PILATES INSTRUCTOR TRAINING IN SEATTLE
Pilates Teacher Training in Seattle
Become An Integral Part Of The Pilates Movement
WE BELIEVE IN
Strength, Balance, and Wellness For All
Whether you’re new to the world of movement or already immersed in fields like dance, yoga, sports, or massage therapy, our program is designed to meet you where you are. We welcome students of all ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds to join our community of passionate learners.
Our comprehensive Pilates teacher training offers an in-depth, personalized learning experience tailored to your unique goals and needs. If you’re ready to transform your love of movement into a fulfilling career, we’re here to guide you—every step of the way.
Our Mission
At Vitality Pilates, we offer our students the intensive study and experience required to tailor the Pilates method to their future clients’ needs. Through an integrative approach, we blend the Pilates method with adaptive applications based on an ever-evolving understanding of the human body and best practices.
“I completed my Pilates teaching certificate with Vitality and I’m so happy that I chose such a warm, welcoming, conscientious, and professional studio to do my training with.”
Why Is Our Program The Best?
We’ve created an in-depth course for anyone passionate about the Pilates method and what it can do for long-term health and wellness. When you sign up for our Pilates instructor training in Seattle, you’ll get:
- In-depth training on the Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, and Wunda Chair to master the foundations of Pilates.
- Comprehensive workshops covering the Ladder Barrel, Spine Corrector, Ped-O-Pull, Foam Roller, and Magic Circle for well-rounded expertise.
- Unlimited studio access at all Vitality Pilates locations for personal practice and teaching preparation.
- Free group classes to deepen your own Pilates practice and refine your teaching skills.
- Extensive study of anatomy and special populations, tailored to the practical application of Pilates principles.
- A contemporary approach to Pilates, rooted in the integrity of Joseph Pilates’ original work.
- Personalized learning experience with small class sizes and a 1:10 instructor-to-student ratio.
- Comprehensive training manuals to support your education and success as an instructor.
- Hands-on teaching opportunities in community classes, giving you valuable real-world experience.
To enroll in our Pilates teacher training program, you must possess a high school diploma or a General Education Development (GED) diploma. You must also complete an in-person interview with our administrative director and complete a minimum of six months of continuous preparatory classes at Vitality Pilates (cost included in tuition).
Which Certification Is Right For You?
COMPREHENSIVE PILATES EQUIPMENT CERTIFICATE
Students have 12 months to complete all coursework and the 450 required hours. The curriculum includes the full spectrum of Pilates Mat, Equipment, and props as well as studies in anatomy and special populations.
This course includes access to all 3 studios for personal practice and teaching. Also included are 75 group classes (a $1,500 value).
PROGRAM HOURS
Personal Practice
75 hours of taking classes
40 hours of practice
25 hours of group class and private lesson observation
3 private lessons
Practice Teaching
150 hours of practice teaching
50 hours of Community Reformer classes
2 lessons observed by a coach
Education
105 hours of training modules
72 hours of training day modules
WEEKLY COMMITMENT
To get the most out of your training, you’ll immerse yourself in roughly 12-15 hours per week of hands-on learning, practice, and teaching.
You’ll have 12 months to complete the program, which includes 450 hours of comprehensive coursework. Dive into the full spectrum of Pilates equipment and props, along with in-depth studies in anatomy, and working with special populations. This rigorous, well-rounded curriculum sets you up for success in a rewarding Pilates career.
EXAMS
Equipment Written Exam – Scheduled: History, Principles, Theory, Anatomy, Special Populations
Equipment Teaching Exams – By Appointment: 30-minute Mat/Props, 50-minute Reformer/Cadillac, 20-minute Chair/Props
Upon successful completion of this program, you’ll earn a Comprehensive Pilates Equipment Certificate.
PILATES MAT CERTIFICATE
Students have 6 months to complete all coursework and the 100 required hours. The Pilates Mat Certificate program includes the full Mat curriculum, Foam Roller, Magic Circle, and Spine Corrector, as well as studies in anatomy and special populations.
This course includes access to all 3 studios for personal practice and teaching. Also included are 20 group classes (a $599 value).
PROGRAM HOURS
Personal Practice
20 hours of taking classes
10 hours of group class and private lesson observation
Practice Teaching
20 hours of practice teaching
20 hours of Community Mat classes
Education
30 hours of training modules
WEEKLY COMMITMENT
In order to fulfill the minimum required hours, students must commit roughly 10 hours per week to their training for the duration of the program.
EXAMS
Mat Written Exam – By Appointment: History, Principles, Theory, Mat Class Programming
Mat Teaching Exam – By Appointment: 30-minute Mat & Props
Upon successful completion of this program, you’ll earn a Pilates Mat Certificate.
THE INVESTMENT
Teacher Training Academy Pricing
COMPREHENSIVE EQUIPMENT CERTIFICATE TUITION
$7,500
Early Bird Discount: Save $500 when you pay in full before January 1st or July 1st.
Pay in Full: Secure your spot with a $1,000 deposit at registration. The remaining balance is due February 1st or June 1st.
Payment Plan: Spread your $6,500 balance over 6 monthly payments of $1,190 each (including a 10% finance fee).
MAT CERTIFICATE TUITION
$1,600
Early Bird Discount: Save $100 when you pay in full before January 1st or July 1st.
Pay in Full: Secure your spot with a $1,000 deposit at registration. The remaining balance is due February 1st or June 1st.
Payment Plan: Spread your $1,600 balance over 2 monthly payments of $880 each (including a 10% finance fee).
Additional Costs
Textbooks: Costs are estimated at around $375. Detailed information and required textbook lists can be found on pages 7 (for Equipment) and 9 (for Mat) of our Teacher Training Academy Catalog.
Contingency Fees
Missed Module Make-up Session: $425
Failed Exam Retake Fee: $95
Required Reading and Textbooks
Caged Lion by John Howard Steel
Return to Life by Joseph Pilates
The Comprehensive Pilates Manual by Jillian Minter OR The Pilates Mat Manual by Jillian Minter Repertoire Manuals
Strengthen the Person, Not Just the Body Part by Raphael Bender
ACSM Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription (Optional)
Anatomy of Movement byBlandine Calais-Germain (Suggested but optional)
In-Person Pilates Teacher Training in Seattle
Fall 2025 Modules
Saturdays from 12pm-6pm at our Ravenna location.
Includes quizzes, anatomy lectures, learning Pilates curriculum & special topics workshops
Module 1 – Mat & Equipment Certificates
September 6th: Foundations of Pilates Instruction: Cueing & Communication Skills, Mat Repertoire Part I
Module 2 – Mat & Equipment Certificates
September 20th: Foundations of Pilates Instruction: Advanced Cueing Skills, Exercise Progressions, Mat Repertoire Part II
Module 3 – Mat & Equipment Certificates
October 4th: Foundations of Pilates Instruction: Anatomy & Movement, Class Planning & Programming
Exams
By Appointment
Mat Certificate Written Exam – History, Principles, Theory, Mat Class Programming
Mat & Equipment Certificates 30-minute Mat & Props Teaching Exam
Module 4 – Equipment Certificate
October 18th: Foundations of Reformer Pilates Instruction: Understanding the Reformer, Reformer Repertoire Part I
Module 5 – Equipment Certificate
November 1st: Reformer Pilates Instruction: Reformer Repertoire Part II, Special Focus: Teaching Beginners & New Clients
Module 6 – Equipment Certificate
November 15th: Reformer Pilates Instruction: Reformer Repertoire Part III, Special Focus: Teaching Strategies for Leveled v. Open Level Classes
Module 7 – Equipment Certificate
December 6th: Foundations of Cadillac & Tower Pilates Instruction: Understanding the Cadillac & Tower, Cadillac Repertoire Part I, Special Focus: Guideline based Practice
Module 8 – Equipment Certificate
December 20th: Cadillac & Tower Pilates Instruction: Cadillac Repertoire Part II, Programming Strategies, Special Focus: Working with Prenatal Clients
Module 9 – Equipment Certificate
January 10th: Cadillac & Tower Pilates Instruction: Cadillac Repertoire Part III, Special Focus: Working with Clients with Pain & Injury
Module 10 – Equipment Certificate
January 24th: Foundations of Chair Pilates Instruction: Understanding the Chair, Chair
Module 11 – Equipment Certificate
February 7th: Foundations of Boutique Studio Instruction: Pedopull, Ladder Barrel, Spine Corrector, Props Instruction & Repertoire, Special Focus: Professional Development Skills Part I
Module 12 – Equipment Certificate
February 21st: Foundations of Private Lesson Planning and Instruction, Special Focus: Professional Development Part II
Exams
February 28th: Equipment Written Exam – History, Principles, Theory, Anatomy, Special Populations
By Appointment
Equipment Teaching Exams – 50 minute Reformer/Cadillac, 30-minute Chair & Props
AS PART OF OUR COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY,
We’re Proud To Offer Teacher Training Academy Scholarships
Are you interested in becoming a Pilates instructor? Vitality Pilates is providing thousands of dollars in Teacher Training Scholarships. As a scholarship recipient, the minimum cost you will be responsible for the Teacher Training Academy is $5,000, assuming you receive the maximum scholarship award. Please be aware that scholarships are awarded on a case-by-case basis, but will not be greater than $2,500 off the total cost.
Vitality values equity and inclusion. We strive to increase diversity within our studios by supporting representation within race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, body size, age, ability and cultural background. Fitness facilities can be intimidating. We hope to break down barriers with focused invitations. If you are interested in learning more about fitness and teaching Pilates, give us a chance!
POST-PROGRAM OPPORTUNITIES
Take The Next Step In Your Career
TEACH AT VITALITY
Graduates may apply for teaching positions at Vitality Pilates through our Human Resources Manager, but enrollment does not guarantee employment.
Please note: Completion of the Pilates Teacher Training Academy does not guarantee employment, certification, or career advancement.
PILATES METHOD ALLIANCE
The Pilates Method Alliance (PMA) is a not-for-profit professional association dedicated to the Pilates field. Its mission is to advance Pilates as a profession and to promote and perpetuate the teachings of Joseph H. and Clara Pilates. Both student and professional memberships are available, should you want to join.
NATIONAL PILATES CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
Candidates who provide evidence that they meet established professional standards are awarded the title of Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher (NCPT). One can sit the certification exam after graduating from a comprehensive Equipment Certificate program with a minimum of 450 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to live in Seattle?
While residency in Seattle, WA, is not required to join our Teacher Training Academy, a significant portion of the 450 required hours will take place at one of our three Seattle studio locations. This includes but is not limited to, observation hours, training sessions, and class participation. You should be prepared to commute to Seattle at least once or twice per week, with the possibility of up to three times a week, to fulfill these requirements.
Does personal practice and practice teaching have to be done at Vitality Studios?
Practice teaching does not have to be done at our studios, but it is required that students practice using equipment. We recommend practicing at our studios if possible as that will be the equipment used for quizzes and exams.
What are the scholarship qualifications?
The Vitality Pilates Teacher Training Academy scholarship is designed to support individuals with a deep passion for Pilates and a commitment to fostering wellness in their communities. Applicants are encouraged to share personal experiences that illustrate their connection to Pilates, such as how the practice has influenced their physical, mental, or emotional well-being. Professional aspirations are also a key component; candidates should outline their goals for becoming a Pilates instructor, including how they plan to inspire others and contribute to the broader Pilates community. Additionally, financial need is an important consideration. Applicants should explain how the scholarship would alleviate financial barriers, enabling them to pursue this transformative training opportunity.
What are Community classes?
Community classes are Pilates equipment sessions led by instructors who are still completing their certification. These classes count toward your required practice teaching hours and are compensated at Seattle’s current minimum wage rate.
What experience is necessary to join the Teacher Training Academy?
Any previous Pilates experience is helpful, but not necessary. Fitness, dance, etc are also helpful prerequisites if you haven’t done Pilates. Other traits we find help students find success in our TTAs include having adequate resources—time, and social support—to complete the course, a growth mindset, willingness to work hard, openness to constructive feedback, and a love of learning.
What is the payment process after the deposit is paid?
Once the $1000 deposit is made to secure your spot, you can either pay the remainder in full by the early bird date to receive $500 off, or you can start a 6-month payment plan. Payment plans will automatically deduct each installment from the credit card on file on the 15th of the month until paid in full.
What if I have to miss some of the training dates?
Make-up sessions are offered for a fee of $425 each and need to be scheduled as soon as possible. See the Mat or Comprehensive Program Fees section in this catalog for details. Students are responsible for initiating and scheduling make-up sessions when faculty availability is available.
PILATES INSTRUCTOR TRAINING FOR EVERY BODY