Frequently Asked Questions

Answers for every stage of your Pilates path.

Learn how our classes, enrollment programs, private training, and accredited teacher education work—or connect with our team for personal guidance.

A Different Kind of Pilates School

We teach a complete practice—not a quick fix.

Our approach combines education, consistency, personalized planning, and authentic Classical Pilates. Because our model includes several ways to learn, it may look different from a typical studio. Use the questions below to find your best starting point.

01

General School Questions

Start here if you are new to The Pilates School or Classical Pilates.

What is The Pilates School?

The Pilates School combines authentic Classical Pilates education, accessible movement, and structured pathways for personal practice, private training, and professional teacher education. We are a school—not simply a fitness studio—so students learn how and why they move while building a practice they can sustain.

Why is accreditation important?

Accreditation means our educational programs have been evaluated against established standards for student learning and measurable outcomes. Our curriculum is consistent, overseen by educators, and designed to offer personalized options within a clear academic structure. Depending on the receiving institution, completed coursework may also support future professional education.

Do I need prior Pilates experience?

No. We support multiple entry points, from someone taking a first Pilates class to an experienced student pursuing advanced study or teacher certification.

How do I decide which program is right for me?

Use our Find Your Pilates Path guide to receive a personalized recommendation, or contact Student Support for help comparing the Drop-In, In-Person, At-Home, Private Training, and Teacher Certification programs.

02

Drop-In & Private Training

Choose a flexible class or the level of individual support your body needs.

Which Drop-In class should I start with?

We recommend beginning with a strictly Classical Pilates class such as Mat, Auxiliary Equipment, or Pilates + Props. Stay with Level I classes while you build your foundation, and ask your teacher before moving into a higher-level class. You can review current options on the Class Schedule page.

Can I transfer from the Drop-In Program to an enrollment-based program?

Yes. We expect your needs to change, so students can move into a more structured program when appropriate. Some changes may require up to 30 days’ notice. Student Support can explain timing, credits, and the best next step for your membership.

How do I know if I need a private session?

Everyone can benefit from private instruction, but it may be especially important when learning or refining exercises, during pregnancy, while managing a chronic condition, after an injury, or when your movement needs require close individual attention. A private session can also prepare you to participate more safely and confidently in group training.

Which level of private teacher should I choose?

A Teacher-in-Training or Graduate Teacher is an effective, affordable fit for many generally healthy students. Teachers-in-training receive observation and guidance from senior faculty.

Choose a Lead Teacher when you need someone with a relevant specialization. Consider an Expert Teacher for serious injuries, chronic or complex conditions, high pain levels, pregnancy-related needs, or movement patterns that require advanced assessment. See the experience levels and rates on the Private Training Program page.

Are there more affordable alternatives to standard private-session rates?

Yes. Eligible students can be matched with a supervised Teacher-in-Training for no-cost practice-client sessions or flexible packages priced according to the teacher’s training level. Visit Financial Assistance to review Teacher-in-Training options and other assistance programs.

03

In-Person & At-Home Programs

Learn how our enrollment-based personal-enrichment programs work.

What are the steps to enroll in the In-Person or At-Home Program?

For the In-Person Program, begin by purchasing the In-Person Enrollment Package. Book a Pre-Pilates, Basic, or Mixed Small Group Training class at the Geary School for your assessment, then attend at least one dedicated Pilates class each week at the Geary Studio. Student Services will contact you to arrange your official enrollment meeting.

During enrollment, we outline a personalized plan and register you for the classes and training sessions required during the upcoming three to five months. At-Home Program students can begin with the At-Home Early-Bird Enrollment Pack. Enroll by October 15 to receive free, exclusive virtual class access from September 28 through October 30.

What is the value of an enrollment-based program?

These programs teach Pilates as a skill tailored to your body. Rather than repeating a single equipment class, you learn the complete Classical Pilates system, including how to understand, customize, and modify exercises for your needs.

In-Person enrollment includes frequent equipment-based small-group training at one monthly rate. Once cleared, students may also receive access to equipment for approved self-guided practice. The goal is to help you build the knowledge and independence to create effective workouts throughout your life.

How does the At-Home Program differ from the In-Person Program?

Equipment: In-Person students train on Classical Pilates apparatus. At-Home students train virtually with light props that help simulate equipment-based exercises.

Level: The In-Person Program can progress through high-intermediate Classical Pilates. The At-Home Program progresses through low-intermediate work.

Graduate access: At-Home graduates may become eligible for equipment self-practice after completing the required In-Person bridge program.

04

Teacher Training

Review readiness, schedules, tuition, assistance, housing, and career support.

Is teacher training only for advanced students?

No—and it depends on the training path. Beginners can take Introductory Certifications, and interested students may attend eligible professional-development or CEC activities.

Students entering the Comprehensive Teacher Certification Program must demonstrate intermediate-level Classical Pilates proficiency. If you have not reached that level, you may receive provisional admission while completing some or all of the In-Person Program first.

Are full-time and part-time options available?

Yes. Full-time students generally complete 16 on-site hours per week, including personal practice, and may finish in approximately 12–14 months. Part-time students generally complete 8 hours per week and may finish in approximately 24–36 months. Review the current Class and Training Schedule for available options.

How much does Comprehensive Teacher Certification cost?

Comprehensive Certification tuition is $11,500 for both full-time and part-time pathways. The current $1,180 deposit is due upon acceptance. Student materials are a separate cost. Review the Tuition & Fees page for the latest program pricing and inclusions before applying.

Is financial assistance available for Teacher Certification?

Yes. Options may include scholarships, work-study, Trade-in-Kind arrangements, payment plans, and other need-based programs. Eligibility and award amounts vary, and students may participate in only one Financial Assistance program at a time. Review all requirements on the Financial Assistance page before selecting the option that best suits your needs.

Is housing assistance available?

Affordable room rentals may be available in residences owned by The Pilates School. Housing is limited, subject to availability, and reserved for eligible full-time students for up to three consecutive semesters. Contact Student Support for current availability and requirements.

Does the school offer job-placement support after graduation?

Yes. The school coordinates career support and may arrange interviews for qualified graduates. Top-performing students may also be considered for teaching opportunities within The Pilates School or affiliated locations. Placement and employment are not guaranteed and depend on performance, qualifications, availability, and employer needs.

Are professional-development opportunities available?

Yes. Offerings may include one-time seminars, workshops, Continuing Education Credits, advanced certifications, multi-year mentorship, and business-development programs. Visit Professional Development & CECs for current opportunities.

Still Have a Question?

We’ll help you choose your next step.

Contact Student Support for help with programs, enrollment, schedules, accommodations, or teacher training.