How to Start Teaching Your First Pilates Classes After Qualifying

Qualifying is only the first step. Turning a Level 3 Pilates qualification into actual paid teaching work takes a bit of planning. Here's a practical starting checklist.

Get the essentials in place first

✔ Professional indemnity and public liability insurance. Arrange this before teaching your first paid session

✔ A simple client intake process, including a basic health questionnaire (PAR-Q) for new clients

✔ A mat, and if teaching privately, basic equipment such as resistance bands or small props

✔ A clear idea of your pricing for both group classes and one-to-one sessions

Decide how you'll teach

Most newly qualified instructors start in one of a few common ways: covering or picking up classes at an existing gym or studio, renting space to run your own group sessions, or offering one-to-one sessions privately or in clients' homes. Many combine several of these as they build experience.

Pricing your sessions

Group class rates commonly range from around £20 to £40 per class, while one-to-one sessions are typically priced significantly higher. It's usually sensible to start within the typical local range for your area rather than under-pricing significantly, since raising prices later is harder than adjusting them down.

Building your first clients

• Approach local gyms or studios about covering or picking up classes

• If you already work as a PT, offer Pilates to existing clients as a complementary service

• Ask early clients for reviews and referrals. Word of mouth is one of the strongest client sources in Pilates

• Consider a taster session or introductory offer to help new clients commit

Looking further ahead

Once you're established teaching Mat Pilates, progressing to a Reformer qualification is a natural way to widen your client base and increase your session rates further.

Get in touch with our team for help finding your first teaching opportunities.