How much does Pilates training cost?

1. Introduction to Pilates training

What is the Pilates method?

The Pilates method is a set of muscle strengthening, movement control, and breathing exercises designed to improve posture and balance. Created by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, this discipline focuses on toning deep muscles, particularly those in the center of the body, also known as the "core." Through precise and controlled exercises, it provides a gentle yet intense workout, accessible to beginners and experienced athletes alike.

Practiced both on the floor (matwork) and with specific equipment such as the Reformer or Cadillac, Pilates promotes better body awareness. It helps prevent injuries, improves breathing, and reduces stress. It's a comprehensive method that appeals to a wide range of audiences, from seniors to professional athletes.

Why train in Pilates?

Training in Pilates offers multiple benefits, both personally and professionally. For wellness and fitness enthusiasts, it's an opportunity to deepen their practice while understanding the scientific and anatomical foundations behind each movement. The training allows students to correct common mistakes and perform movements safely.

On the professional front, becoming a certified Pilates coach or instructor opens up a variety of opportunities. As Pilates is a rapidly expanding discipline, there are numerous job opportunities in gyms, specialized studios, as well as at home or in businesses. Additionally, the training offers the opportunity to offer a variety of classes to meet the specific needs of practitioners.

2. The different types of Pilates training

Matwork Level 1, 2 and 3

Matwork is the foundation of Pilates training. It involves exercises performed on the floor on a mat, without the use of heavy equipment. This training is often offered in three levels:

• Matwork Level 1 : It covers the fundamental principles of Pilates and basic exercises accessible to beginners.
• Matwork Level 2 : it deepens the technique by integrating more complex variations and advanced sequences.
• Matwork Level 3 : Intended for professionals, this level offers complete mastery of Matwork and allows you to teach students of all levels.

A Matwork certification is often a prerequisite for accessing Pilates specializations, particularly with equipment or for specific audiences.

Pilates training with small equipment

Pilates with small equipment allows you to add diversity to traditional exercises. This training includes the use of accessories such as balls, resistance bands, foam rollers, and Pilates circles. These tools allow you to vary the intensity of movements, adapt sessions to different levels, and add a fun element to the workout.

This type of training is ideal for teachers looking to offer varied and more personalized classes. Incorporating small pieces of equipment into the practice allows students to progress more easily and target specific muscles while maintaining the fundamental principles of Pilates.

Pilates training for specific audiences

Some trainers choose to specialize in teaching Pilates for specific audiences . These trainings allow the exercises to be adapted to the specific needs of certain categories of practitioners, such as:

• Seniors: Adapted exercises to improve balance and prevent osteoporosis.
• Athletes: specific strengthening depending on the sport practiced.
• People suffering from chronic pain: relief of tension and improvement of posture.

Having this specialization allows you to broaden your audience and better meet the expectations of practitioners with physical constraints or objectives different from traditional courses.

Pilates training for pregnant women

Prenatal and postnatal Pilates is a highly sought-after specialty. This training allows for sessions to be tailored to the different stages of pregnancy and postpartum. It places particular emphasis on strengthening the pelvic floor, breathing, and posture to help expectant mothers better navigate their pregnancy.

This training is also intended for healthcare professionals and sports coaches who wish to safely support pregnant women. Prenatal Pilates is an excellent way to gently strengthen muscles while relieving back and joint tension.

Online vs. In-Person Pilates Training

With the rise of digital technology, it's now possible to take Pilates courses online . This option is often more flexible and affordable, allowing students to learn at their own pace from home. However, the lack of direct supervision can make learning more complex, and some certifications require in-person sessions to validate practical skills.

Conversely, in-person training offers more rigorous supervision and immediate feedback from instructors on movement execution. It also allows for hands-on practice and faster certification. The choice between these two formats depends on the student's goals and personal constraints.

3. What training is required to become a Pilates teacher?

The necessary skills

Becoming a Pilates instructor requires specific skills. In addition to mastering the movements and principles of Pilates, a good instructor must have an excellent understanding of the anatomy and biomechanics of the human body. This allows them to adapt exercises to the needs and abilities of each student.

A good teacher must also demonstrate pedagogy and patience, as they must explain each movement precisely and guide their students as they progress. Finally, good observation skills are essential to correct postures and avoid injuries.

Recognized certifications

To work as a Pilates instructor, it is recommended to complete a certification course . Some of the most reputable courses include:

• STOTT Pilates : a modern approach integrating rehabilitation principles.
• Balanced Body : internationally recognized training with a wide range of specializations.
• Pilates Method Alliance : Certification requiring hours of practice and rigorous exams.

Opting for a recognized certification guarantees better employability and allows you to teach in specialized studios or independently.

Complete and specialized courses

For in-depth training, some choose to pursue a comprehensive curriculum, ranging from Matwork to machines like the Reformer, Cadillac, and Chair. These courses are often longer and more expensive, but they offer comprehensive expertise and open up numerous career opportunities.

Other trainers prefer to start with a specialization (e.g., therapeutic Pilates, prenatal) before broadening their skills. Regardless of the path chosen, it is essential to carefully select your training organization to ensure quality certification.

4. How much does Pilates training cost?

Training prices according to level

The cost of Pilates training varies depending on the level of learning. Basic courses, such as Matwork Level 1 , are often the most accessible, with prices ranging from €600 to €1,500 . These courses provide the fundamentals of Pilates and are a gateway for future instructors.

As you progress to higher levels, such as Matwork Level 2 and 3 , the fees increase, typically reaching €1,500 to €3,500 . These in-depth courses are essential for professionals looking to diversify their teaching and master more advanced techniques.

Prices for online and face-to-face training

Online Pilates courses are often less expensive than in-person courses. An online course can cost between €300 and €1,500 , depending on the content and the organization providing it. It offers the advantage of flexibility, allowing you to learn at your own pace while reducing travel costs.

On the other hand, face-to-face training is more expensive, with prices ranging from €1,000 to €5,000 . These trainings are more expensive due to the costs associated with infrastructure, instructors, and equipment used. However, they offer direct interaction with trainers and supervised practice, which significantly improves the learning of postures and corrections.

Why is Pilates expensive?

The price of Pilates training may seem high, but several factors justify this cost. First, this discipline is based on in-depth knowledge of anatomy , physiology and movement, requiring rigorous training provided by expert professionals.

Additionally, training centers often need to invest in specific equipment (Reformers, Cadillacs, balls, elastic bands) and suitable premises. Finally, the certifications obtained after training are crucial for legal teaching and ensuring quality instruction, which also impacts the overall price.

5. Possible financing for Pilates training

Employer support

If you already work in the sports or wellness sector, your employer may cover all or part of the cost of your Pilates training. This is primarily done through the company's skills development plan , which funds training to improve employees' qualifications.

To benefit from this support, it is important to discuss with your employer and demonstrate the benefit this training would have for the company, particularly by expanding the course offering to customers.

Assistance from Pôle Emploi and OPCO

Job seekers can benefit from financial aid to pursue certified Pilates training . Pôle Emploi can provide subsidies or partially finance the training through Individual Training Assistance (AIF). It is advisable to consult your Pôle Emploi advisor to check the eligibility of the chosen training.

In addition, Skills Operators (OPCO) , which support vocational training for self-employed workers and employees, can also cover training costs. It is recommended to contact the OPCO associated with your sector of activity.

Use of the CPF (Personal Training Account)

The Personal Training Account (CPF) is an excellent option for financing Pilates training. All employees automatically contribute to this account throughout their career, accumulating entitlements that can be used to pursue qualifying training.

Training organizations offering support through the CPF must be Qualiopi certified and meet government quality requirements. To find out if a Pilates training course is eligible, simply visit the official MonCompteFormation platform.

6. How much does a Pilates license cost?

Licensing and Certification: Distinctions and Costs

It's important not to confuse a Pilates license with a certification. A certification is earned after successfully completing a training course, while a license is generally a right to use a specific method or label.

Some training organizations require instructors to pay an annual license to use their teaching under a registered trademark, which can be an additional cost of €100 to €500 per year , depending on the organization.

Requirements for teaching Pilates

Teaching Pilates requires more than just training; it also requires compliance with applicable legal requirements. All instructors must be certified and insured in order to legally offer classes.

Additionally, it is often recommended to join a professional federation or organization to benefit from official recognition and appropriate professional insurance. Some certifications also require continuing education to maintain certified instructor status.

7. What training is required to teach Pilates classes?

Essential diplomas and certifications

To teach **Pilates**, it is essential to complete a **recognized training** and obtain a certificate attesting to your skills. Unlike some disciplines, there is no specific state diploma for Pilates, but several private certifications are widely recognized on the market. The main ones are those issued by organizations such as **STOTT Pilates, BASI Pilates, Polestar Pilates, and Peak Pilates**.

Obtaining certification typically involves completing a comprehensive curriculum that includes learning the fundamental principles of Pilates, posture adjustment techniques, and the use of small equipment. The final exam often includes a practical and theoretical assessment to ensure the future instructor has the necessary knowledge to teach the discipline safely.

Pilates schools and training organizations

There are many specialized training organizations offering Pilates teacher training programs. Some of the most reputable schools include STOTT Pilates, Body Balance, Peak Pilates, BASI Pilates, and Polestar Pilates. These institutes offer training tailored to different levels, from beginners to advanced.

Choosing a training organization will depend on several criteria, such as location, cost of training, and recognition of the **certificate obtained** on the professional market. It is recommended to choose a school that offers a comprehensive program that includes theoretical courses, practical sessions, and personalized support.

8. How much does a Pilates session cost?

Individual lessons vs. group lessons

The **price of a Pilates session** can vary significantly depending on various factors. The main difference is whether the class is **individual** or **group**. Private sessions, which allow for personalized support, are generally more expensive than group classes.

On average, a private Pilates class can cost between €50 and €100, depending on the instructor's experience and the region. However, a group class is more affordable, with rates ranging from €10 to €30 per session. Specialized studios often offer memberships that allow for discounted rates for multiple sessions.

Average price of a session by region

Pilates class prices vary considerably depending on the region and type of facility. In larger cities like Paris, Lyon, or Marseille, classes are generally more expensive than in the provinces due to the higher cost of living and demand.

For example, in Paris, a private class can cost over €80, while in the provinces, private sessions can be found for around €50. Pilates studios located in urban areas often offer packages or class cards that allow for lower prices.

How much does a Pilates ball cost?

The Pilates ball, also known as a Swiss ball, is an essential accessory for certain exercises. Its price depends on several factors, such as the brand, quality, and size of the ball. Basic models generally cost between €10 and €20, while higher-quality balls designed for intensive use can cost as much as €40 to €60.

For regular exercisers and instructors, it's recommended to invest in a ball made with anti-burst material, which offers greater durability and safety. Some brands, such as Togu and Sissel, offer high-end models tailored to the needs of professionals.

9. Conclusion: choosing your Pilates training carefully

The selection criteria

Choosing a Pilates course should not be taken lightly. Several criteria must be considered to ensure quality training and professional recognition. Key factors to consider include:

• The **reputation of the training organization** and the recognition of its certificate.
• The **educational content** and its relevance to your professional objectives.
• The learning method (**face-to-face or online**) depending on your personal constraints.
• The **cost of training** and financing options.
• Career opportunities and specialization opportunities.

Choosing a training school with **experienced and recognized trainers** is essential to ensure the acquisition of the skills necessary to teach Pilates.

The Best Pilates Training Schools

To become a competent and recognized Pilates instructor, it is recommended to choose training from a reputable organization. Some of the best training schools in France and abroad include:

- **STOTT Pilates**, which offers complete programs combining theory and practice. - **BASI Pilates**, specializing in teaching classical and contemporary Pilates. - **Polestar Pilates**, recognized for its therapeutic approach. - **Peak Pilates**, offering courses adapted to different levels of practice.

Training at one of these institutions allows you to acquire solid skills and obtain a **recognized certification** in the field of Pilates, thus facilitating integration into the job market.