How exciting! You are thinking about becoming a Pilates instructor because you are health conscious and want to help people gain health and wellness. But it’s completely overwhelming with the number of training programs that are out there these days, it’s difficult to sort out which ones are going to offer you the skills and training you need to become a skilled (and profitable) Pilates instructor. Here are a few tips to help you along on your journey. Find an accredited program. The Pilates Method Alliance International Accreditation for Pilates (ITTAP)program provides accreditation for Pilates train-the-trainer programs in the areas of Mat, Reformer, and Comprehensive. The PMA is a third-party, self-regulating group of Pilates professionals who are committed to advancing the Pilates industry. The ITTAP was designed to provide standards of excellence for Pilates teacher training programs world-wide. The ITTAP was developed with input from Pilates leaders, PMA board members and other professionals in the industry, who indicated that a simpler, more inclusive process was needed. The accreditation is aligned with the PMA’s goal to further professionalize the industry and support the continued education of Pilates for future generations of students. Pilates teacher training programs that meet the ITTAP criteria are recognized as quality programs committed to upholding the educational principles of Pilates. Find a Qualified Teacher Trainer. Learning from an experienced teacher will help you in so many ways. Your teacher should have extensive knowledge of the industry in addition to the curriculum being taught. You want someone who has worked with clients of all ages and backgrounds. Someone who knows how to deal with teaching a client with injuries. Someone who will nurture and support you along your journey. Become a part of a learning community. It doesn’t feel great to be out there on your own. You need to connect with a community of people who can help you get clients, consult on complex cases and help with new programming. Look for programs that value becoming a part of a greater community of Pilates professionals. Nurture 1:1 connection with your teacher Teachers can help you take overwhelming amounts of information and help you make sense of it. They also offer the essential mentoring you need move from the classroom to the real world as a successful Pilates instructor. Search for a program that values in-depth mentoring and relationships with an experienced teacher. Make sure it meets your needs in terms of time and cost. Looking to take the next step? Click here! www.pilatesbydena.com