Full Comprehensive Pilates Certification
Full Comprehensive Pilates Certification
Our studio adheres to the principles of Authentic Pilates, also known as Contrology, developed by Joseph Pilates.
The 600 Hours Full Comprehensive Pilates Certification
Our studio adheres to the principles of Authentic Pilates, also known as Contrology, developed by Joseph Pilates. We encourage creative learning and open-minded discussions, as we share ideas with a collective understanding of the Classical work. Inspired by many, not just one, lineage.
Our Pilates Teacher Training programmes are designed to provide you with an extensive understanding of the practice, helping you to become a knowledgeable and confident teacher. We value inclusivity and support, ensuring that our community is diverse and welcoming to all.
Our studio is fully equipped with Legacy Apparatus. Our school and training qualifications are recognised by the NPCP, the National Pilates Certification Program. This was formerly known as the Pilates Method Alliance certification and is the largest verification body of Pilates Teachers in the world. Our graduates are invited to sit this separate exam, which only certifies comprehensively trained Pilates Teachers by approved training centres. Our Teacher Training school is insured under the Balen’s Insurance Scheme, and all apprentices have access to the student teacher affiliate plan.
Prerequisites for Classical Pilates Teacher Training
With Stacey Smith Pilates at Trent Park Pilates
Our Classical Pilates Teacher Training Program is a rigorous and immersive pathway designed for aspiring instructors who are committed to the authentic Pilates method. To maintain the highest standards of classical training, applicants must meet the following prerequisites before beginning the full program.
Minimum Entry Requirements:
Minimum of 25 Hours of Classical Pilates Training
Applicants must complete a minimum of 25 hours of Classical Pilates sessions—privates, semi-privates, or classes—with a qualified classical instructor. This ensures familiarity with the key principles, exercises, and terminology of the original method as developed by Joseph Pilates.Consistent Personal Practice
You should have an established personal Pilates practice (minimum 6 months preferred) and a strong commitment to the classical repertoire. While perfection is not expected, a working knowledge of foundational exercises is essential.Physical Readiness
Applicants must be in good physical condition and able to perform beginner to intermediate mat and apparatus exercises. Any injuries or conditions must be disclosed prior to application, and medical clearance may be required.Passion for the Method
We are looking for individuals who are passionate about the Pilates system and dedicated to preserving its integrity. A genuine interest in learning, teaching, and embodying the work is key.Interview and Movement Assessment
Selected applicants will be invited for a short interview and movement assessment to ensure the programme is a good fit for their goals and abilities
The Full Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training course is a 600-hour course, which can take 12 /14 months or more.
You will learn the classical exercises on
The Reformer
The Mat
The Cadillac
The Barrels
Small Barrel, Spine Corrector, and Ladder Barrel
The Chairs
High Chair & Wunda Chair
The Pedi Pole
You will become a member of our Apprentice community, with the option of remaining part of the community as a TPP graduate, upon completion of the course.
Theory
The History of Pilates
Anatomy modules - Online Learning Hub
1 x Case Study
Year-long access to all manuals and the anatomy learning hub
5 x 1:1s
Weekly Apprentice class
Monthly in-house workshops from internal and external experts in the field of Pilates
Comprehensive assessment from a Level 3 assessor
Certificate of achievement from Trent Park Pilates
Green room lectures on subjects that complement Pilates and your training
Become part of a supportive Apprentice community
Open studio policy to practise and observe at no additional charge
10% discount on all classes and 1:1s
Before accessing our certification programmes, you must have at least 20 hours of experience in Pilates.
You must attend at least one class at Trent Park Pilates to meet with the teachers and other Apprentices.
Exam Criteria
Assessor Stacey Smith
You will be asked to teach the Full Classical repertoire of the:
Reformer & Mat
Plus, demonstrate these exercises in your own body
You will be asked to teach various exercises as chosen by the assessor :
• Chairs
• Spine Corrector
• Cadillac
• Ladder Barrel
• Pedi Pole (where relevant)
In the course, you will learn how to and be examined on:
In-depth Knowledge of the Pilates System – Understand and apply the principles, methodology, and philosophy of Pilates to guide clients effectively.
Clear Communication of Exercise Intentions – Accurately convey the purpose, mechanics, and benefits of each exercise to enhance client understanding and execution.
Mastery of Exercise Order and Setup – Ensure correct sequencing and proper equipment adjustments to optimise effectiveness and flow.
Client Assessment Skills – Evaluate individual abilities, limitations, and goals to tailor sessions appropriately.
Expertise in Modifications and Adaptations– Offer variations to accommodate different skill levels, injuries, or physical conditions.
Seamless Transitions and Progressions – Maintain fluidity between exercises while safely advancing or regressing movements based on the client's needs.
Body Awareness and Positioning– Observe and analyse movement patterns to provide targeted corrections and guidance.
Effective Use of Imagery and Cueing – Enhance client engagement and understanding through verbal, visual, and tactile cues.
Confident Hands-on Approach – Use appropriate physical guidance to support alignment and technique while ensuring client comfort.
Dynamic Voice and Presence – Maintain an engaging, authoritative, and motivating tone throughout the session.
Session Flow and Client Engagement – Create a seamless, energetic experience that fosters progress, enjoyment, and a deeper connection to the practice.
Teacher Training Syllabus
I. Introduction to Pilates
- History and principles of Pilates
- Key concepts: control, centering, concentration, precision, breath, and flow
- Responsibilities and ethical considerations
- Communication skills and client interaction
II. Anatomy and Physiology Online Learning
- Anatomy relevant to Pilates exercises
- Common injuries and modifications for clients with specific conditions
III. Teaching Methodology In Person
- Developing effective class plans
- Group teaching vs. private sessions
- Verbal cueing
- Overview of the apparatus
- Safety and usage guidelines
- Detailed study of fundamental exercises on the apparatus
- Cueing, spotting, and hands-on adjustments
- Teaching practice
- Effective communication and cueing
- Progressive teaching methods
- Creating well-structured Pilates sessions
- Adapting workouts for different levels and client needs
IV. Practical Experience and Observation
- Teaching practice sessions
- Observing experienced instructors in real-class settings
- Personal practice
- Attendance to classes and 1:1 sessions
V. Assessments
- Demonstrating the Reformer and Mat repertoire independently
- Teaching full Pilates sessions (Beginner, Intermediate & Advanced)
- Demonstration of exercise knowledge and cueing
- Health and safety of clients and apparatus
- Multiple-choice and short-answer questions
- In-person written paper based on online learning content
- One written case study based on a client taught during training
VI. Certification
Successful completion of all course components leads to certification as a Full Comprehensive Pilates Teacher.
Your tutor, Stacey,
has been teaching Pilates, Movement, and Dance for over 20 years and is a third-generation Classical Pilates teacher, studying her Full Comp Certification under the tutelage and guidance of Olga Tamara APE and Brooke Siler.
Continued professional and personal development courses include "The 10 Week Challenge" with Kathy Ross Nash, and most recently has studied under Blossom Leilani Crawford for "Before The 100 - Kathy Grant."
In addition to this, Stacey has attended London workshops with Brooke Siler, Miguel Silva, Gloria Gasper,i and Sandy Shimoda and taken classes with other leaders in the industry, including Eric Carlovich, Amy Alpers, Benjamin Degenhardt, Sarita Allen, Jillian Hessel, and Dana Santi.
Stacey has an unwavering dedication to continued learning and growth, and her overriding aim is to support and nurture you throughout your Teacher Training journey to help you achieve your Pilates Teacher Training goals.
To date, Stacey has trained and supported well over 50 Apprentices to help them achieve their teacher training goals. These Apprentices have all gone on to successfully work in the industry, as either freelance teachers in the UK and abroad, studio owners, or huge influencers on the Instagram scene!
Her most recent achievement is qualifying as a Sports Masseuse and Soft Tissue therapist. This brings even more experience to the teaching of Anatomy and how to handle your clients, and how to read the client’s body.
Stacey is currently finishing her Level 3 Award in Education and Assessing.
Other qualifications include Level 3 Mat with Future Fit, Reformer and Mat with Stott/YMCA, BA Hons in Contemporary Dance from Middlesex University, Total Barre Instructor with Stott, and a Ballet and Modern dance teacher with the ISTD
FAQs
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Fully Comprehensive:
You will become a Full Comprehensive teacher on all of the Pilates apparatus. Currently, the Pilates industry is unregulated; however, the Classical Pilates industry recognises the qualification and the level of training each student has gone through to qualify. The quality of the courses is exceptional, with in-depth study of the Pilates method taught by experienced teachers. Classical Pilates teachers have all gone through 600 hours of rigorous training. The Full Comprehensive course is the gold seal of Pilates teacher training and is recognised throughout the industry.
MatReformer and Mat only Course:
You will become a Reformer or Mat Teacher. Currently, the Pilates industry is unregulated; however, the Pilates industry recognises the qualification and the level of training each student has gone through to qualify. The quality of the courses is exceptional, with in-depth study of the Pilates method taught by experienced teachers. Classical Pilates teachers have all gone through 100’s of hours of rigorous training.
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No, as above. Your qualification is recognised by the NPCP, the National Pilates Certification Program in the US. This was formerly known as the Pilates Method Alliance certification and is the largest verification body of Pilates Teachers in the world. Our graduates are invited to sit this separate exam, which only certifies comprehensively trained Pilates Teachers.
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No. A level 3 qualification aligns itself more with the fitness industry. This style of Pilates is often what you will find at your local gym or leisure centre.
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Classical Pilates is the original and authentic style of Pilates created by Joseph Pilates and originally called ’Contrology’ Contemporary Pilates has deviated away from the original method and created new adaptations or new interpretations of the original work.
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Trent Park Pilates is dedicated to teaching Classical Pilates, the true works of Joseph Pilates in a fully supportive, inclusive and nurturing teaching environment.
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Yes. There are many Pilates studios out there looking for apparatus and Mat teachers, plus with a Mat qualification you can set up anywhere. Many apprentices invest in equipment and set up their own studios whilst others go and work for studios. Finishing any of our courses does not guarantee you work.
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The best way is to book into classes with different teachers and studios and discover what style you love the most and could see yourself teaching.
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Before joining the Full Comprehensive you need to have at least 20 hours of Classical Pilates experience and at least 10 hours before the Mat course and 15 before the Reformer.
Cost £4,800
Training Dates
- Beginner: 5th – 8th February
- Intermediate: 3rd – 7th June
- Advanced: 5th – 11th October
Contact Us
Ready to take the next step? Connect with our team to explore classes, private sessions, or any questions you need resolved. We’re here to streamline your experience and help you find the right fit from day one. Reach out, and let’s get you moving with confidence.