Once you've decided to embark on a Pilates certification, the next step is choosing an organization that will give you the training and support you'll need. There are many factors to consider before you make your choice.
First Impressions
Have you been taking lessons from a certified instructor? You might choose to train with the same organization, or you might love Pilates but want to take a slightly different approach from your teacher. Try out some other teachers and styles before you sign up for a training course.
Location
If you live in New York, you may not have to consider the location of your training and apprenticeship, no matter which certifying organization you choose. If you're in a small town, a city with no training program, or even a foreign country, you'll have to consider travel costs. Will you be able to make one big trip and complete the bulk of your training, or will the school require several visits? What about getting to a certifying studio to complete apprentice hours, if required? Think outside the box: it may be most convenient to travel a long distance and spend all your time living and breathing Pilates for a few weeks, rather than having to drive an hour several times a week to apprentice.
Cost
Calculate the cost of the training course itself, as well as extras like examination fees, materials, private lessons, uniforms, travel and accommodation, and time off work.
Recognition
Some certifications are recognized worldwide, and some are not--if you plan to take your career on the road at some point, make sure you'll be able to get employment and insurance with your certificate.
Classical or Contemporary?
Classical forms of Pilates try to stay as close as possible to Joseph Pilates' original method. They typically use a wide range of apparatus, and teach the apparatus as a unified system. Frequently, they require 500-700 hour apprenticeships, which must be completed under a certified instructor, and they have a stringent examination process. Classically-based schools include Romana's Pilates, Power Pilates, and Peak Pilates.
Contemporary forms use Joseph Pilates' work as a foundation, but supplement and modify it with other movement disciplines, such as physical therapy, yoga, Feldenkrais, Alexander technique, and dance. They may have a strong focus on anatomy and biomechanics. They typically use Pilates equipment which has been modified with bigger dimensions, lighter springs, and greater adjustability than classical apparatus. Some contemporary schools offer certification in mat or Reformer work only. Contemporary schools include Stott Pilates, Polestar Pilates, Physicalmind Institute, and Balanced Body University.
No matter which school you choose, becoming a certified Pilates instructor is a challenging, expensive, and time-consuming journey--but with the right support, it can be fantastically rewarding.
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