Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training

Educating Future Pilates Teachers Since 2002

At Harmonious Pilates, our mission is to teach you—our future Pilates teacher—the traditional system developed by Joseph Pilates, including both Mat and All Apparatus work.

Why Study at Harmonious Pilates?

• Expert instruction from our Program Director with over 25 years of experience

• Low student-to-teacher ratio (1:1 or 2:1) for personalized attention

• Individualized training plans tailored to your learning style and goals

• A nurturing and stimulating environment that encourages growth and excellence

Program Overview

Our Comprehensive Teacher Training Program consists of 900 hours of combined lectures and apprenticeship.

Typical Completion Timeline

• 10–12 months if your current Pilates practice is at an intermediate level and you can dedicate 15–20 hours per week

• If your weekly availability is limited, you may progress at a slower pace. A planning session with our Program Director will help you develop a customized timeline.

Bridge Program Available

Already started your teacher training elsewhere? We offer a bridge program that allows you to complete your certification with us.

Program Tracks

1. Intermediate Level Pilates Teacher Certificate

Duration: 6–8 months
Entrance Requirements:

• Pass an entrance exam demonstrating proficiency in beginner/intermediate Reformer or Mat exercises, or

• Complete 10 private lessons at Harmonious Pilates

• Be receptive to corrections

• Minimum age: 18

2. Advanced Level Pilates Teacher Certificate

Duration: 12–16 months
Entrance Requirements:

• Pass an entrance exam demonstrating proficiency in intermediate-level Reformer or Mat exercises

• Be receptive to corrections

• Minimum age: 18

Lecture Schedule (2024–2025)

Intermediate Program – 60 Hours

• October 19

• November 2, 9

• December 6, 7, 8

• January 10, 11, 12

• February 7, 8, 9

Advanced Program – 120 Hours

• October 19

• November 2, 9

• December 6, 7, 8

• January 10, 11, 12

• February 7, 8, 9

• March 21, 22, 23

• April 4, 5, 6

• May 9, 10, 11

• June 6, 7, 8

Schedule subject to change to accommodate participants and instructors.

Admission Requirements

To enroll, prospective trainees must:

• Be a high school graduate or hold a high school equivalency diploma

• Be 18 years of age or older

• Pass an Entrance Evaluation Exam demonstrating proficiency in intermediate-level Reformer exercises

• Have no injuries preventing them from performing challenging exercises

• Possess a basic understanding of Mat and Cadillac exercises

• Be able to feel and embody the benefits of Pilates and respond to instructor feedback

Inclusivity Statement

No applicant will be denied admission based on race, national origin, color, creed, religion, sex, age, disability, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation.

Notice: Harmonious Pilates does not guarantee employment or NCPT certification for graduates of its program.

Certification Outcome

Upon completion of all graduation requirements (see School Catalog), you will receive a Pilates Teacher Certificate and will be eligible to sit for the Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher (NCPT) Exam.

Our Teaching Philosophy

We expect students to deeply understand the principles and fundamentals of the Pilates method. Our curriculum emphasizes:

• The conditioning and restorative benefits that define Pilates as a timeless, stand-alone discipline

• The original exercise order, precise transitions, and effective cueing

• The development of technical skill and deep physical awareness

This comprehensive approach prepares graduates to become respected and knowledgeable Pilates professionals.

A Message to Future Teachers

Be the best you can be. Take charge of your Pilates education by choosing a program that challenges you physically and stimulates you intellectually.

Make a positive impact. True knowledge and experience are gained through diligent study and consistent practice. Teaching Pilates is not only a career—it’s one of the most rewarding professions in the world of physical fitness.

To become a successful teacher and gain recognition for your expertise, you must master the method and dedicate time to both performing and teaching the work. Mastery lies in understanding the nuance and intelligence of this powerful system that improves both body and mind.

About the Program Director

Joanna Telacka, MS, NCPT
Joanna has been teaching Pilates since 1999 and training Pilates teachers since 2002. She received her:

• 900-hour Comprehensive Teacher Training diploma

• Master Program diploma
  from The Pilates Center in Boulder, Colorado.

Her mentors, Amy Taylor Alpers and Rachel Taylor Segel, trained under Romana Kryzanowska, one of Joseph Pilates’ original students. Joanna continues to honor that lineage by passing on the classical method with integrity and depth.

She is a Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher (NCPT) and is deeply committed to preserving the classical system and maintaining high educational standards in every aspect of teacher training.

Ready to Begin?

Fill out the Program Application below or contact us directly.
We are currently updating our School Catalog and would love to answer any questions you may have.