The journey to becoming a Pilates instructor is so varied. Instructors end up coming from different backgrounds and career backgrounds. And each of these people brings their unique perspective, skill set, and approach to teaching. Below, are a few different Pilates instructor personas and their possible teaching style.
The Group Fitness Instructor Turned Pilates Instructor – Sarah, 35
- Background: Former group fitness instructor used to lead high-energy classes.
- Strengths: Excellent at keeping the class engaged, motivating large groups, and creating an energetic atmosphere.
- Challenges: Less focus on the mind-body connection, with an emphasis on participants feeling good rather than deeply understanding the movements.
- Ideal Clients: Those looking for a fun, high-energy class experience rather than a deeply technical session.
The Dancer or Movement Professional Turned Pilates Instructor – Elena, 29
Strengths: Naturally understands body mechanics, graceful movement, and precision.
Challenges: Teaching regular individuals who may lack body awareness can be an adjustment.
Ideal Clients: Those who appreciate fluid, mindful movement and the artistic side of Pilates.
Background: Former dancer with extensive body awareness and movement training.
The Personal Trainer Turned Pilates Instructor – Mike, 42
Background: Certified personal trainer incorporating Pilates as an additional tool.
Strengths: Strong understanding of strength training, modifications, and progressions.
Challenges: May approach Pilates as just another piece of fitness equipment rather than a holistic movement method.
Ideal Clients: Those looking for a workout-focused approach with strength and conditioning elements.
The Yoga Instructor Turned Pilates Instructor – Priya, 38
Background: Experienced yoga instructor transitioning to Pilates after intensive training.
Strengths: Deep knowledge of breathwork, flexibility, and mindfulness.
Challenges: Adjusting from yoga’s fluid, meditative approach to Pilates’ structured, resistance-based methodology.
Ideal Clients: Those who enjoy a mind-body connection and slower, more controlled movements.
The Fitness Enthusiast Turned Pilates Instructor – Jake, 31
Background: Passionate about fitness, fell in love with Pilates and pursued instructor training.
Strengths: Enthusiastic, relatable, and eager to share personal experiences with clients.
Challenges: Lacks a deep professional fitness background, so may take time to master technique and instruction.
Ideal Clients: Beginners looking for an encouraging, motivational instructor.
The Experienced Pilates Instructor – Linda, 50
Background: Trained as a Pilates instructor before its recent surge in popularity.
Strengths: Deep knowledge of traditional Pilates methods and principles.
Challenges: May be less adaptable to new fitness trends and modern variations of Pilates.
Ideal Clients: Those looking for a classic, authentic Pilates experience.
The Physiotherapist or Health Practitioner Turned Pilates Instructor – David, 45
Background: Trained physiotherapist or rehabilitation specialist incorporating Pilates into their practice.
Strengths: Deep understanding of injury recovery, rehabilitation, and movement therapy.
Challenges: May focus too much on therapeutic aspects and less on overall class engagement.
Ideal Clients: Individuals recovering from injuries or looking for a therapeutic approach to Pilates.
Summary
Pilates instructors come from all kinds of backgrounds, each with their own strengths, skill sets and eventual teaching styles. Every instructor has a different focus when teaching. Where it’s movement-focused, strength-driven, or rehabilitation-oriented, the teaching approach shapes the experience for the client. Understanding these instructor personas, teaching styles and approaches can help studios find the right instructor fit for their clientele creating the optimal Pilates offering for their studio.
Certified Stott Pilates instructor in mat and reformer Pilates.