EDUCATION

Pilates Aotearoa is dedicated to recognising and maintaining professional standards for the Pilates industry, which starts with the education providers who teach the foundational level trainings and ongoing professional development opportunities –  giving Pilates professionals confidence that their qualifications are aligned with industry best practise and are credible.

Find a Foundational Pilates Education Programme

Are you looking to become a Pilates teacher / instructor? The following teacher trainer courses have been audited and verified as meeting Pilates Aotearoa’s criteria for foundational courses:

Fitness Pilates Instructor – Matwork

Core Pilates and Mind: Mat Pilates Instructor Training

This comprehensive course will give you all the tools you need to become an exceptional teacher. Our training covers Anatomy, repertoire, class planning and more, so that you walk away confident and ready to teach.

Course Length: 20 hours (in person practical and assessment)

Course Dates 2025:
Anatomy in Motion & Guide to Pilates Course
Saturday 2nd Aug, 11:30AM – 5:00PM

Sunday 3rd Aug, 10:30AM – 1:30PM

Mat Pilates Course
Sunday 3rd Aug, 1:30pm-5:00pm
Saturday 9th Aug, 10:30am-1:30pm
Sunday 10th Aug, 10:30am-5:00pm

This course covers: • Skeletal System • Major Muscles • Safety & Posture • Movement Terms • Pilates Principals • Benefits of Pilates • Cueing Formula • Exercises • Programming • Assessments

Find out more, and sign up here

Fitness Pilates Instructor – Reformer

Core Pilates and Mind: Reformer Pilates Instructor Training

This comprehensive course focuses on developing a strong proficiency on the Reformer, completion of the course will set students up with a strong foundational knowledge in theory, exercises and skill to become an exceptional teacher. Our training covers Anatomy, repertoire, class planning and more, so that you walk away confident and ready to teach.

Course Length: 20 hours (in person practical and assessment)

Course Dates 2025:
Anatomy in Motion & Guide to Pilates Course
Saturday 2nd Aug, 11:30AM – 5:00PM

Sunday 3rd Aug, 10:30AM – 1:30PM

Reformer Pilates Course
Saturday 23rd Aug, 11:30AM – 5:00PM
Sunday 24th Aug, 10:30AM – 5:00PM
Saturday 30th Aug, 11:30AM – 5:00PM
Sunday 31st Aug, 10:30AM – 5:00PM

This course covers: • Skeletal System • Major Muscles • Safety & Posture • Movement Terms • Pilates Principals • Benefits of Pilates • Cueing Formula • Exercises • Programming • Assessments

Find out more, and sign up here

Fusion Movement Co: Reformer Level #1 Course

Transform your teaching with our dynamic 70-hour Reformer Pilates Course, thoughtfully designed to combine the flexibility of online learning with the invaluable experience of in-person training. Perfect for anyone ready to elevate their expertise, this course offers a deep dive into over 70 exercises and progressions on the Reformer.

What’s Included:

– The Origins of Pilates: Explore its history and evolution.
– Classic Meets Contemporary: Learn how our course blends classical, contemporary, and dynamic Reformer Pilates.
– Core Concepts: Defining Pilates, pelvic tilt, abdominal activation, and spring tensions.
– Practical Skills: Breathing techniques, cues, health and safety, and room setup.
– Exercise Mastery: Safely instruct over 70 Reformer Pilates exercises, including progressions, regressions, and supplementary equipment.
– Two-Day In-Person Workshop with Lead Educator Sam Burch (contact us for dates).

Find out more, and sign up here

Fitness Pilates Instructor – Matwork & Reformer

Train Me Education: Mat & Reformer Teacher Training

Module 1: history of pilates
Dive into the roots of Pilates, where we’ll explore how Joseph Pilates shaped this life-changing method. From early beginnings to its evolution into a modern fitness phenomenon, you’ll learn what makes Pilates timelessly relevant. Get ready to geek out on some fitness history, Pilates-style!

Module 2: anatomy and physiology of pilates
Explore the human body like never before! This module breaks down muscles, and how they work together to make your Pilates moves smooth and effective. Educating you on teaching the bodies in front of you, no matter the condition. We’ll keep it fun, but by the end, you’ll be fluent in the language of anatomy.

Module 3: supporting & educating your clients
Master the art of teaching with compassion, guidance, and motivation, while empowering and educating your client all at one. We’ll dive into techniques to keep your clients engaged and reaching their goals, while balancing support with education. Let’s build that trust and expertise that gets you jobs!

Module 4: health, safety and welfare
Safety first, always! In this module, you’ll learn the essentials of keeping your classes safe, your clients healthy, and welfare at the forefront. It’s all about building a foundation that’s as strong as your clients’ core.

Module 5: exercise principles
Let’s break down the ‘why’ behind the moves! This module covers the key principles that make the functional movements of Pilates so effective, from cluster programming to resistance training. You’ll walk away with the secret sauce behind building strong, effective workouts.

Module 6: pre & post natal (incl. specific populations)
Learn how to cater to clients from all walks of life – from expecting mums to seniors and everyone in between. You’ll learn how to tailor your Pilates programming to meet the specific needs of diverse populations, keeping workouts safe and fun for all – without the nervous Sweats.

Module 7: client growth
It’s not just about the workout – it’s about progress! Learn how to help your clients set, smash, and exceed their goals while keeping their motivation high. This module will teach you to become their biggest cheerleader and toughest coach all in one.

Module 8: programming 101
Crafting a killer class is an art! This module teaches you how to create engaging, balanced, and challenging Pilates sessions that keep clients sweating, smiling, and coming back for more. It’s all about the perfect mix of flow and fire teamed with proper form and purpose.

Module 9: pre, during & post teaching
Your class begins before it even starts. This module covers how to set you up for success, keep the energy going during busy periods, and finish strong every class – with tips to make sure it’s a long career that’s smooth sailing!

Module 10: professional development
Keep growing, keep learning! In this module, you’ll discover how to stay on top of your game in the ever-evolving Pilates industry. From asking for a raise to applying for jobs in the first place, we’ll show you how to get that foot in the door AND keep sharpening your skills and growing as a pro once you do.

Find out more, and sign up here

Habitat HQ: Pilates Matwork & Reformer Instructor Course - Level 1

The Matwork & Reformer Instructor Course isn’t your typical training—it’s your ticket to creating badass, results-driven classes clients can’t get enough of. You’ll master the techniques of mat and Reformer Pilates while learning how to lead with confidence, personality, and purpose. With hands-on workshops and flexible online learning, we’ll give you everything you need to earn your certification and stand out as a rebel in a world of cookie-cutter instructors. It’s time to teach Pilates your way.

Find out more, and sign up here

If you are interested registering your Pilates Education course, please visit the education provider page.

Continuing Professional Development

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is compulsory for individual Pilates Aotearoa members.

Engaging in professional development not only ensures competency and best practice by upskilling, it also fosters a sense of community, helps maintain motivation and safeguards standards for the Pilates profession.

Members' CPD Requirements

Pilates Aotearoa individual members are required to earn 10 CPD points per year – a surplus of 10 points may be carried over to the following registration year, and a deficit of up to -10 points is allowed.

Any Pilates Aotearoa masterclass earns 1CPD – these are found in the members’ area. Current verified CPD courses and workshops are listed here.

Verified CPD points will be allocated according to the following, rounded to the nearest .5 point:

– 5 CPD points for 4 hours assessed learning
– 10 CPD points for 8 hours assessed learning – up to a maximum of 15 CPDs
– 2 CPD points for 4 hours non-assessed learning
– 4 CPD points for 8 hours non-assessed learning

A maximum of 50% of the CPD allowance may be taken on non-verified CPD, which is allocated at the non-assessed learning rate. Examples of non-verified CPD could be:

  • 1:1 mentoring;
  • Pilates specific workshops, lectures, conferences;
  • any structured self-directed learning relevant to scope of practise;
  • research based Pilates specific activities;
  • non-Pilates based courses or non-Pilates specific content that is relevant to the practise of or business of Pilates;
  • group education sessions with other Pilates professionals may count as long as the primary focus is education and up-skilling;

Completion of a foundational Pilates education programme from the providers listed above earns 20 CPD, meaning students who complete any of these programmes are not required to earn CPD points in the first two years of their registration with Pilates Aotearoa. 

Please note that First Aid & Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) do not earn CPD points.

If you are an education provider interested verifying your courses as Continuing Professional Development, please visit the education provider page.

Find Verified CPD

The following courses have been assessed and verified as Continuing Professional Development:

mvm. Pilates: Jumpboard Workshop

Add to your teaching skill set to keep your classes fresh and interesting creating new challenges for your current clientele. This is a 3 hour, interactive workshop focusing on the benefits and considerations when utilising the jumpboard. It will include a full masterclass showing how to integrate it into a group session as well as repertoire, theory and peer teaching.

Learning Outcomes:
1. Why we incorporate jumpboard into pilates
2. Jumping for bone density, osteoporosis and the ageing populations
3. Is jumpboard cardio?
4. Jumpboard positions and their purpose
5. How to regress and progress in each position
6. How to incorporate jumpboard into a group setting

This course will earn you 2CPD points                                Find out more and book here

mvm. Pilates: Layering and Programming

Master flow and efficiency in a class setting while setting both client and teacher up for success. By the end of this workshop we want you to understand the key components of designing a class including exercise choices, equipment considerations, layering and sequencing.

Learning Outcomes:
– Class programming/considerations
– Class layering/Exercise layering 
– Efficient class cueing 
– Strategies on creating continuous flow
– How to use spring resistance for effective teaching
– How to set yourself apart as a group reformer instructor 

This course will earn you 2CPD points                                Find out more and book here

Polestar Pilates: Align the World Tour

The Align the World Tour with Dr. Brent Anderson is a transformative series of discourses and movement experiences aimed at Pilates teachers, movement practitioners, healthcare practitioners, movement enthusiasts, health-minded community leaders, and movement thought leaders.

Dr. Anderson will lead sessions based on his acclaimed book, “The Principles of Movement”, exploring the profound impact of physical, emotional, and spiritual alignment. He will teach you the 5 Principles of Movement while our master educators will guide you through exceptional movement experiences. Movement Science and Mental Alignment come together in this real life experience that will change your life forever.

Learning Outcomes: 
– Maximizing efficiency in movement to achieve more with less effort.
– Designing systems and processes for sustainable practice in physical wellness.
– Developing and maintaining positive habits through mindful movement.
– How alignment affects our daily lives
– The science of bio tensegrity
– The power of mental attention
– The power of proprioception and interception for joyful movement
– How to find health and joy while bringing the world physical, emotional and spiritual alignment

This course takes place on 10/05/2025 and will earn you 6 CPD points.  Find out more and book here

Polestar Pilates: Introduction to Pathokinesiology

Dr. Brent Anderson will illuminate how the foundations of movement science and facilitation underpin the physiotherapy profession, applying to all physiotherapist specialisations. With a spotlight on Anderson’s new textbook, “Principles of Movement,” he will delve into how each principle enhances movement experiences, instructional techniques, assessment methods, therapeutic interventions and most importantly, outcomes.

Focus will be placed on ways to improve patients’ internal awareness and independence, restore function and enhance performance.
Polestar’s Introduction to Pathokinesiology is a dynamic course designed for movement practitioners and health professionals who are eager to deepen their expertise. This program bridges the gap between current understanding knowledge of human physiology and the complexities of human pathology, laying a foundation in these essential sciences.

What sets this course apart is its seamless integration of these fundamentals with the science of kinesiology, offering a holistic and practical approach. This course aims to underscore the importance of all physiotherapist becoming “movement experts”.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES
Following this 8-hour introductory course on Pathokinesiology, participants will:
– Gain an understanding of the complexity of the human being and the multiple factors that influence the ability to participate fully in life.
– Understand how knowledge in kinesiology, physiology and pathology combined can enhance the practitioner’s ability to assess, design, treat and modify their client’s unique program.
– Experience movement from the perspective of human physiological systems, with a focus on neuro-musculoskeletal, integumentary, respiratory, and cardiovascular.
– Be introduced to the physiological system’s ability to maintain homeostasis.
– Correlate how human movement can influence homeostatic regulation.

This course takes place on 9/05/2025 and will earn you 4 CPD points.  Find out more and book here

The SO Academy by SO Fitness: Pre & Post Natal Pilates

Detailed & comprehensive course to help existing Pilates Instructor work in the Pre & post natal space covering materials on:

-How to identify doming and abdominal separation.
-Anatomical & Physiological changes.
-Pelvic Floor Muscle Anatomy, Activation & Strengthening pre & post natal.
-Diastesis Recti management
-Contraindicated Pilates moves for all phases of pregnancy.
-Key moves to focus on in each trimesters
-How to adapt for pregnancy in a group or private class setting.
-Usage of a pregnancy barrel in third trimester
-Breakdown of 50+ Pilates Reformer Moves that are beneficial for Pregnancy & Post Natal population.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES
· Understand the anatomical and physiological changes in women pre- and post-natal.
· Comfortable identifying and adapting reformer exercises suitable for women in stages of their pregnancy or post.
· To be able to design a pre- and post-natal reformer class.
· To be able to adapt on the spot for a pregnant client in a group class setting.
· To be able to guide a client from the start of their pregnancy to post-natal safely and professionally.
· To be able to teach complex reformer exercises with the proper health & safety prevention + screenings.
· Co-caring with midwives, physiotherapists, ob/gyns and general practitioners throughout a pregnancy period.

This course is self-paced, and will earn you 5 CPD points.  Find out more and book here

The SO Academy by SO Fitness: Reformer Jumpboard Essentials

Workshop teaching existing Pilates Instructors on Jumpboard (addition to the jumpboard) which includes:

– Detailed guidance on how to cue and teach jumpboard moves. 
– 4 sequences with full use of the jumpboard. 
– 2 sample class plans with downloadable PDF.
– Full beakdown on the purpose of the jumpboard. 

EXPECTED OUTCOMES
To be able to understand the specific uses and advantages of the Reformer Jumpboard.
To be able to incorporate Pilates Jumpboard into teaching routines in privates, semi-private and group.
To be able to utilise the Jumpboard efficiently to achieve the aim and purpose of the Reformer Jumpboard.
To be able to set up Jumpboard safety for a class.
To be able to teach a full Jumpboard class.
To be able to progress and regress a Jumpboard move to cater to all.

This course is self-paced, and will earn you 3 CPD points.  Find out more and book here

Teach Pilates - Classical Training: Classical Mat 1 Module - Beginners to Intermediate

In the Classical Mat 1 Module you will learn how to teach the beginners to intermediate exercises as described by Joseph Pilates.

This course includes access to Pre-Pilates exercises, an online learning platform with videos how to teach and how to get a deeper understanding what to look for, how to correct, modify and challenge in each exercise. You will also earn how to use your voice, touch and cues to become a confident and safety-focused teacher. This course can be taken with a Live Seminar (in person) or as Distance-Learning (start when you like), both routes have mentor meetings, apprentice classes (at extra cost) and two exams (included in the price), written and practical.

Learning Outcomes:
– You will learn how to teach the Classical Mat 1 exercises with confidence and correct knowledge.
– You will learn the techniques, cues and flow of the beginners to intermediate exercises of the Classical order.
– You will learn how to modify, adapt and challenge exercises tailored to your clients according to their abilities.

This course will earn you 15 CPD points.  Find out more and book here

Teach Pilates - Classical Training: Classical Reformer 1 Module - Beginners to Intermediate

In the Classical Reformer 1 Module you will learn how to teach the beginners to intermediate Reformer exercises as described by Joseph Pilates.

This course includes access to Pre-Pilates exercises, an online learning platform with videos how to teach and how to get a deeper understanding what to look for, how to correct, modify and challenge in each Reformer exercise. You will also earn how to use your voice, touch and cues to become a confident and safety focused teacher.

This course can be taken with a Live Seminar (in person) or as Distance-Learning (start when you like). Your logged hours consist of a Seminar or Self-Learning via Online Platform, observation hours, self-practise, teaching, taking classes, mentoring hours and exams (written and practical). A certificate of completion is issued on successful completion of all required hours.

Learning Outcomes:
– how to teach the Classical Reformer 1 exercises with confidence and correct knowledge.
– the order of the Classical Reformer how this was set up by Joseph Pilates
– the techniques, cues and flow of the beginners to intermediate exercises of the Classical order.
– how to modify, adapt and challenge exercises tailored to your clients according to their abilities.
– how to set up and adjust the Universal Reformer with its individual components.
– the safety features of the Universal Reformer and how to address those for your clients.

This course will earn you 15 CPD points.  Find out more and book here

Upgrade Pilates: Finding the Centre in Contrology

Inspired by Sandy Shimoda’s Contrology Handbook, and backed by learnings from Jay Grimes’ lineage and Sandy, this workshop explores the concepts of the Centre. Together, we’ll explore how the Centre is applied in Contrology to refine your practice, deepen your connection to your body, and enhance the way you move. These learnings are essential for teaching your clients.

Join this workshop to discover the power of Contrology and unlock new potential in your movement journey and the way you teach.

Mat, Reformer and Pilates Method teachers of all levels are welcome.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES
• Develop a clear understanding of the Centre in Contrology and its foundational role in all Pilates movements.
• Refine cueing techniques to guide clients towards more mindful and effective engagement of their Centre.
• Learn how to effectively teach Centre engagement to clients across all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners.
• Deepen your personal understanding and embodiment of Contrology by focusing on the Centre, enhancing your ability to inspire and empower your clients.

This course takes place on 27/03/2025 and will earn you 1 CPD point.  Find out more and book here

Upgrade Pilates: Footwork: From the Ground Up

In this dynamic and interactive session, we will explore the foundation of our Pilates practice: the feet. As our primary point of contact with the ground, the feet play a key role in alignment, stability, and overall movement efficiency.

In classical Pilates, Footwork serves as the cornerstone for starting your Reformer workout. This session is designed for Pilates teachers and Reformer instructors eager to deepen their understanding of Footwork’s significance.

This workshop combines theory, practical exercises, and mindful movement, equipping you with insights to enhance your teaching and personal practice.
Join us to explore how a strong foundation leads to greater movement potential.

Mat, Reformer and Pilates Method teachers of all levels are welcome.
What you’ll need: Reformer, Hand Towel, 10cm firm or spiky ball, Foot Corrector (optional).

EXPECTED OUTCOMES
• Gain a deeper appreciation of the feet as the foundation for alignment, stability, and efficient movement in Pilates.
• Learn the purpose and progression of classical Footwork on the Reformer and its application to overall practice.
• Develop strategies to effectively teach and cue Footwork to students of varying abilities and needs.
• Experience Footwork in your own body to enhance your understanding and inform your teaching.

This course takes place on 3/5/2025, and will earn you 1 CPD point.  Find out more and book here

Upgrade Pilates: Contrology Masterclass - Warming up to The Hundred

Join us for a live interactive masterclass in studio or online, focused on one of the most fundamental and challenging exercises in Pilates—The Hundred. Ever wondered why this exercise is so demanding? This session will help you understand its purpose, refine your technique, and learn how to integrate breath control and endurance, whether you’re new to Pilates or an experienced practitioner.

We’ll break down the key elements of The Hundred, exploring its role as a foundational exercise and how it serves as a powerful tool in your practice. You’ll develop a deeper awareness of its mechanics, improve coordination, and discover how to apply the two-way stretch in Contrology for greater efficiency in all your movements.

This masterclass is open to Mat, Reformer, and Pilates Method teachers of all levels

EXPECTED OUTCOMES
• Deepen your understanding of Contrology principles and how The Hundred is applied within The Method.
• Refine your technique and teaching skills by optimising coordination and movement efficiency for more controlled and effective execution.
• Apply the Two-Way Stretch principle to improve stability, ease, and overall body connection in The Hundred and beyond.
• Learn how to progress, adapt and modify The Hundred to suit different client needs.
• Strengthen your hands-on guidance to help clients connect with their breath, engage their core, and perform The Hundred with greater confidence.

This course takes place on 28/6/2025, and will earn you 1 CPD point.  Find out more and book here