CERTIFICATION

Training with a Pilates Method Alliance (PMA) recognized school is required to become a certified Pilates instructor.

Starting with Level 1 Reformer, a student can then go on to become certified in Levels 2 and 3. Each are individual trainings with practice hour requirements and tests.

The same is true for Mat Pilates. Three levels, three trainings, three practice hours requirements, and three tests. Then there are trainings for the Cadillac/Tower, the Pilates Chair, Barrels and Anatomy.

To become Comprehensively Certified (all levels | all equipment) takes years of training, study, practice, testing, and financial investment.

After that an instructor can choose to specialize or broaden his/her skills through continuing eduction.

CECs (continuing education credits) are required by all the major schools to keep one’s certification status.

Ruth’s education: Comprehensive certification in all Pilates equipment at all levels - Reformer, Tower/Cadillac, Chair, Barrels, Mat and Anatomy - through Balanced Body and IMX. Trained in the Classical Pilates technique.  Additional training includes Pilates for neurological conditions, pre and post natal, spinal conditions including scoliosis, stenosis, and disc issues, osteoporosis, and active aging.

What My Clients Have Taught Me

Knowing how to teach Pilates is the starting point. Knowing how to modify movements for various physical requirements is where things becoming all together different.

I’ve worked with clients recovering from many types of surgeries including hip, knee and shoulder replacements, and from spinal surgery. Clients have come to me after years of not being able to kneel or get off the floor confidently. Pilates has helped them regain mobility and stability.

Clients who have or are recovering from cancer often require tailored movement modifications but they all progress with Pilates.

Spinal surgery clients often have reduced range of motion when they start Pilates. What a joy it is to see them moving safely and comfortably in ways they had not been able to do so for a long time.

Joe Pilates felt that his system of movement (which he called Contrology) was for every body. My experience working with amazing clients is that he was right.