Pilates Apparatus Certification Program

Modules: Apparatus 1, Apparatus 2 & Apparatus 3

BBU Pilates Apparatus Certification completes the full Pilates instructor certification program. Included is the complete repertoire on the Trapeze Table/Cadillac/Tower, the Pilates Chair, the Barrels and small equipment. Completing the additional apparatus training gives you a great variety of tools to use when working with clients and qualifies you to take the national PMA Pilates certification exam.

• Apparatus 1  - 14 hours
  
• Apparatus 2 - 12 hours
  
• Apparatus 3 - 12 hours
  

Our Apparatus Certification program includes:

• Exercise instruction in the complete Pilates Trapeze Table/Cadillac/Tower, Pilates Chair and Barrels and Small equipment is included
  
• A comprehensive manual for each piece of equipment consistent with current national standards

• Cueing, coaching, safety and teaching tips for clients at different levels of ability
  
• Program sequences for classes and personal training sessions
  
• Equipment safety and set up

Apparatus 1 (14 hours)
Introduction to Apparatus & Beginning Exercises

Prerequisites: 3 years experience teaching movement, anatomy, 30 Pilates Apparatus classes or personal training sessions

Apparatus I includes an introduction to the Trap Table/Tower/Cadillac, Pilates Chair, Barrels and small equipment including set up and safety, plus beginning exercises, and program sequencing . By the end of the course you will be able to teach a beginning class or personal training session using the apparatus.

Apparatus 2 (12 hours)
Intermediate Exercises

Prerequisites: Apparatus 1

Apparatus 2 includes intermediate exercises and modifications designed for group and individual instruction. Teaching successful lessons and sessions to clients at different levels of ability is emphasized. Included are a variety of programs designed to keep your clients inspired.

Apparatus 3 (12 hours)
Advanced Exercises

Prerequisites: Apparatus 2

Apparatus 3 includes advanced exercises on all the apparatus and tips for training the advanced client.

Download a
Balanced Body University brochure

Registration for these courses is done through the Balanced Body University
online
or by calling 877-PILATES (877.745-2837).

BBU Pilates Instructor Certification

Requirements for Completion

To become a fully qualified Balanced Body University Pilates Instructor, students must complete the following requirements:

• Anatomy (required)
  
• BBU Mat Instructor training or equivalent

• BBU Reformer Instructor training or equivalent
  
• BBU Apparatus 1- Course work, written and practical test (18 hours)
  
• BBU Apparatus 2- Course work, written and practical test (14 hours)
  
• BBU Apparatus 3 - Course work, written and practical test (6 hours)
  
• 45 Personal practice hours and 105 Teaching hours or
  
• 35 Personal sessions, 20 observations hours and 95 teaching hours
  
• Practical test

Total hours for completion of Apparatus: 188 hours
Total hours for completion of full program: 488 hours
Upon completion of all of the requirements, a certificate of completion as a Balanced Body University Pilates Instructor will be issued.

Students who have completed a Pilates certification program through other organizations and are interested in obtaining a BBU certification should contact the BBU office to inquire about our bridge program.

Reformer and Other Apparatus Final Exam and Certification

Once instructors have completed all of the Reformer and/or Apparatus course work and hours, they must pass a practical exam demonstrating their teaching ability. Exams will be regularly scheduled in different areas of the world. If instructors are not able to test out due to geographical challenges, testing out by video can be arranged. If a student is completing both the Reformer and the Apparatus sequence, they will not need to test out separately on the Reformer and the Apparatus.

The final test out consists of:

Observation of a session with a client or an apparatus class. The specific requirements will be determined prior to the testing.

During the exam we will be observing and rating the instructor’s skills in the following areas:

• Correct set up and execution of the exercises
  
• Client safety
  
• Appropriate sequencing
  
• Appropriateness of the exercises to the client or class
  
• Understanding and application of the principles
  
• Cueing and the ability to communicate with your client or class
  

If the instructor does not pass on the first try, we will discuss what they need to focus on in order to pass and set up a timeline for completion.