Qualifications
Training
In 2005 I trained with Body Control Pilates. I chose Body Control because they have an excellent history for safety. They pride themselves on taking there teachers through vigorous training methods, looking closely at anatomy and sitting a three hour anatomy exam along with a theory paper on Pilates.
Before you can become a teacher assessments have to be passed and only then can you move on to supervised teaching. This can be a long process at the end of the supervision 2 teacher trainers have to ‘sign you off’.
Once fully qualified each teacher including teacher trainer's have to continue their training throughout the year, constantly developing themselves and new skills.
UK National Standard
Until recently anyone interested in exercise could potentially become a Pilates teacher. However, in the summer of 2005, the UK became the first country to introduce a National Standard. This governs and ensures that Pilates teachers have the relevant skills and knowledge to teach matwork classes. Skills Active and the Register of Exercise Professionals endorse this Standard, and are recognised by the European Heath and Fitness Association.
Body Control, the largest facilitator of Pilates in Europe, was the first association and provider of Pilates to be approved against the standard.