Mat Pilates
Certification
Become a Mat Pilates Instructor.
UPCOMING INTAKES
Who’s this course for?
This foundational course is for those who want to confidentially teach Mat Pilates and make an impact in peoples lives.
COURSE INFORMATION
YMCA Level 3 Diploma in Instructing Pilates Matwork
LEARNING OUTCOMES
COURSE OUTCOMES
- Complete Matwork repertoire and principles
- Anatomy and physiology
- Verbal cueing and hands on adjustments
- Modifications, progression and regressions for injury and pregnancy
- Class programming for all clients
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
REQUIREMENTS
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To achieve the YMCA Level 3 Diploma in Instructing Pilates Matwork, you must successfully complete five (5) assessments. These are designed to progressively build your theoretical knowledge and practical teaching skills and should be completed in the following order.
A detailed Assessment Guide is provided within the course outlining the specific requirements for each assessment.
Assessment 1: Knowledge Quiz
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Test your understanding of the course theory.
Includes:
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Anatomy and Physiology
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History and Fundamentals of Pilates
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Health Awareness and Lifestyle Management
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Health Screening and Risk Stratification
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Customer Experience
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Teaching Pilates
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Assessment 2: Pilates Presentation
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Develop and deliver a professional presentation on Pilates and its benefits.
Includes:
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Planning a presentation
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Delivering the presentation to a small group
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Participating in a professional discussion with an assessor
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Assessment 3: Matwork Pilates Practice Portfolio
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Demonstrate your practical understanding and analysis of Pilates matwork exercises.
Includes:
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Personal practice log and reflective evaluation
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60-minute video recording of your personal practice
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Exercise Analysis Workbook
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20-minute professional discussion with an assessor
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Assessment 4: Practical Teaching Assessment
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Demonstrate your ability to plan, deliver and evaluate a Pilates Matwork class.
Includes:
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Planning a 60-minute group Matwork class
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Delivering and evaluating the class
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20-minute follow-up professional discussion with an assessor
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Assessment 5: Pilates Matwork Program Portfolio
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Design and implement a progressive Pilates program for a client.
Includes:
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Pre-exercise health screening and lifestyle assessment
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Progressive 10-session Pilates program (including one detailed session plan)
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Evidence of delivering the planned sessions
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Program evaluation
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Development of a business plan
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Professional discussion with an assessor
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Assessment Progression
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Complete the course at your own pace.
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Assessments are designed to build progressively on your knowledge and teaching skills.
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If attending the face-to-face course, it is recommended that you complete all theory assessments and portfolio components before your practical training days.
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This allows you to maximise your hands-on learning with your educator and focus on developing your teaching skills.
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Your practical teaching assessment will be completed during the scheduled face-to-face training, where you will plan, deliver and evaluate a Pilates Matwork class under the guidance of your assessor.
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Your assessor will provide guidance and support throughout each stage of the assessment process.
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COURSE CURRICULUM OVERVIEW
Anatomy and Physiology Basics
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of anatomical principles as they relate to Pilates, covering the muscular and skeletal systems, and the planes of movement.
- Learn about the anatomy of the shoulder complex including the muscles and bones. Then how to apply this knowledge to teach exercises that promote scapular stability.
- Learn about the muscles and bones of the torso, and how to teach exercise that focus on core engagement and spinal alignment safely and effectively.
- Learn about the anatomy of the hip including teaching clients exercises that focus on proper alignment and joint safety.
- Learn about the bones and muscles of the knee and ankle and how to teach Pilates leg exercises focused on safe alignment and mobility.
Alignment and Mobilisation
- Develop an understanding of proper alignment, starting with a neutral spine and pelvis.
- Learn to instruct clients through targeted mobility exercises by developing both clear verbal instructions and effective hands-on adjustments (non-verbal cues) to enhance flexibility.
Origins and History of Pilates
- Develop your understanding of the origins of Pilates and its consequent evolution where we will dive into exploring original exercises and then adapting them to teaching in a more modern and contemporary way.
Principles of Pilates
- Learn not only the principles of Pilates and breathing but also how to incorporate them into your instructing.
PRACTICAL TEACHING, PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT AND BUSINESS SKILLS
TEACHING THEORY
- Develop your understanding of sequencing and class planning so you’re able to create effective, adaptable classes for both group and one-on-one clients.
Health & Safety Principles
- Cover Work Place Health and Safety, hygiene issues and risk minimisation by learning how to prep your class space, and effectively communicate with your clients.
Self Practice and Teaching Mastery
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Self-Mastery: Complete at least 20 hours of self-mastery practice and evaluation, whereby you would practice the exercises yourself, learning the setup, movement, breathing and muscle focus of each exercise.
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Teaching Mastery: Practice teaching friends and family, and then when you’re ready, complete
Assessment 5: Pilates Portfolio. A one-on-one Pilates program and evaluation
and Assessment 4: Practical Assessment.If completing the face-to-face delivery, Assessment 4: Practical Assessment will
occur on the final day of the course
Business Skills
- Learn how to market yourself as a new instructor, find a job, build a client base, and turn your passion for Pilates into any vision you have for yourself.
THEORETICAL ASSESSMENT
- Demonstrate your understanding of the online theory by completing an online quiz.
MAT PILATES SPECIALISATION CURRICULUM
Activation, Fundamental and Stretching Repertoires
- Master the essential activation exercises to ensure correct activation and alignment to then progress to the Pilates beginner exercises, focusing on verbal cueing then hands on tactile cueing to build your foundation to build your teaching framework upon.
- Learn the stretching repertoire so you can confidently sprinkle stretching and mobility exercises though your class or deliver a focused stretching block at the end of your class that focuses on enhancing flexibility, and releasing tension.
Beginner Repertoire
- Master teaching the beginner-level Mat Pilates repertoire with confidence.
- Learn how to correct alignment, emphasising proper form through clear verbal cues and hands-on adjustments to help clients develop strength and stability in their foundational exercises.
Intermediate Repertoire
- Develop your teaching skills of the intermediate Pilates repertoire, including using props to adapt the exercises in a more contemporary style class.
Standing and Advanced Repertoire
- Develop your confidence in teaching advanced dynamic standing Pilates flows.
- Learn how to program creative and contemporary classes with dynamic movements while introducing both progressions or modifications to teach all levels.
Antenatal and Post Natal Modifications
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of when and how to modify Matwork exercises safely for prenatal and postnatal populations.
Practical Assessment
- Demonstrate your teaching skills by programming and instructing a Matwork class showcasing all the skills and techniques learned throughout the course.
FAQs
Why Body Athletica
Globally Recognised: Stand out with a qualification respected worldwide, opening doors to teach anywhere, from local studios to international retreats.
Expert-Led Courses: Learn from the best in the industry, including our founder, Jules.
Flexible Learning: Choose between our dynamic online platform or in-person sessions. Tailor your learning experience to fit your lifestyle.
Comprehensive Curriculum: From mat to reformer, we cover it all and you’ll gain the confidence needed to teach your first class.
Post-Course Support: Join our community and continue your growth.
Is there any pre-course engagement?
Jumpstart your Pilates training with a recommended 25 hours of Pilates Personal experience.
This will ensure you love Pilates and want to become an instructor and have some experience in classes.
What's the difference between the online and face to face courses?
Both methods offer our top-tier curriculum. Online training provides flexibility, allowing you to learn at your own pace from anywhere in the world.
Face-to-face training offers a more hands-on experience, with real-time feedback and the chance to connect personally with instructors and peers.
How long does it take to complete the course?
COURSE DELIVERY MAT:
2 Weekend Structure
2026 Face to Face delivery
3 days in person delivery
Practical Assessment included in face-to-face days
2027 Face to Face delivery
4 days in person delivery
Practical Assessment included in face-to-face days
8-day intensive structure (Bali, Sri Lanka, Tulum)
8 days in person delivery, mornings only (8-11am, Hosted at Villa)
Practical Assessment included in face-to-face days
COURSE DELIVERY REFORMER:
2026 Face to Face delivery
4 days in person delivery
Practical Assessment included in face-to-face days
2027 Face to Face delivery
4 days in person delivery
Practical Assessment included in face-to-face days
8-day intensive structure (Bali, Sri Lanka, Tulum)
8 days in person delivery, afternoons only (12-4pm at Bali Studio or Affiliate
Studio)
Practical Assessment included in face-to-face days
Bali studio open to practice the week before the course
What self study and observation do I need to complete?
We encourage all theory assessments and professional discussions to be
completed before the face-to-face days. This includes your anatomy and
physiology study, Pilates and teaching theory as well as workplace health and
safety and client engagement study. If completing the face to face course,
Assessment 4: Practical Assessment is completed during the face to face
component of the course.
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in the course?
Our Mat course is designed for anyone wanting to become a Mat Pilates Instructor. There are no pre-requisites however, it is recommended that you have attended at least 25 Mat classes before you enrol.
Is my Body Athletica qualification recognised internationally?
Body Athletica is officially recognised by AUSactive and Pilates Aotearoa, confirming that our certifications align with the highest industry standards in safety, professionalism, and continuing education.
Additionally, you may claim professional development points when you complete this course if you are a member of any of our affiliate health or fitness bodies.
Nationally recognised in:
United Kingdom (YMCA awards)
Australia (AUSactive)
Recognised by Pilates Aotearoa New Zealand
- Accepted in multiple countries across the US, Europe, Singapore, and more
- Trusted by employers in studios, gyms, and boutique settings everywhere you go!
- Our graduates are teaching globally, taking their certifications with them
- Meets rigorous industry standards for professional practice, safety, and ethics
- Supports ongoing professional development and career progression
How can I get support after purchasing?
Our friendly team of trainers are available throughout your learning journey via email, WhatsApp or a book in phone call. Whatever support you need we are here to ensure you get it.
How Much does it cost?
The total investment depends on your mode of study.
ONLINE ONLY delivery is $1800 AUD (payment plans and after pay available)
FACE TO FACE delivery $2,700 AUD (payment plans and after pay available)
This gives you 12 month access to your online portal, your downloadable manual and our extensive exercise video library as well as access to our private Body Athletica Pilates Facebook community.
Our Locations
Australia
- Sydney
- Melbourne
- Perth
- Gold Coast
- Hobart
- Canberra
- Adelaide
Asia
- Canggu, Bali
- Singapore
- Ahangama, Sri Lanka
New Zealand
- Lake Wanaka
United Kingdom
- Belfast
- Manchester
- Bristol
- Edinburgh
- Glasgow
Europe
- Dublin
- Berlin
- Zurich
- Amsterdam
- Helengo
- Copenhagen
- Austria
- Vienna / Bratislava
- Portugal
North & South America
- Tulum Mexico
- Guadalajara
PRICING & STUDY OPTIONS
Mat Face-to-Face
$2,700 AUD
Mat Online Only
$1,800 AUD
Mat + Reformer Face-to-Face
$4,500 AUD
Mat + Reformer Online Only
$2,700 AUD
UPCOMING INTAKES
DOWNLOAD OUR COURSE GUIDE
Our International Community of graduates say great things about our courses.
Over 1000 students trained worldwide