Teacher Training
At Pilatesengel, we offer traditional, classical Pilates training programs informed by the latest scientific research.
The training programs at Pilatesengel are based on a clearly structured, biomechanically grounded understanding of the Pilates method. Their foundation lies in an in-depth engagement with the work of Shari Berkowitz and her concept at The Vertical Workshop.
Shari was trained, among others, by Romana Krzyzanowska, who continued Joseph Pilates’ work at his studio. While the method there evolved in part toward a more dance-oriented approach, Shari consistently redirects the focus to its functional and biomechanical foundations.
She examines each exercise in terms of its purpose, prerequisites, and logical progression—creating a clear, structured system for sustainable learning and teaching.
This approach shapes our training programs. It supports you in observing movement with precision, adapting it to individual needs, and teaching in a sustainable and effective way—whether you aim to teach or to deepen your own practice.
At the same time, we place great importance on a personal learning environment: you will learn in small groups, through direct exchange, with space for questions, development, and shared growth. Because alongside all precision and structure, one thing should never be missing—the joy of movement and the sense of being part of a supportive community.
Teacher Training Mat (Basic + Intermediate)
Classical Pilates training for effective mat-based practice
In this training program, you will learn the classical Pilates exercises of the Level 1 and 2 sequence in a professional and personal environment—from precise execution to structured instruction. You will develop a solid understanding of the fundamental principles of the Pilates method and learn how to communicate them clearly and effectively.
By the end of the program, you will be able to design and teach mat classes independently. You will know how to combine exercises in a meaningful way, create logical progressions, and enrich your teaching through the targeted use of small equipment such as balls, rings, weights, resistance bands, barrels, or rollers.
Another key focus is on relevant anatomical foundations as well as individual guidance: you will learn to analyze movement, respond to different needs, and guide your clients safely through the exercises using precise verbal and tactile cueing.
Prerequisites: A minimum of 15 hours of personal practice at Pilatesengel is recommended (online participation possible).
Saturdays and Sundays, 10:00 – 18:00 (break: 13:00 – 13:45):
24 & 25 January – Seminar #1: Basic (Level 1)
21 & 22 February – Seminar #2: Intermediate (Level 2)
21 & 22 March – Seminar #3: Small Equipment, Pilates Language, Flow
18 & 19 April – Seminar #4: Anatomy, Aches and Pains, Modifications
9 & 10 May – Seminar #5: Class Design, Creating Your Own Sessions
30 May – Final Exam (theoretical and practical, scheduling flexible)
€ 1490 (incl. Pilatesengel manual and 19% VAT)
After registering for the training, you will receive the initial course materials to help you prepare. The exercise sequence should already be familiar to you at the start of the training.
Recommended Reading:
Anatomy of Movement – Blandine Calais-Germain
A Pilates’ Primer – The Millennium Edition
Selected articles by Shari Berkowitz, master teacher and biomechanist
Teacher Training Reformer (Basic + Intermediate)
Classical Pilates training for precise Reformer work
The Teacher Training Reformer (Basic + Intermediate) is designed for those who have successfully completed the Mat Training (Basic + Intermediate) and would like to expand their repertoire to include apparatus-based work.
In this training program, you will learn the classical Reformer exercises of the Basic (Level 1) and Intermediate (Level 2) sequences—both in precise personal execution and in structured teaching. Building on the training logic of the classical method, the program integrates current biomechanical insights to ensure effective, safe, and contemporary practice.
The Reformer is a versatile piece of equipment that uniquely combines strength, mobility, and coordination. Through variable resistance and flowing movement patterns, exercises can be individually adapted and progressively developed. This creates a training that is joint-friendly and suitable for rehabilitative contexts, while still being challenging and physically demanding.
A key component of the program, alongside methodological structure, is precise teaching: you will learn how to cue exercises clearly, offer meaningful variations, and safely guide your clients through targeted verbal and tactile corrections (“hands-on”).
Prerequisites: Teacher Training Mat (Levels 1+2) and a minimum of 15 hours of personal practice.
Saturdays, 14:00 – 19:30:
7 March – Seminar #1: Basic (Level 1)
28 March – Seminar #2: Intermediate (Level 2) – part 1
11 April – Seminar #3: Intermediate (Level 2) – part 2
16 May – Seminar #4: Hands-on
6 June – Final Exam (theoretical and practical, scheduling flexible)
€ 1190 (incl. Pilatesengel manual and 19% VAT)
Recommended Reading:
Anatomy of Movement – Blandine Calais-Germain
Selected articles by Shari Berkowitz, master teacher and biomechanist