How to Get PMA Pilates Certification

Pilates is a great form of exercise.

Pilates is a popular form of exercise that helps its users achieve lean muscle, allowing the body to be toned without ever looking "bulky," which makes it a very popular choice among women. Obtaining Pilates certification from the Pilates Method Alliance is available nationwide. If Pilates interests you and you like the idea of instructing others, Pilates certification may be right for you.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Funds
• Application
• Pilates experience

1. Make sure you really want to become certified in Pilates. Talk with Pilates instructors in your area and see if they will let you sit in during one of their classes so you can see first hand what the job is like.

2. Meet the PMA's eligibility requirements. Before you even obtain an application, you will need to have completed at least 450 hours of teacher training courses or at least 720 hours of full time employment as a Pilates instructor within the past 12 months. If you don't have any experience with Pilates, you will need to begin by finding a local school offering Pilates courses. If you visit the PMA website, you will be able to search for a studio near you.

3. Complete and send in application materials once you have met the eligibility requirements. The application fee is $295 if you go through the Pilates Method Alliance website. Any forms and handbooks that you may need are available for download at the PMA website.

4. Wait for approval. This can take up to 10 business days while incomplete applications will take longer to process.

5. Schedule a testing time within 90 days of obtaining your approval. If you don't schedule the test within 90 days, you will be charged $50 to become re-activated.

6. Take the exam. The Pilates certification exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and three hours are given to complete it.

7. Meet re-certification requirements to keep your certification status current. The Pilates Method Alliance requires their teachers to obtain 16 hours of continuing education credits every two years. You can find links to PMA- approved classes from their site. A renewal application along with a fee is also required.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not submit the application until you have met the eligibility requirements that are shown. The application fee is non-refundable.

References

• A Pilates' Primer : The Millennium Edition; Joseph Pilates
• Pilates Mathods Alliance: Get PMA Certified!