The 5 Questions to Ask a Pilates Teacher Before Signing Up

The Value of Pilates

Pilates offers a unique approach to exercise, focusing on alignment, core strength, and flexibility through mindful movement. Unlike other forms of exercise such as running or weightlifting, Pilates is low-impact and highly adaptable, making it suitable for a broad range of abilities and goals. It emphasizes controlled, precise movements, which may help prevent injuries and address chronic pain, particularly in the back, neck, and hips.

1. Focus on the Core: Pilates emphasizes strengthening the deep stabilizing muscles, such as the transverse abdominis and multifidus, which are often overlooked in traditional workouts.

2. Whole-Body Integration: Exercises train the entire body rather than isolating muscle groups, promoting balanced strength and flexibility.

3. Mind-Body Connection: Borrowing from principles of concentration and control, Pilates encourages mindfulness, similar to yoga, but with an athletic edge.

For example, while strength training targets muscle hypertrophy or growth, Pilates focuses on functional strength, enabling participants to move with ease and reduce strain on joints.

Growing Trends in Pilates

Pilates is on the rise globally, with the market projected to reach $215.3 billion by 2025 as more people embrace mindful exercise and fitness accessibility​. In recent years:

• Equipment-Based Pilates has grown in popularity, with studios investing in specialized apparatus like reformers to enhance training diversity.

• Online and On-Demand Classes surged during the pandemic and remain popular, catering to busy individuals.

• Specialized Programming for age groups and needs, such as seniors, desk warriors and athletes, makes Pilates highly versatile.

According to the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), older adults are driving fitness trends, with more than 40% of adults aged 65+ regularly engaging in fitness activities to manage health and mobility​.

A Client’s Journey with Pilates

One client of mine, Sarah, came to Pilates seeking relief from chronic back pain caused by years of desk work. She began with a weekly mat class, focusing on gentle stretching and core activation. Within months, Sarah noticed a remarkable improvement: her posture straightened, her back pain eased, and she found renewed energy for hobbies she had previously avoided, like gardening and hiking.

Sarah’s story isn’t uncommon. Research published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies reveals that regular Pilates improves core strength and stability, resulting in decreased pain and better functional movement in 73% of participants with chronic back pain​.

Pilates Is Not a Quick Fix

Like any form of exercise, the benefits you gain from Pilates depend on the time and effort you invest. You wouldn’t join a gym, never show up, and expect to run the New York Marathon in six months or dominate a CrossFit competition, would you? The same principle applies to Pilates—it’s a practice that rewards consistency and dedication.

Most people know that Pilates can strengthen the core, engage smaller stabilizing muscle groups, and improve balance and coordination. It’s no secret that Pilates enhances posture, promotes optimal alignment, and supports a more flexible spine. But how long does it take to see results?

The timeline depends on your individual goals and how regularly you practice. Many people begin to notice enhanced core activation and strength after just 4–6 weeks of consistent sessions (2–3 times a week). By 6–8 weeks, improvements in posture and alignment often become more evident as your body grows stronger and more balanced. For those focusing on flexibility and mobility, gradual improvements typically emerge after 8–10 weeks.

If you’re seeking relief from discomfort or pain, such as in the lower back or neck, you may feel noticeable improvement within 8–12 weeks—though this timeline varies depending on the individuals specific needs.

With Pilates, even small, consistent efforts build over time. Many clients report “feeling the difference” within just a few sessions—whether it’s newfound energy, a better sense of body awareness, or simply moving with greater ease. Pilates isn’t about quick fixes; it’s about making meaningful, long-lasting changes that support your overall health and well-being.

Common Misconceptions About Pilates

“Isn’t Pilates just stretching?”

Not at all! While Pilates incorporates stretches to improve flexibility, it is fundamentally about strengthening the core and stabilizing muscles to promote efficient movement. Pilates is a dynamic form of exercise that combines strength, control, and mobility. It challenges your body to engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, improving balance, coordination, and posture. You’ll stretch, yes, but you’ll also build strength and endurance.

“Do I need to be flexible to start Pilates?”

Absolutely not! Pilates is designed for everyone, no matter your starting point. Flexibility is often a result of practicing Pilates rather than a requirement. In fact, if you feel stiff or inflexible, Pilates can help you gradually increase your range of motion and improve overall mobility. It’s a practice that meets you where you are and evolves with you.

“Does equipment Pilates work better than mat Pilates?”

Both mat and equipment Pilates are effective; the choice depends on your goals and preferences.

• Mat Pilates focuses on using your body weight as resistance and often incorporates small props like resistance bands or magic circles. It’s accessible and easy to do anywhere.

• Equipment Pilates, using machines like the Reformer or Cadillac, adds adjustable resistance and supports more precise alignment, which can intensify or modify exercises based on your needs.

It’s About the Journey, Not Just the Result

I love receiving feedback from my clients about their progress. When they tell me they feel stronger, their pain has disappeared, or they’re moving with newfound ease, I’m thrilled—but I don’t take full credit. Those outcomes reflect their commitment to showing up consistently, challenging themselves, staying present in class, and embracing the process.

As a teacher, my role is to guide and motivate, but I also watch carefully, paying close attention to every student. I pride myself on tailoring classes to my clients’ needs, constantly evaluating and adjusting to keep them engaged and progressing. The effort they put in directly correlates to the results they achieve—and that’s the magic of Pilates.

Why Do I Ask Questions?

While I feel confident my clients will achieve their goals, I regularly check in with them. Why? Because success in Pilates isn’t just about the exercises, it’s also about their experience with me as their teacher. My clients should find it easy to connect with me, book classes, and understand what to expect. I want to ensure my cues resonate, they enjoy the atmosphere, and they feel supported and inspired throughout their journey.

This feedback loop is essential—it measures the quality of the service I provide and keeps us on the right track. After all, Pilates isn’t just about moving well; it’s about enjoying the process and building a relationship with your teacher that enhances your practice.

The Right Fit Matters

Whether you're looking for pain relief, improved posture, or injury prevention, your journey with a Pilates teacher is often a long-term commitment. Finding the right teacher is crucial—you need to connect with their teaching style, enjoy their classes, and feel confident in their ability to help you achieve your goals.

It’s important to note that there are multiple styles of Pilates, with two prominent ones often referenced: classical Pilates and contemporary Pilates.

• Classical Pilates stays true to Joseph Pilates’ original methods and exercises. It follows the sequences and structure he developed, emphasizing traditional principles with minimal modifications. Both mat and apparatus exercises maintain a strong connection to the historical roots of the practice.

• Contemporary Pilates, on the other hand, builds upon Joseph Pilates’ foundation. It incorporates modern biomechanics, rehabilitation science, and updated movement techniques. Contemporary teachers may adapt exercises to suit individual needs, address injuries, or integrate props and new equipment.

In short, classical Pilates preserves the original method, while contemporary Pilates evolves the practice to integrate modern knowledge and adaptability. Both styles honor the core principles of Pilates but suit different goals and preferences.

With the growing popularity of equipment-based Pilates, live-stream classes, on-demand platforms, and in-person studio sessions, there are countless teaching styles and formats to choose from. The key is selecting a teacher and style that excite you and fit your lifestyle.

As a teacher with over 15 years of experience, I can confidently say that no two clients are the same. Pilates should enrich your life, help you move better, and prevent or manage injury. Finding a teacher who aligns with your goals and preferences is essential to making Pilates a lasting, transformative practice.

Why Education Matters in Pilates Instruction

A teacher's qualifications and educational background are crucial when choosing the right Pilates instructor. Don’t hesitate to ask where they received their training, as this demonstrates your commitment to finding a qualified professional. Comprehensive teacher training programs typically include a minimum of 480+ hours of coursework in areas such as anatomy, biomechanics, and Pilates principles, along with practical, hands-on experience or mentorship under a seasoned instructor in a studio setting.

This combination of theory and practical training ensures a teacher can tailor exercises safely and effectively for clients with diverse needs and goals. Whether they trained in the Classical or Contemporary method, their ability to uphold and adapt Joseph H. Pilates’s foundational principles to modern practices is essential to achieving meaningful and safe results.

Personally, I am committed to honoring Joseph Pilates’s legacy while blending it with modern movement science. As a certified Personal Trainer, I integrate contemporary approaches to ensure that my clients progressively load their joints, develop balanced strength, and achieve their fitness goals with each session. My mission is to teach with integrity, combining traditional Pilates principles and cutting-edge techniques to provide a safe, effective, and transformative experience for every client.

The 5 Questions to Ask a Pilates Teacher

Before committing to a Pilates teacher, consider asking these four important questions:

1. Why do you teach Pilates?
   Understanding a teacher’s motivation and passion can reveal if their approach aligns with your goals.

2. What type of Pilates do you teach, and why?
   Whether it’s Classical or Contemporary, every teacher brings a unique perspective and method to their practice.

3. How long will it take to see results, and what will I learn?
   Set realistic expectations while gaining insight into how the teacher tailors classes to progress you toward your goals.

4. How would your clients describe their experience with you in three words?
   This question offers a glimpse into the atmosphere, energy, and approachability of the teacher.

5. What is your educational background and training in Pilates? A teacher’s education is a key indicator of their expertise and ability to guide you safely and effectively. Look for instructors who have completed comprehensive training programs. This question ensures your teacher has the depth of knowledge to help you achieve your goals while prioritizing your safety and progress.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right Pilates teacher can transform your practice into a meaningful part of your life. Use these questions to guide your decision, and don’t hesitate to seek out the teacher and method that inspire and motivate you. Pilates is a journey, not a destination—may you find joy and strength in every step of it!

Meet your Author:

Alice is a seasoned Pilates instructor with 20 years of experience in the fitness and wellness industry in Ireland. Certified by Balanced Body as a Comprehensive Pilates Instructor, she also holds qualifications as an NTC Personal Trainer and Exercise and Health Coach. Based in Galway, Alice teaches Reformer and Mat Pilates classes, and offers private equipment-based sessions using the Reformer, Cadillac, and other apparatus. She works with a wide range of clients, tailoring programs to individual needs — from office workers and recreational athletes. Before specializing in Pilates, Alice spent over a decade managing fitness facilities, giving her a broad understanding of both client care and the evolving fitness industry. Today, she brings that expertise to her teaching — offering a thoughtful, structured, and progressive approach to Pilates that meets clients exactly where they are.

Alice is passionate about helping people move well and move smart. Whether you're practicing at home or in the studio, her goal is to help you build a strong foundation, avoid compensation and overload, and experience how Pilates can truly support your everyday life.

References:

1. International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA)
   The IHRSA provides insights into fitness industry trends, including the increasing engagement of older adults in fitness activities. While specific statistics from IHRSA are not directly cited in the blog, their reports offer valuable context on fitness trends.

2. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies
   A study published in this journal examined the effectiveness of Pilates in individuals with chronic low back pain, finding significant improvements in pain relief and functional ability.
   PubMed

3. Global Pilates Market Trends
   Market research indicates substantial growth in the Pilates and yoga studios market, with projections estimating a market size of $215.8 billion by 2025.
   Allied Market Research

4. Pilates Training & Certifications
   Information on Pilates certifications, including distinctions between classical and contemporary methods, is available through various Pilates organizations and training programs. While specific sources are not cited in the blog, reputable organizations offer detailed information on Pilates training and certifications.

5. Joseph H. Pilates and Pilates Method
   Joseph H. Pilates developed the Pilates method, emphasizing principles such as concentration, control, center, flow, precision, and breathing. Detailed information about his life and the development of the Pilates method can be found in various biographies and historical accounts.

6. Personal Testimonials and Client Experience (e.g., Sarah's story)
   Client anecdotes, such as Sarah's story, are illustrative examples commonly used to highlight the benefits of Pilates. While specific client stories are not cited in the blog, similar testimonials can be found in Pilates studio websites and client reviews.

Disclaimer:

The content in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance, especially if you have medical concerns or pre-existing conditions. While my classes are tailored to individual goals, life stages, and fitness levels, they are not intended for rehabilitation or medical treatment.