Pilates Method Alliance

Pilates Method Alliance is a not for profit association that regulates and sets the standard for pilates education on an international scope. It can be said that the PMA is the standard bearer of the pilates method.

The PMA is generally considered to monitor Pilates education standards to ensure that only the most authentic and rigorous pilates training programs receive membership in their organization.

Why might you seek out PMA? Because the PMA is the leading regulator of Pilates standards in the United States in the world, almost all legitimate, reputable, and well-established pilates training programs are members of the PMA.

If you are seeking information regarding the experience and certification of a Pilates instructor, the PMA should be your first stop for information. Furthermore, if you are looking for a reputable training program, the PMA should also be your primary source for legitimate information.

With the surging popularity of pilates, many studios and training programs have seemingly sprang up over night. Many Pilates experts have noted that there is currently a lack of sufficient instruction in this popular fitness routine.

The PMA stands as one of the best resources for the pilates student or would be teacher to find the information they need to study pilates or to train to become an instructor.

History of the Pilates Method Alliance

In 2005, the PMA established a rigorous industry wide certification program and exam for teaching the pilates method. The PMA has also been responsible for creating specifics standards and goals in pilates instruction.

Pilates training programs have adopted their recommendations for adequate pilates workshops and comprehensive training programs worldwide.

The PMA is strongly responsible for bringing professionalism and industry wide standards to the professional practice and instruction of the pilates method. The PMA has been instrumental in separating legitimate and reputable comprehensive training programs from those that lack adequate training and goals.

Goals of the Pilates Method Alliance

One of main goals of the PMA is to establish and regulate an industry wide certification exam. The exam created by the PMA is used in a variety of comprehensive training programs around the world. The exam strives to reflect the principles of pilates while incorporating new developments in the Pilates Method.
Another established goal of the PMA is to encourage the continuing education of Pilates instructors and training program directors. The development and maintenance of professional growth programs by the PMA is an important part of this goal.
The PMA also has an important role in maintaining basic standards in the practice of PMA. The organization strives to stay true to the fundamental philosophy of Joseph H. Pilates and his wife Clara intact, while incorporating new developments into the field of pilates, as well as variations in approaches to the traditional Pilates Method.
One of the PMA's most important goals is to maintain high standards for all pilates training and certification programs. The PMA retains high standards in order to achieve stability and consistency in the way pilates is taught and learned. In order for pilates professionals to become members of the PMA, they must first undergo rigorous training, and must often hold several hundred hours of training and experience under their belt before becoming certified by this prestigious fitness organization. For instance, the PMA demands that administrators must direct even entire comprehensive training programs and teachers who have several years experience in teaching pilates.
Another main goal of the PMA is promotional in nature. The PMA is widely regarded as one of the best and most important promoters of pilates. The organization is charged with informing both professional pilates practitioners and the general public with new information regarding the benefits of pilates practice.
The PMA is also one of the best resources of general pilates information for both the public and professional pilates constituents. The PMA is also charged with important administrative duties. These include keeping a complete and up to date registry of all comprehensive pilates training programs and organizations. The PMA offers a searchable database for those seeking to find qualified pilates instruction or training programs in their area. The PMA is also responsible for receiving and responding to feedback from the professional pilates community.

The PMA Philosophy on Training

The PMA philosophy in training retains high standards to ensure that pilates is always performed safely, correctly, and aligned with the fundamental principles put forth by its founders Joseph H. Pilates and his wife Clara. The PMA has also set forth their specific philosophy on instructor training programs.

Safety And Injury Prevention

According to the PMA, one of the main tenets of pilates instruction is safety and injury prevention. The PMA's officially articulated philosophy holds that injury should be avoided due to incorrect use of pilates equipment.
Injury that is caused by the student's inability to complete a certain movement or routine is unacceptable and should be actively avoided. The instructor should always make certain that the routine is commensurate with the participant's experience and fitness level.
The final tenet of safety and injury prevention has to do with the instructor's knowledge of Pilates. If the instructor suspects that their understanding of the Pilates Method is even slightly incomplete, he or she is responsible for remedying this situation through continued education until a firm understanding of the entire scope of the practice has been demonstrated.

Career As Pilates Instructor

The PMA holds high standards for all those wishing to pursue a career as a pilates instructor. Their recommendations are stringent. Those who are interested in becoming a pilates instructor must already have some experience with pilates.

They recommend that all would be instructor participate in a comprehensive training program. All comprehensive training programs that are members of PMA are required to provide their students with several hundred hours of training, which may include lecture, observation, and hands-on student teaching.

Becoming a PMA certified pilates instructor usually requires a firm commitment at several months of study. The PMA's philosophy on instructor training ensures the safety of pilates participants and the continuation of high standards in the instruction of pilates.