Become a pilates trainer
the pilates studio is proud to offer an extensive teacher training programme for certified Classical Pilates instructors exclusively in Frankfurt.
Lucy Hickey, founder and director of the pilates studio, has been training future instructors for nearly 10 years. Her commitment to excellence stems from her training under Davorka Kulenovic, who was directly trained by Romana Kryzanowska, Joseph Pilates’ protégée. This lineage represents one of the most authentic connections to Joseph Pilates’ original teachings available today.
This rigorous programme emphasizes hands-on instruction with apprentices working directly alongside Lucy and her experienced teacher trainers. The small group environment ensures comprehensive, personalized training that creates optimal conditions for successful certification.
We are committed to passing on our expertise, passion, and dedication to the next generation of Classical Pilates instructors.
Our Programme
Our 12-month Comprehensive Teacher Training Programme develops dedicated practitioners into qualified instructors. As a trainee apprentice of the pilates studio you’ll learn the complete classical system — all mat work and apparatus exercises that Joseph Pilates created — enabling you to teach from beginner through advanced levels.
You’ll master the fundamentals of effective Pilates instruction, combining Joseph Pilates’ original methods with our studio’s proven approach. Through practical, hands-on training, you’ll gain the skills to safely modify and adapt exercises for clients of all experience levels and physical abilities.
What will I learn?
- History of the Pilates method, including a comprehensive understanding of the exercise sequences and their effects on the body
- Teaching fundamentals: what to teach, when to introduce exercises, and the reasoning behind each decision
- Complete Classical repertoire from Beginner to Advanced level on mat work and all apparatus: Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Tower, Wunda Chair, Highchair, Ladder Barrel, Small Barrel, Spine Corrector, and Pedi-Pole
- Essential teaching skills: proper hands-on assistance, effective instruction techniques, and safety protocols
- Supervised teaching experience with clients in both private and group sessions
- Injury management and exercise modifications for different body types and physical limitations
- Essential anatomy knowledge required at each training level
- Developing the skills to independently and effectively instruct clients from beginner to advanced level.
- Proper apparatus handling and maintenance
Structure
The program consists of 600 hours of comprehensive apprenticeship training, including workshop weekends, observation sessions, self-practice, summary workshops, live teaching practice, and mandatory participation in private and group sessions.
The course is structured in three progressive levels: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level includes a 2-3 day intensive workshop led by experienced pilates studio teacher trainers who provide extensive knowledge, technical detail, and practical teaching experience.
In addition to the weekend workshops, the apprenticeship requires 10-25 hours of practical training per week in the studio: taking classes and private lessons, observing sessions and classes, assisting certified teachers, practicing with other students and independently and finally, teaching clients.
Apprentices receive a manual at each stage which provides essential step-by-step instructions, photos, and teaching tips for every exercise, making it an indispensable tool for during their training and beyond.
Admission Requirements
This selective program accepts only 6 apprentices per year. All applicants must demonstrate solid understanding of Classical Intermediate work and confirm they understand the time commitment required before enrollment. Students are responsible for ensuring the course schedule fits their personal and professional commitments.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- General physical and mental health
- Physical fitness and movement ability
- Basic anatomy knowledge
- Responsibility and emotional maturity
- Intermediate Pilates proficiency
Assessment by a teacher trainer is required for admission.
Exams
Exams are conducted upon completion of each level: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced. Practical exams (teaching and execution) are required at all three levels, while written exams are required at Intermediate and Advanced levels.
Certification is only issued once the apprentice has attended all three workshops, completed the required apprenticeship hours, and passed all practical and written exams.
Costs
The course fee is €6,000, payable in four installments.
This fee includes:
- Weekend workshops (Basic, Intermediate and Advanced: 50 hours)
- Training meetings
- All manuals
- An anatomy workshop
- Access to our studio with top-quality equipment
- Access to the studio’s online teacher training portal
- Online mat courses
Approximate additional expenses: €3,900
These additional mandatory costs during the 12-month training period include:
- Weekly one-on-one sessions and regular group sessions
- Examination fees
Trainees receive a 10% discount on all private and group classes.
Total costs: approximately €9,900
Manuals for Teacher Training
