Pilates teacher

You could do a course like a Level 3 Diploma in Mat Pilates or Level 3 Diploma in Teaching Pilates.

It may be useful if you have a background in teaching exercise.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• Level 2 or 3 fitness qualification

More Information

• funding advice
• search for courses

You could start by doing an exercise and fitness advanced apprenticeship then move into pilates teaching after completing further training.

Entry requirements

Employers will set their own entry requirements.

More Information

• guide to apprenticeships

You can train as a teacher by doing pilates courses with a specialist training provider or a professional body.

Professional and industry bodies

You can join organisations like the Pilates Teacher Association or the Pilates Foundation for professional development and training opportunities.

You'll need:

• knowledge of teaching classes
• customer service skills
• the ability to work on your own
• leadership skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks, as you may be working with children and vulnerable adults
• have insurance

Your day-to-day duties may include:

• work with clients, either one-to-one or in groups
• design exercise routines that suit the needs and abilities of each client
• teach exercises which are done on a mat, or using specialist equipment
• break down exercises and helping clients to establish good movement skills using exercises to target problem areas
• keep detailed client records
• maintain your own level of fitness through regular practice
• teach clients to handle stress and to relax more easily

You could work at a fitness centre or in a creative studio.