So, what is a Pilates certification, anyway?

I am currently working towards my comprehensive Pilates certification, with the test being on December 13.  For those of you that read this blog or follow me on social media, you know how firmly I believe that Pilates instructors should be well trained.  But what exactly is a Pilates training?  Shedding a bit of light on that today:

I am pursuing my Peak Pilates certification.  Peak Pilates is a classical certification, sanctioned by the Pilates Method Alliance.  Classical Pilates follows the specific orders and exercises created by Joseph Pilates.
Peak Pilates describes their training(s) as:
The Peak Pilates® Comprehensive Certification is a classical Pilates education program distinguished by an emphasis on Pilates as an integrated movement system as Joseph Pilates intended.

I have learned the Pilates mat work, Reformer, chair, ladder barrel, as well as other complimentary equipment, like the spine corrector and Ped-o-Pull. 

The more training I receive, the happier I am with a comprehensive, multi-level training.  Practice and studying most definitely makes perfect, and I never get nervous prior to teaching a class, a private session, giving a presentation on Pilates...my training has prepared me for all of it.
 

So, here is what I have been through:
2009:  Two 4 day trainings, 9 hours each day, followed with a full 8 hour day of testing.  The test includes a practical portion of teaching mat and equipment, being taught to in order to see that I can perform the work, and a written assessment covering Pilates instruction, anatomy and practical applications of the work.

2011:  One 4 day training, 9 hours each day followed with another full testing day, just like above, but with more in-depth training for the intermediate level.

2013:  Two 3 day trainings, 4-9 hours each day.  In December I will take part in another assessment day.  Scary but fun all at once.  After (hopefully!) passing this exam I will have gone through the beginner to advanced work and successfully tested out, showing knowledge in the exercise and method of true Pilates.  My education won't be over, though, the comprehensive certification is just my ticket into the interesting and fun world of advanced continuing education.  Learning to work with injuries, athletes, the super-advanced work...so much fun still ahead!

There are many Pilates certifications out there, some just as in-depth as mine, some more intense, some just one day in length.  Always check to see where and who certified your instructor.  The more training your instructor has, the safer you will be and the more effective the exercise will be for you.

Have you tried Pilates?  
Mat?  Reformer?
Did you know that a Pilates instructor goes through this rigorous of a training?