YMCA Level 3 Diploma in Instructing Pilates Studio Reformer

Pilates Qualification

Just which pilates qualification to pick, can be a daunting prospect. When I first started out – trying to find a Pilates teacher training school was a nightmare.  There were loads of schools out there ranging from being really cheap to really expensive. Some were a few hours and some were over a few years…others (South Devon College etc) expected you to have other fitness qualifications before even starting the level 3 course! Others offered a bewildering number of gym, yoga, PIYO, HIT, aerobic fitness qualifications add ons! How on earth are you supposed to know what qualification it is that you need???

No 1.    What Pilates Qualification do I need?

The most sought after Pilates certified qualification that most gyms / fitness centres will ask for is a LEVEL 3 DIPLOMA IN TEACHING PILATES.  In particular the YMCA qualification. Saying that I know some of the more expensive (very)  training schools might not offer that exact qualification, however they do carry the name behind them, like Stott Pilates.   But it really depends on where you want to work and whether or not you’ll have to get a certain type of qualification. The above qualification is probably the safest route to go down. 

Just ensure it is a Pilate ‘certification’ at the conclusion of your teacher training. You wouldn’t want to go through all that expense to get a worthless pice of paper that wasn’t worth the paper it was printed on!.

So now that you know WHAT qualification you need….

YMCA Level 3 Diploma in Instructing Pilates Studio Reformer

No 2.  How much should I expect to Pay for a Pilates Instructor certification?

Again they range from £1000 right up to the top end, which I’m not sure about, but I do believe they are in the thousands. My advice is to go for the best that YOU can afford even if it’s a little bit of a stretch.  If you go for the cheapest you’re not necessarily going to get the best deal for your money. The more skin you have in the game – in other words – the more you have paid to do something the more effort you will put into doing it. Until you know you’re going to fall madly in love with teaching Pilates and doing it for the rest of your life – invest the best you can now, without needing to rob a bank and then spend a year or two becoming more experienced AND then look to converting your qualification. Many of the more expensive training providers (like Body Control) do offer conversion courses and this way you’ll know for sure that it will be worth the investment.

No 3.   How many Practical Days do I get?

The third thing is how many practical days do you get?  I’ve seen some 6 practical day courses and then again for those that are doing the longer courses you’ll have a lot more practical hours. The Level 3 Diploma wants you to be able to teach the Classical Routine.  The Classical (vs the Contemporary) which are the original 34 exercises that Joseph Pilates came up with and they’re taught in a set order.  Baring in mind he was teaching gymnasts and ballet dancers so they are quite advanced movements. And I assure you the average Jo Bloggs or Mrs Miggins that comes in off the street with a hip replacement and arthritis are not going to be able to do them. (We know this because we actually run our own Pilates studio.- Elite Pilates Services) So how will YOU know how to create safe and effective lesson plans if all you have in your tool box are the 34 exercises (albeit with a few modifications)? 

There are some courses that offer ONLY the Classical and there are some courses that offer some extra exercises. We have actually created another workbook with over 35 BONUS exercises so that you have more to work from, thus ensuring you can be safe with the people that come through your door and they’ll come back because you’re not expecting them to fling their legs over their head on their first visit to you (unless they really want to of course!).   So with us you get the 34 exercises + an extra 35 exercises.   We certainly aren’t happy with any of our trainee teachers walking away with just the 34 Original Exercises, hence we created an extra manual, which has been approved by YMCA. You will be more than able to confidently instruct group fitness classes.

NO 4.  LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION

So you’ll have the cost of your course AND travel expenses to look at, especially if you’re planning on travelling.  I did my training in Southampton, which meant I had to travel up there and pay for accommodation every time I went.  Not only the accommodation but don’t forget you have to eat while you’re there too! So not only was it the financial cost of the course and the financial cost of accommodation and food, which could quite easily add another £500 on top of the course fee,  but it’s a cost from a point of TIME, which is something you’ll NEVER get back.  It was a 3 hour car journey there and a 3 hour journey back, if I was lucky!

No 5.   Learn From Someone that Does What You Want to Do

Is the place where you’re going to do your learning actually doing what you want to do and do they specialise in teaching PILATES and not every other gym qualification on the market?  In other words ……  If you were going to learn how to drive a Ferrari (oooh I’d love too!) – would you go to a specialist driving school or a place that showed you how to drive cars and tractors?  Bearing in mind how much a Ferrari costs… I know which one I’d go for! Has the training provider you’re looking at got first hand experience working in the industry, running their own studio and facing all the challenges good and bad, that comes with it, so that they can TEACH YOU…. ….not just about Pilates, but the challenges you’ll have in terms of medical restrictions when dealing with clients and also about running a business too.  Learn from someone who has done it themselves and made all the mistakes.  This will save YOU money, time and energy and something I wish I had thought about when I started! (yes I had 6000 flyers printed, which are still sat in my garage! LOL) There are a few schools out there that also run their own studios.  They are the ones you should be looking at.

NO 6.  What / Who or is  or was – REPS  

AKA Register of Exercise Professionals and they are recognised WORLD WIDE! Those on this list have gone through an approval process and have been certified as meeting the national standard expected of training providers and they regularly undergo quality assurance checks. You can find us on the REPS register and you will also receive 20 points when you complete your qualification with us.

No 7.  TRUST IN YOURSELF

This is one thing I live by.   There are times when I need to make a decision and I’m sitting on the fence. There’s usually only one thing left to do and that’s to go within and see how I really FEEL about it. YOUR OWN GUT FEELING will lead you in the right direction.  TRUST IT. I remember Oprah Winfrey once said on TV “don’t ever ignore your gut.  Your instinct will save your life”.

YMCA Level 3 Diploma in Instructing Pilates Studio Reformer

And whilst choosing a Pilates Training provider is not a life or death situation, if you are like me, you want to make sure you get the best for your money and you want to make sure that you’ll enjoy it and be fully supported all the way.   Your gut will already tell you which schools don’t fit for you and which ones do.  We may or may not be a fit for you, but hopefully the information in this post will give you some guidance about how to find the right school for you.

I do hope that you have have an amazing journey with Pilates (and teaching Pilates) and enjoy the satisfaction of helping people that it brings.   Not to mention that we get to do what we love as a “JOB” and create a business around a life that we love.

Lots of love from Newton Abbot 

Tanja x

Read my other Blog Post How Do I Become a Pilates Teacher

Pilates Reformer Classes in Torquay

Experience · Reformer Pilates Classes in Torquay, Devon Elite Reformer Studio offers Beginner-Friendly Reformer Classes with Pilates Tower! We offer levels to suit beginners & those who might want a more dynamic yet controlled workout.

You will love these reformer classes, love the variety and energy the teachers bring. Each reformer and Tower class is engaging and leaves you feeling stronger and refreshed. The Pilates Reformer and Tower is an amazing way to build strength, flexibility & mobility.

Highly recommend trying the intro offer and you will soon be hooked too.

The booking App is easy to use, lots of classes available so you don’t miss out with times to suit everyone. Open 7 days a week from 6 am till late.

Reformer Classes Torquay (Torbay)

Elite Reformer Pilates  studio close to Torquay (Torbay). Elite reformer offfer a mix of reformer and tower classes catering to all abilities. Our reformer classes are designed for all levels and abilities, helping to boost your strength and flexibility as well as improving your strength. We are more than just a reformer pilates class!

Join us for reformer classes that blend traditional pilates with modern fitness. Try our reformer classes for real results. Start toning and restoring your body today for real results with reformer classes.

Torquay reformer classes is your go-to reformer studio for high energy reformer classes. Elite reformer pilates, offer a wide range of reformer pilates in the Torbay / Torquay area.

Reformer Pilates Class Torquay

Elite reformer studio is technically in Newton Abbot – St Marychurch rd on the Torquay (Torbay) border. Indeed most of our Elite Reformer students come from the Torquay (Torbay) area.

YMCA Level 3 Diploma in Instructing Pilates Studio Reformer

REFORMER PILATES CLASSES TORQUAY  

tel:   01803 445436 

St Marychurch Road Newton Abbot TQ12 4SE

Reformer Class at Elite Reformer Studio Torquay (Torbay)

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Elite Best Reformer Pilates Classes Torquay Newton Abbot 

Elite Pilates offer numerous REFORMER PILATES CLASSES including reformer Tower . Our reformer machines have attached Towers to their reformer machines, adding variety and versatility to your workout.

Joseph Pilates invented the reformer which he originally called the Universal reformer, due to the fact that it could be used for numerous movements (Joseph Pilates didn’t regard his system as exercises – but movements and movement patterns). Opening soon in Wales.

Is the Reformer Advanced Pilates?

Most people wrongly consider the reformer to be advanced-level stuff. Nothing could be further from the truth. His intention was to use the reformer to perfect his movements, and this was translated over to the mat work.

 Pilates and Fitness Classes in the Newton Abbot Torquay Area

Try Elites reformer classes – much better than the gym based fitness class

8 state-of-the-art reformer pilates machines all dedicated to helping you transform your mind, body, and soul. Our expert, qualified teachers lead lots of classes weekly.

Elite Reformer Classes – Where hard Work and Effort are Rewarded

 What Are The Benefits of Reformer Pilates ?

The benefits of Reformer Pilates Class include improved flexibility,  and stronger abdominals, back, hip, and glute muscles.

Pilates Reformer Classes Explained

The Pilates reformer is an amazing piece of apparatus like no other, which helps you to find length and space in the body while the springs are under tension.

A Pilates Reformer is a large piece of specialised equipment with straps, springs and gears. It is capable of both challenging you but also assisting you in the exercises.

REFORMER PILATES CLASSES TORQUAY

tel:   01803 445436 

St Marychurch Road Newton Abbot TQ12 4SE

Working soon in Wales – Reformer and Tower classes for the Llandrindod Wells area

Reformer Torquay Reformer Pilates Classes Newton Abbot

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Elite Pilates Small Equipment Course UK

Elite Pilates Teacher Training now offer their small equipment for mat work Pilates Course.. If you are a Pilates instructor then enrich and expand your knowledge, and get a better understanding of how by using small equipment – such as : bands, stability balls, hand weights , the roller and the magic circle cam make your classes so much more fun, challenging or more accessible for your clients.

Whilst the course is aimed at those already qualified as Pilates Teachers, anyone with an interest in Pilates would benefit from the small equipment course

Pilates small equipment course.

What You Will Learn on a Small Equipment Course

• The Range of small equipment available for use in your mat classes
• benefits of using certain equipment
• pros and cons of small equipment use
• precautions, considerations of using small equipment
• modirfications, addaptations and variations.

How Will I Be Assessed on the Pilates Small Equipment Course

There is no formal exam or assessment per se. We will ensure you understand  and continuously assess you as we progress through the course.

Pilates small equipment certificate

Pilates Small Equipment Certification Course

Elite Pilates studio offers Pilates small equipment course here in Devon UK. At present we offer on-line course but will soon be offering face to face small equipment courses. The small equipment will include pilates bands, rollers, stability balls, hand weights, weighted balls, magic circles and blocks. All the small equipment you may have used in your own pilates mat classes. Ypu will learn how to safely incude theses small pieces of pilates equipment into your classes to make them more fun and exciting The use of small pilates equipment can add to the fun of pilates mat classes.

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Reformer Teacher Training

ELITE Reformer Teacher Training UK

Where is Elite Reformer Training Studio?

Elite Reformer Teacher Training are based here in the South West of England in the UK. More specofically we are in Newton Abbot on the Torquay border South Devon.

Elite run YMCA Pilates Teacher Training Level 3 Diplomas in Mat based Pilates, and offer their very own Reformer Teacher Training Certificate Course, her in the SouthWest of England UK.

The reformer training course is aimed at those already qualified in Pilates awho wish to attend an in person reformer course to further their knowledge and vary their repertoir.

Learn the basics to teach reformer intensive exercises, variations and modifications of the reformer exercises.

 

Reformer Teacher Training

Reformer Certification 2 Day Course

Elite run a 2 day extensive course that guides you through a wide variety of reformer exercises. Along the way we offer detailed insights into the aim and purpose behind each of the reformer exercises.

 

Reformer Teacher Training

Pilates Reformer Machine For Sale UK

Set Pilates Equipment

If you are interested in purchasing a reformer & tower, we HIGHLY RECOMMEND Set Pilates.   The service is amazing and machines are made to a very high standard.   We are exceptionally pleased with our equipment and this all comes at a very reasonable and affordable price!!!!  If you’re interested you can check out SET PILATES here >>> https://www.setpilates.com

*** Please note we have no connection to Set Pilates other than as a very satisfied customer – we are ‘that’ impressed with their machines AND their after-sales service is second to none***

Set Pilates are all about creating the best Pilates experience – painless, efficient, robust, and they will not break the bank!

Reformer Pilates Machine For Sale

Reformers, and other Pilates studio equipment for sale – affordable, reliable, and high quality!

Buy a Set-Pilates Reformer Machine UK

If you are interested to buy a Reformer Pilates Machine and wish to discover more, just visit their site here

Set-Pilates are UK based  their after sales service and spare parts team will give you ease of mind!

Set Pilates

+44 7311 126676

Pilates Reformer Machine For Sale UK

Reformer Pilates

Joseph Pilates invented the reformer which he originally called the Universal reformer, due to the fact that it could be used for numerous movements (Joseph Pilates didn’t regard his system as exercises – but movements and movement patterns).

Apparently, whilst held captive during the First World War and often confined to their ‘bunks’, it was designed around a bed and bunk bed. His original versions were made mainly of wood, where very heavy and sturdy. The more modern designed can be very light weight, and run very smoothly on rollers.

Reformer Pilates Fitness Class in Newton Abbot

The resistance is controlled via springs and differing resistance. This means that for certain movements a heavy resistance may make that particular movements very challenging. Yet the same resistance used on another movement may mean it is made easier. Conversely a light resistance does not mean that the movement is going to be easy, quite the reverse. And with other movements a light resistance may make one part of the movement hard and another part easier ( I am loathe to use the term ‘easier’ or ‘hard’ but for simplicity sake I have chosen to . Either way you will improve on your fitness.

Reformer Pilates

The carriage of the reformer moves on the reformer ‘bed’ via rollers that help it cast along. When springs are attached it is possible, if you use incorrect technique, for the carriage to ‘slam’ against the reformer bad, making aloud noise. Apparently Joseph Pilates would come rushing out of his office to berate the poor soul who was clashing the reformer about. Not sure if it as because of their incorrect technique, style or lack of control, or because of the damage this could cause to the reformer!

Ropes have handles attached and can be used with the hands or feet. On the other side of the carriage a foot bay again may be used for the feet or the hands. This adds to the repertoire of movements that may be performed on the Universal reformer.

Most people wrongly consider the reformer to be advanced level stuff. Nothing could be further from the truth. His intention was to use the reformer to perfect his movements, and this was translated over to the mat work.

reformer pilates

Apparently Joseph was trained in martial arts, one concept from martial arts training that Pilates certainly adopted was the concept that ‘less is more’. He believed that it was more beneficial to perform a few correct movements with strict style – with focus and concentration, than to mindlessly perform numerous repetitions.

The reformer is considered more dynamic and stricter / harder than mat based work. For this reason again he preferred few repetitions on the reformer. Similar to his mat based work of 34 exercises, Pilates had a set ‘routine’ on the reformer. Grouped into series of movements that were linked. Each movement built of the previous and flowed together, complimenting the last series of movements.

Reformer Pilates

Similar to the mat work, his movements have changed and been added to and adjusted over the years. The order likewise has and can be adopted and changed around to suit the needs of the client.

The reformer is a marvelous addition to your Pilates mat based work – but it is not meant to replace the mat work its aim is to go hand in hand and compliment the mat based movements. It is tempting to view the reformer as ‘superior’ to mat work – but it truly is not, they genuinely complement each other. Your mat work will be enhanced due to using the Joseph Pilates Universal reformer.

Reformer Pilates reformer Fitness classes in Newton Abbot

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 Pilates Reformer Teacher Training UK Course

tel 01803 445436

Newton Abbot Devon

Elite Pilates Reformer Teacher Training offers the best reformer training  face2face. We much prefer face-to-face contact – it is the best way to learn! Elite are based in Newton Abbot near Torquay South Devon UK

This post is about just one particular Joseph Pilates classic reformer movement – the Down Stretch on the reformer machine.

Here is a quick demonstration of just one way this exercise may be performed. Remember “there is no right, or wrong – just different”.

Reformer Pilates Down Stretch

Here we see the foot bar set low for this machine. This alters the challenge on the body when performing the movement. It tends to be a bit ‘tamer’ on the lower back and the glutes and hamstrings, than when the footbar is set higher.

Reformer Teacher Training UK by ELITE Pilates Reformer Studio

Reformer Pilates Classes Newton Abbot

‘Here is Sebastian teaching an advancement of the Down stretch, the Long Stretch, video taken on one of Elite Reformer Training Courses

Find Me Tanja FOY (Elite Reformer Pilates Teacher Training) Here for  Reformer Classes in the Newton Abbot area of South Devon

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Reformer Teacher Training

Reformer Teacher Training relates to Pilates teacher training on the Reformer machine it also includes the Reformer Tower machine. try Elite Reformer Training course for the best reformer training in the UK. Not all reformer teacher training courses in the UK are the same. Elite Reformer Studio training offers the best reformer training better than the gym. England UK South West Devon Reformer training qualification cettificate certification instrructor teacher course cornwall devon Bodmin Exeterreformer machine reformer training course qualification ymca