High School
A high school diploma is the minimum requirement to work as a yoga or Pilates instructor. Take anatomy, biology, psychology, and physical education. In addition, get involved in weight lifting, dance, sports, and other activities that will help you to stay fit and learn more about exercise.
Postsecondary Training
The demand for yoga and Pilates instructors has grown faster than the number of available experienced teachers, leading to unskilled, untrained teachers causing an increase in injuries among students. Consequently, yoga and Pilates instructors must now receive specialized training in their field before they can teach. Standards that include 200 hours of training have been established by the Pilates Method Alliance and the Yoga Alliance. Both organizations also maintain a list of approved training schools that are registered and meet specified requirements. Additional useful college courses include anatomy, physiology, psychology, kinesiology, biomechanics, chemistry, physics, first aid and safety, health, and nutrition. The Pilates Center also provides teacher training programs.
Other Education or Training
Yoga and Pilates instructors must take continuing education workshops and seminars to keep their certification current. These opportunities are offered by American Fitness Professionals and Associates, IDEA Health & Fitness Association, Integral Yoga Teachers Association, The Pilates Center, Pilates Method Alliance, and the Yoga Alliance.
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