About Classical Pilates Teacher Training
The Classical Pilates Centre teacher training program is set up to teach teachers how to deliver Pilates the way it was developed by Joseph Pilates. The course was developed by Kirk James Smith, a second generation Pilates teacher, who has 19 years’ experience teaching Pilates. Kirk started Pilates in New York under Joseph Pilates’ protégé Romana Kryzanowska. He has also benefited from significant influence from first generation teacher Jay Grimes, and has had lessons with the incomparable Mary Bowen. The Pilates we teach is clearly in the lineage of Romana Kryzanowska.
Kirk Smith is the Course Director and oversees every course we teach. Our standards are high as we pride ourselves on producing teachers that are well equipped and confident in their skills.
In 2024 we are delighted that Classical Pilates Centre graduate and teacher trainer Sarah Janes will be leading our teacher trainer course from her studio, VIPilates in Sutton Coldfield. Check out her website: vipilates.co.uk
Why are we different?
The Classical Pilates Centre teacher training program follows the traditional approach to the education of teachers. Today some training providers have developed stand-alone courses for individual pieces of equipment. We, on the other hand continue the tradition of teaching Pilates as a system.
Each piece of equipment needs to be understood and inter-related with the others for a whole system of teaching. This is the process that Kirk James Smith undertook and wants to offer you. Even if you don’t use all the equipment in your teaching initially, it is essential to understand it’s role within the system.
We will teach you the classical repertoire, help you develop the eye for what each client needs, and the essential hands-on skills for intelligently and clearly teaching Pilates.
What is meant by “Comprehensive Certification?”
When we say “comprehensive training” we include the Mat work and the following equipment:
- Reformer
- Cadillac
- High Chair
- Wunda Chair
- Arm Chair
- Ladder Barrel
- Spine Corrector
- Arc Barrel
- Pedi Pole
- Foot Corrector
- Toe Corrector
- Bean Bag
- Neck Stretcher
- Magic Circle
- Weighted Pole
- Hand Weights