Certified Pilates Instructor Guide

Where Should I Start?

The best place to begin depends on your background and goals!

If you’re new to teaching movement, this course lays the foundation. You’ll learn essential biomechanics, cueing strategies, and body mechanics to help clients move better.

Want to focus on mat-based Pilates? Start here! You’ll learn fundamental exercises, progressions, and modifications for all skill levels.

If you’re drawn to equipment-based Pilates, Reformer 1 is your best bet. This course covers beginner exercises, setup, safety, and cueing.

No matter your path, you’ll gain the tools to teach and inspire others confidently.

What Are the Certification Options?

Balanced Body offers flexible certification tracks depending on how deep you want to go:

Learn Pilates fundamentals and bodyweight exercises for teaching group or private mat classes.

Specialize in Reformer-based workouts, mastering one of the most widely used Pilates apparatuses.

Combine both for a well-rounded foundation in Pilates instruction.

Train on ALL major Pilates equipment (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, Barrels) for ultimate expertise.

Each path helps you grow as an instructor—start where it feels right for you!

Does Taking a Module Mean I’m Certified?

Not yet!
Completing a module is just the first step. You’ll also need to finish:

Deepen your understanding by experiencing the exercises in your own body.

Watch experienced instructors to learn cueing, sequencing, and corrections.

Gain hands-on experience working with real clients.

Demonstrate your skills to become officially certified!

Teacher Training is not just about knowing the exercises—it’s about learning how to teach them effectively!

Can I Start Teaching After Taking a Module?

Yes! But you’ll be student teaching 
as you work toward full certification.


Practice teaching is key to developing confidence, refining your cueing, and understanding different bodies. Your required student teaching hours will prepare you for success in your final test-out.

You don’t have to be perfect to start—teaching is a skill that grows with experience!

What is Independent Work, 
and Why is It Important?

Independent work bridges the gap between training and becoming a skilled instructor. It includes:

Deepen your understanding by experiencing the exercises in your own body.

Watch experienced instructors to learn cueing, sequencing, and corrections.

The best way to learn 
is by doing!

You can study the manual all day long, 
but real learning happens when you 
start teaching.

Is the Mentor Program Included in Certification?

No, this program is optional, but it’s one of the best ways to accelerate your learning!

Why join ALIGN’s Mentor Program?

Get real-time feedback from
experienced instructors.


Feel supported throughout
your certification journey.


Build confidence before your test-out.

BONUS: All mentor hours count toward your required independent work!

What Are the Benefits of the Mentor Program?

A weekend of training is just the beginning—mastery takes practice, mentorship, and guidance.

(Austin & Houston 
coming soon!) 
Work hands-on with
expert instructors.

Get live online mentorship
from anywhere.

400+ classes, workshops & deep dives for ongoing learning.

With mentorship, you’ll never feel stuck or alone on your journey to certification!

Can I Join the Mentor Program

if I Don’t Live in Austin?

Absolutely!

We offer three flexible options to fit your lifestyle:

In-person mentorship
(Austin & Houston 
coming soon!)

Live, interactive online mentorship.

400+ classes, workshops
& deep dives.

Wherever you are, we’ve got a way
to support your success!

How Does Balanced Body Compare
to Other Certification Programs?

Balanced Body is one of the most respected Pilates training programs worldwide, blending Pilates tradition with modern movement science.

What makes us different?

Taught since 2006, with thousands of successful graduates.

Train at your own pace with a mix of in-person and online options.

We don’t force a single teaching style—we help you develop your own unique voice as an instructor.

It’s not just about certification—

it’s about setting you up for a 
fulfilling, long-term career.

What Are the Costs of Certification?

Investing in your Pilates education is an investment in your future. Below is an estimate of certification costs:

Certification Costs

$2,500-$3,000

$2,500-$3,000

$4,400- $4,800

$5,675-$6,250

(includes all equipment)

Additional Costs

$0 if a member of our
ALIGN Mentor Program,
or per class fee elsewhere

Free with our Mentor Program
or paid depending on studio arrangement

$66-$200 per month

(optional but recommended)

Early Bird Pricing is available for all our Modules. Register 30 days before the module and the EBP will automatically apply and checkout.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Name*
I am interested in:*
Untitled*

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Becoming a Pilates instructor isn’t just about learning exercises—it’s about:

Moving smarter in your own body


Helping others feel stronger
& more confident


Building a career that supports
your lifestyle & well-being

If you love intelligent movement, self-care, and community, this journey is for you!

To Enroll:

Follow us to stay in the know!