Physical Mind Pilates Certification

The Physical Mind Institute, based in New York City, offers evolved Pilates teaching training, as well as classes for the public. Evolved Pilates training includes exercises and movement patterns that go beyond what Joseph Pilates taught before his death in 1968, including standing and circular pattern exercises, and use of the Tye4 Pilates harness. You can choose from several different types of teacher training and certification from the Physical Mind.

Matwork

Become certified to teach Physical Mind Pilates matwork by completing three weekend workshops covering classical Pilates mat exercises, standing Pilates exercises and circular evolved Pilates movements. The standing and circular exercises are unique to the Physical Mind training program; they are not taught through other Pilates certification programs. You can preview some of these movements in Joan Breibart's book, "Standing Pilates: Strengthen and Tone Your Body Wherever You Are." Prior to attending the matwork certification workshops, you should take 20 mat classes and view the Bodymind Matwork video.

Apparatus

Physical Mind apparatus certification covers teacher training on the Pilates chair, Cadillac and reformer machines. You will learn all of the exercises on each piece of apparatus, relevant anatomy cues, contraindications and modifications. Plan on attending 40 hours of lectures over the course of 10 weeks. During that period, you must also complete 60 hours of homework, 48 observation hours and 75 assistant teaching hours. Prior to attending the apparatus certification workshops, you should take 10 apparatus private sessions, attend the first of the matwork weekend workshops, and view the Physical Mind Cadillac Choreography video.

Continuing Education

To keep your certification with Physical Mind current, you must obtain continuing education credits every two years. Mat teachers need one credit, while apparatus teachers need two credits. If you are certified in both, two credits are sufficient every two years. You can choose from advanced workshops, Pilates related workshops and home study courses with titles like Nutrition 101, Pilates for Golf, Gait Analysis and Osteoporosis protocols.

Considerations

Check with prospective employers regarding their hiring requirements before you commit to a Pilates certification program. Some studios hire only trainers with a certification from a specific school of Pilates. Health clubs may require CPR certification, an American Council on Exercise group exercise certification or a third-party certification from the Pilates Method Alliance.