Joseph Pilates was one of the 20th century pioneers of the personal fitness and rehabilitation revolution. Developed initially for returning World War I Veterans, his "Pilates" is based on a technique that integrates the mind and body to control muscular posture and functioning. The awareness exercises in Pilates are composed of breathing methods and appropriate spinal alignment to strengthen the abdominal muscles, enhance blood circulation, and to oxygenate the body.

In order to become a credentialed Pilates instructor, you should acquire certification through the Pilates Method Alliance (PMA). While not all Pilates teacher training courses are the same, fundamental curricula involves 300+ hours in a PMA-approved program. Classes are generally small, and entail studies in the principles of Pilates, anatomy, injury prevention and recovery, Pilates fitness and equipment training (Equipment typically includes full trap table, ladder barrel, magic circle, neck corrector, wunda chair, etc.), teaching techniques, and development for the professional Pilates teacher.

When you decide to pursue your Pilates teacher training certification, you should determine if the program meets fundamental instruction criteria. A good question to ask the potential Pilate teacher trainer is how many years' experience the instructor has. A well-balanced Pilates teacher training instructor will have about 10 years' experience in the fitness system.

Other aspects to consider when choosing a Pilates teacher training program include whether or not instructors are PMA certified, prerequisites and length of program, and what additional types of programs are available.

After you've successfully completed your Pilates teacher training course and have become PMA Certified, begin helping others to transform personal health and fitness through many of the Pilates mind-body exercises. Known to strengthen and tone the body, improve posture and enhance mobility and agility, Pilates is also helpful in relieving aches and pains.

If you (or someone you know) are interested in learning more about these or other health fitness occupations, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, naturopathy, acupuncture, Chinese medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore programs near you.

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