Certified Pilates Instructor Training
Ready to turn your passion for Pilates into a career?
Realise Your Dream of Being a Pilates Instructor
Would you like a job that offers you personal fulfilment, a flexible schedule, and the opportunity to help others achieve their fitness goals? Then let us train you to become a pilates instructor.
Our comprehensive training programs equip you with the essential knowledge and practical skills you need to successfully lead others in the studio. They’ll give you a deep understanding of the pilates method, covering everything from anatomy and exercises to effective teaching techniques.
Once qualified, you’ll be able to pursue a wide range of teaching opportunities in pilates studios, fitness centres, and even private practice in Australia and overseas.
6 Steps To Becoming a Pilates Instructor
Step 1: Get Experience as a Student (Mat, Reformer, Studio)
Before you teach it, live it. Immerse yourself in Pilates as a student and explore Mat, Reformer and studio classes to understand different styles, cues and class dynamics. This builds body awareness, confidence and a deeper appreciation for the method from both the client and instructor perspective.
Step 2: Choose Your Pathway (Group Fitness, Studio, Clinical)
Decide what kind of instructor you want to become. Are you drawn to high-energy group reformer classes, boutique studio environments, or a more clinical, rehab-focused setting? Your pathway will guide the type of qualification you need and shape your future career opportunities.
Step 3: Select an Accredited Training Provider (What to Look For)
Choose a reputable, accredited provider that offers comprehensive course content, experienced educators and hands-on learning. Look for programs that balance anatomy, programming, cueing and practical teaching experience, not just theory. Support, mentorship and real-world readiness matter.
Step 4: Complete Your Course, Practical Hours and Assessments
Commit to the process. You’ll complete coursework, log practical teaching hours and pass assessments to demonstrate your knowledge and skills. This is where your confidence grows and your teaching style starts to take shape.
Step 5: Get Insurance, Registration and Your First Job
Once qualified, secure your insurance and any required registrations. Then it’s time to step into the studio. Apply for roles, connect with studios that align with your values, and start building your experience as a confident, capable instructor.
Pilates Instructor Courses
Our Pilates Instructor Training is all about empowering you to teach engaging group classes from day one! With hands-on experience and practical tools, you’ll feel confident and excited to step into the studio and share your passion.
COURSE OVERVIEW
You’ll leave the course ready to teach having covered a range of topics including:
• Effective cueing: Deliver clear, inclusive instructions that empower everyone.
• Prop Power: Master the basics and learn how to use Pilates props like a pro.
• Modifications: Adapt exercises for pre/post-natal clients, injuries and all fitness levels.
• Class plans & flow: Plan engaging, seamless 45 and 60-minutes sequences and use music to enhance the vibe.
• Anatomy Apply key anatomy and physiology concepts to boost your teaching.
• Group teaching: Format and teach classes for small and large groups with ease
• Teaching confidence: Beat imposter syndrome and find your unique voice.
• Career growth: Learn how to secure work and grow in the Pilates industry.
• and MORE!
Pilates Courses Breakdown
All our trainings blend online and in-person sessions for a comprehensive learning experience. You’ll need to complete your online coursework before attending the in-person sessions, ensuring you’re fully prepared to dive in. You’ll have 6 weeks to tackle your online content via the Upstate Learning Hub and 6 months to complete your observing and practice teaching logbook.
Potential Career Paths and Job Opportunities
Once you have fully qualified to be a pilates instructor, the world is your oyster!
Many graduate launch their new careers in boutique Pilates studios, large fitness centres and gyms. Others choose to work in allied health settings alongside physios, osteos and other practitioners, while some run virtual classes or on-demand programs online.
Once you’ve got a few years of teaching experience under your belt, you can move into some more specialist areas. This includes:
- Pre- and post-natal clients
- Rehabilitation and injury management
- Athletic performance and strength conditioning
- Active ageing and seniors programming
- High-intensity reformer or athletic-style classes
Is Pilates Instructing Right for You?
At its core, teaching Pilates is about inspiring people to connect with their bodies and building strength safely. So, if you love being active, helping others, and want a career that combines creativity with well-being, then it may well be ideal for you.
At Upstate, we’ll help you develop the skills, knowledge and confidence you need to step into the studio and make a real impact. All you need to do is commit to getting started.
PILATES TRAINING PROGRAMS
Choose your adventure with 3 course program options:
Mat Pilates Certification
Cost: $2,300 Early Bird / $2,500 Standard
*Book with a bestie to receive $100 off each!
Reformer Pilates Certification
Cost: $2,300 Early Bird / $2,500 Standard
*Book with a bestie to receive $100 off each!
Mat + Reformer Certification
Cost: $4,300 Early Bird / $4,500 Standard
*Book with a bestie to receive $100 off each!
Start Your New Pilates Career
Our expert-led sessions and supportive environment will have you bringing your energy and skills to every class. If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate training experience that sets you apart, Upstate is your go-to choice!
FAQ
How long does it take to get certified?
In just a few months, you’ll be certified and ready to rock! You’ll have 6 weeks to complete your online modules (~20 hours), 6 months to complete your logbook hours of observation, practice teaching (broken down below), and then show up for your face-to-face training and boom, you’re done!
The following logbook hours will be required:
• Mat Only:
– 10 hours observing classes
– 30 hours practice teaching
– 30 hours self-practice
• Reformer Only:
– 10 hours observing classes
– 30 hours practice teaching
– 30 hours self-practice
• Mat and Reformer Combined:
– 20 hours observing classes
– 60 hours practice teaching
– 60 hours self-practice
I’m new to Pilates. Is this course for me?
Absolutely! Whether you’ve never done Pilates or already know your Teaser from your Hundreds, we’ll take you from the basics to expert in no time.
What do I need to get started?
Just your excitement for Pilates! No experience required, come ready to learn and we’ll handle the rest.
How do I earn my certification?
Easy! Complete your in-person training, log your practice hours and pass a practical assessment, we will be here supporting you the whole way through! We ensure you have the real-world experience and knowledge to confidently start teaching after graduation.
Is the course accredited?
You bet! Our course is fully accredited through AUSactive with 20 CECs, which means your certification is recognized across the fitness industry. You’ll be good to go in studios, gyms or your own private classes.
How will Upstate support me?
We’ve got your back! Our expert instructors and step-by-step curriculum make sure you feel supported every step of the way. Participants will also have access to a WhatsApp channel to ask questions and chat with classmates.
Do I need a Reformer for training?
Nope! We provide all the gear you’ll need. From Mats to Reformers and props, we’ve got you covered.
Can my current Pilates classes count toward my hours?
Absolutely! If you’re already hitting the studio 1 month before your training, we’ll count those hours toward your training. We’re all about making things easy for you.
Does the course cover anatomy and physiology?
Yes and we make it engaging! You’ll learn the basics of anatomy and physiology, focusing on how it directly applies to Pilates movements and teaching.
What certification do I get?
You’ll be certified to teach both Reformer or Mat Pilates or Both! Opening up tons of opportunities in studios, gyms or even privately.
Do I need government accreditation to teach?
Nope! Your Upstate certification has you covered, but check local rules just to be sure.
What do I need to be a Pilates Instructor?
To practice as a yoga instructor, you will need to hold a recognised training qualification, current first aid certification, and professional insurance. It is also a good idea to become a member of bodies like Pilates Association Australia (PAA) or AUSactive.
Do you offer payment plans?
Split your payments into two or three easy installments. The first payment secures your spot.
Can I take individual courses?
For sure! You can go for the full combo of Reformer and Mat, or choose whichever course fits your Pilates passion!
How much time do I need to commit?
You’ll also need to complete approximately 20 hours of online learning before the face-to-face sessions.
Then the Reformer + Mat course will require 10 days of in-person training spread over four weekends, or two full weeks. Individual courses (Mat or Reformer only) take half that time.
Finally, you’ll have 6 months to complete you logbook of:
• Mat Only:
– 10 hours observing classes
– 30 hours practice teaching
– 30 hours self-practice
• Reformer Only:
– 10 hours observing classes
– 30 hours practice teaching
– 30 hours self-practice
• Mat and Reformer Combined:
– 20 hours observing classes
– 60 hours practice teaching
– 60 hours self-practice
Do you offer student discounts?
Yes! Flash your valid student ID and score a sweet 10% discount on course prices.
I have another question...
No problem! Send us an email at pilates@upstatestudios.com.au and we’ll be happy to help.
What's the fine print?
How Much Does a Pilates Instructor Earn?
In Australia, most pilates instructors charge between $35 and $70 an hour. Therefore, if you run classes on a full-time basis, you could earn between $75,000 to $95,000. However, this depends on where you are based and what type of pilates you are teaching.
