Who is eligible for our Comprehensive Teacher Training Program?

Whether you are looking to begin a new career, enhance your current position in the wellness industry, or deepen your personal Pilates practice, all people are welcome to participate in SPRING. Movement’s Teacher Training program. Course participants must be at least 18 years of age at the time of the course start date. No applicant will be denied on the basis of an individual’s race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, veteran status or any other status protected by federal, state, and local laws or ordinances.

How much Pilates do I need to have done before becoming taking a Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training?

We recommend students have a minimum of six months of Pilates experience prior to commencing our Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training Program, and to be familiar with the exercises. This not only helps you better understand the teaching material as it is presented, but also helps you to have a better understanding of what you are going to be teaching your future clients. We will teach you all you need to know to become a confident, versatile, and accomplished Pilates professional, therefore no prior teaching experience is necessary, though any and all experience is helpful.

How long does it take to complete the Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training Program?

The Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training Program includes Anatomy Foundations, Mat Pilates, Reformer Pilates & Jumpboard, Cadillac, Chair, & Barrels, and Prenatal & Postnatal certifications. Students may choose to work through each certification at their own pace and test out one certification at a time. Typically, students work through the Comprehensive Program within 12 - 18 months. Depending on each student’s individual goals and availability to commit to each certification, however, the Comprehensive Program may take up to 24 months to complete successfully. It is not recommended that the Comprehensive Program be completed any quicker than 12 months, even if the student’s commitment to the Program is on a full-time basis.

I love Pilates! Does that make becoming a Pilates teacher the right career choice for me?

Having a passion for Pilates is certainly a great start to your career as a Pilates teacher. Before signing up for SPRING. Movement’s Teacher Training Program, we recommend you also take into consideration the many factors that contribute to becoming a Pilates teacher. Here’s what SPRING. Movement believes are important character traits in order to ensure this career choice is right for you:

• a passion for working with people,

• exceptional communication and interpersonal skills,

• patience,

• kindness,

• a desire for ongoing learning,

• and a love for being active.

Please also consider that depending on your studio’s work environment, you’ll potentially be working early mornings, evenings, and weekends.

Do I have to come from a dance background to become a Pilates teacher?

No, you do not need any dance experience to be a world-class Pilates teacher! Dance experience can help enhance your understanding of how the body moves, however, this can also be gained with various other movement styles and exercise, including yoga, gymnastics, swimming, and martial arts etc. If you have noticed a large number of Pilates teachers also have backgrounds in dance, this is typically due to the fact that Pilates is part of their training, and teaching Pilates is often a great supplement to their careers, offering flexible working hours, which allows for performing, auditioning, and studying.

Can I work full-time as a Pilates teacher?

Absolutely! Like with any new venture, it can take time to build a clientele that supports your work on a full time basis, especially if you are transitioning from another career. Typically, new graduates will build their weekly class schedule to supplement their primary work, and when they reach the point where they’ve established enough consistent classes and privates, they will make the transition over to full time teaching, balancing a mix of group classes and privates.

Can Pilates teachers receive health benefits and retirement savings?

Health benefits and retirement savings are typically not available to teachers who teach at multiple studios, or less than ‘full time’ hours at one particular workplace. Depending on the studio or workplace, teachers may qualify for health benefits and retirement savings. If you wish to receive benefits from a workplace, this should be discussed at the time of employment to ensure you make the right choice when accepting a teaching position or professional opportunity. If seeking a position in at studio that offers health benefits and retirement savings to full time teachers teaching 20+ hours per week, we highly recommend applying for a position at East River Pilates, located in Brooklyn, NY.

What is the maximum number of students for each course?

Our Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training Programs have the following capacity for each Certification:

• Anatomy Foundations: On demand / learn at your own pace / no limitation

• Mat Pilates: 22 students

• Reformer Pilates & Jumpboard: 14 students

• Cadillac, Chair, & Barrels: 6 students

• Prenatal & Postnatal: 22 students for live sessions, no limitation for on demand option / learn at your own pace

What is the payment process for each course?

SPRING. Movement is a cashless company, and accepts payments via Stripe, which allows students to select their preferred payment method from any one of the following options:

• Credit Card

• Apple Pay

• Link

• ACH direct debit

• Cash App Pay

• Amazon Pay

• Klarna (for payment plans)

For payment plans, select Klarna at checkout. Early Bird rates are available up until one month before the course commencement date.

Is SPRING. Movement’s Teacher Training Program PMA/NPCP approved?

The PMA (Pilates Method Alliance) is a Professional Association for Pilates Teachers. The PMA Certification Program is now referred to as the NPCP (National Pilates Certification Program).

SPRING. Movement’s Comprehensive Teacher Training program successfully meets the minimum requirements as set by the NPCP. We are also currently in the process of becoming a PSAP school through the PSAP (Pilates School Approval Program), which involves a two year application process in which our curriculum, facilities, teachers, the way we keep student files, safety and maintenance etc are assessed.

Once completing our Comprehensive Teacher Training program, we encourage students to apply to become NPCP certified, which involves an exam and is available to any candidate who meets the following eligibility requirements:

• 18 years of age

• Verification of having completed comprehensive training in Pilates

Comprehensive training must be minimally 450 hours in length and cover mat and the following apparatuses:

• Reformer

• Trapeze Table

• Wunda Chair

• Ladder Barrel

• Spine Corrector

• Pilates Ring

For more information, visit NPCP’s website.

Teacher Training Communication Policy

For all inquiries related to SPRING. Movement Programs, please direct your communication to hello@springmovement.com. Our team is committed to responding promptly and ensuring that you receive the assistance or information you need.

Schedule Policy

SPRING. Movement reserves the right to modify the scheduled educator for its Comprehensive Teacher Training Program if unforeseen circumstances arise. In such cases, SPRING. Movement will strive to provide prior notice and ensure that the substitute educator meets the program's high standards of expertise and professionalism.

Refund Policies

In the event that a student is no longer able to attend or wants to withdraw from any SPRING. Movement Teacher Training certification or course, the following refund policies apply.

General Refund Information:

• All refunds will be processed within 72 hours after receiving written notice of withdrawal from the course.

• The official date of withdrawal or termination will be determined based on:

• The date on which the school receives written notice of the student’s intention to discontinue the training program, OR

• The date on which the student violates published school policy, which provides for termination.

• For students who fail to return from a leave of absence, the effective date of termination will be:

• The earlier date the school determines the student is not returning, OR

• The day following the expected return date.

Important Note Regarding Refunds for Pricing Bundles: 

• If a student purchases a pricing bundle (such as ‘The Studio Bundle’ or ‘Comprehensive Program’), and they have completed part of the included courses but request a refund for the remaining course(s), this will negate the pricing bundle price. 

• The refund will then be calculated based on the price of each individual certification within the bundle, and the remaining amount will be prorated according to the individual certification’s refund policy.

Mat Pilates Certification Refund Policy (Timeline & Eligible Refund)

• Before enrollment into LearnUpon: 100%

• After enrollment into LearnUpon, before first Live Workshop date commences:100% minus $500

• After Live Workshop 2, before Live Workshop 3: 80% minus $500

• After Live Workshop 4, before Live Workshop 5: 50% minus $500

• After Workshop 5: No refund

• The student will receive a full refund of tuition paid if the school cancels a scheduled course.

Reformer Pilates & Jumpboard Certification Refund Policy (Timeline & Eligible Refund)

• Before enrollment into LearnUpon | 100%

• After enrollment into LearnUpon, before first Live Workshop date commences | 100% minus $500

• After Live Workshop 2, before Live Workshop 3 | 80% minus $500

• After Live Workshop 4, before Live Workshop 5 | 50% minus $500

• After Workshop 5 | No refund

• The student will receive a full refund of tuition paid if the school cancels a scheduled course.

Cadillac, Chair, & Barrels Certification Refund Policy  (Timeline & Eligible Refund)

• Before enrollment into LearnUpon | 100%

• After enrollment into LearnUpon, before first Live Workshop date commences | 100% minus $500

• After Live Workshop 2, before Live Workshop 3 | 80% minus $500

• After Live Workshop 4, before Live Workshop 5 | 50% minus $500

• After Workshop 5 | No refund

• The student will receive a full refund of tuition paid if the school cancels a scheduled course.

On Demand Certifications Refund Policy (Anatomy Foundations, Prenatal & Postnatal)

• No refunds

Attendance Policy

Students are expected to arrive on time for all workshops, whether virtual or in-person, fully prepared with necessary learning materials and ready to engage. Punctuality and active participation are essential for the successful completion of SPRING. Movement’s Teacher Training Program.

Attendance Requirements:

• Attendance of 100% of scheduled in-studio or virtual learning hours is mandatory for program completion.

• Any missed hours must be made up through a makeup session, which will incur an additional fee. Details are provided in the ‘Make Up Session Policy.’

• SPRING. Movement reserves the right to request a student’s withdrawal from the program if absences or tardiness exceed 25% of live workshop hours.

Notifying SPRING. Movement:

• If you are running late or unable to attend due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances, please notify SPRING. Movement by logging into LearnUpon and directly messaging the scheduled educator via the LearnUpon Inbox.

Virtual Learning Expectations:

• Students must log into Zoom at the scheduled time using the provided meeting link.

Video must remain on for the entire duration of all virtual learning sessions to ensure active participation.

By adhering to these guidelines, students can make the most of their training experience and maintain the integrity of the certification process.

Make Up Session Policy

SPRING. Movement is committed to maintaining the highest standards for its Teacher Training Program. Attendance of 100% of scheduled workshop hours—whether virtual live sessions for the Mat Pilates Certification or in-person sessions for the Reformer Pilates & Jumpboard Certification and the Cadillac, Chair, & Barrels Certification—is mandatory for program completion. Below, the makeup session processes for each type of certification are outlined to ensure students meet these attendance requirements.

Make Up Policy for Absences: Mat Pilates Certification

Each scheduled live workshop for the Mat Pilates Certification consists of two sessions, separated by a 30-minute break. Missing any portion of a session will result in the student being marked as absent for that entire workshop session. As a result:

• The student’s progression through the online course will be blocked.

• They will be ineligible to receive a certificate of attendance or completion until the missed session is made up.

Makeup Process:

• Students who miss one or more live workshop sessions will be enrolled in the corresponding Mat Pilates Certification Makeup Course(s) via LearnUpon.

• The makeup course must be completed in full prior to the next scheduled live workshop session.

• Once the makeup course is completed, SPRING. Movement Administration will manually mark the workshop as complete, enabling the student to continue their learning pathway.

Fees for Makeup Sessions:

• 2.5 hour session: $90 (equivalent to missing half a workshop).

• 5 hour session: $180 (equivalent to missing a full workshop).

Important Notes:

• If any portion of a live session is missed, the student will be required to complete the makeup course for the full session.

• Failure to successfully complete the makeup session will result in the student being unable to progress in the program and ineligible to receive a certificate of attendance or completion.

• By adhering to this policy, SPRING. Movement ensures that all students meet the program's rigorous standards and are prepared for certification success.

Policy for Absences: Reformer Pilates & Jumpboard Certification and Cadillac, Chair, & Barrels Certification

Each scheduled live workshop for the Reformer Pilates & Jumpboard Certification and Cadillac, Chair, & Barrels Certifications require 100% attendance. Missing any portion of the workshop will result in the student being marked as absent for the entire session. As a result:

• The student will be ineligible to receive a certificate of attendance or completion until the missed session is made up.

• The student must attend a makeup session in an upcoming cohort to fulfill their attendance requirements.

Makeup Process:

Workshop Observation:

• The makeup session involves attending the same 5-hour workshop(s) missed, during the next available cohort.

• Students will observe the workshop rather than physically participate. They are expected to engage by taking notes, asking questions where appropriate, and being punctual and respectful throughout the session.

Deadline for Completion:

Students must complete their makeup session(s) within 12 months of their first scheduled workshop date. Failure to do so will result in the student being unable to complete the certification program.

Fee Structure:

• A fee of $240 per workshop will be charged for makeup sessions.

• If any portion of the original workshop is missed, the student will be required to attend and pay for the full makeup session. Proration is not available.

Important Notes:

• Students who miss a workshop will not be able to complete the program until the missed session is successfully made up.

• Completion of the makeup session will satisfy attendance requirements and allow the student to proceed toward certification.

By adhering to this policy, SPRING. Movement ensures that students meet the rigorous standards required to achieve certification success.

Leave of Absence Policy

SPRING. Movement recognizes that unforeseen circumstances may prevent students from completing their program. In such cases, students may request a formal leave of absence (LOA) for up to one year, subject to the following conditions:

Eligibility and Requirements:

• Personal or Family Circumstances:

• Submit a written request detailing the reason for the leave to SPRING. Movement.

• Medical Reasons:

• Provide a note from a licensed medical professional substantiating the need for a leave of absence.

• Pregnancy:

• Students taking leave due to pregnancy are granted an additional 12 months to return.

Note: Failure to attend classes without filing an approved LOA does not constitute an official leave and may result in loss of tuition payments or withdrawal from the program.

Length of Leave

• Short-Term Leave (1–6 weeks):

• Submit a written explanation or medical documentation.

• Students may continue their registration for the current program upon return.

• Full tuition must be paid as scheduled if on an installment plan.

• Extended Leave (Over 6 weeks):

• Treated as a formal withdrawal. Refunds (if applicable) will be determined by the refund policy.

• Students wishing to return must reapply and may be required to start a new course. Tuition will be adjusted proportionately based on the hours needed to complete the program.

Payment and Reentry

• Prepaid Tuition:

• The program fee is retained, and the student may join the next available training course without additional charges.

• Installment Plans:

• Payments must continue as scheduled for the initial course attempt.

• Returning from Leave

• Students must return within one year of the approved LOA. For medical or injury-related leaves, a medical certificate may be required before resuming classes.

This policy ensures that students facing challenges can take time off while maintaining the opportunity to continue their training when circumstances allow.

Test Out Extension Policy

SPRING. Movement requires students to complete all coursework, attend all live training sessions (if applicable), complete any required makeup courses, and successfully Test Out to receive their certificate of completion. For on-demand courses, students must complete all requirements within 365 days from their enrollment date. For certifications with live training sessions, students have 365 days from the date of their first scheduled live workshop to fulfill all requirements. Students who are unable to meet their respective deadlines may request a one-time, three-month extension. 

To request an extension

Students must submit a written request to SPRING. Administration a minimum of two (2) weeks prior to their initial deadline.

Extension Details

Approved extensions will extend access to all course materials in LearnUpon until the new three-month deadline.

Extension Fees

A fee will apply, based on the type of course:

• On-Demand Courses: $100 (extension applied from the enrollment date)

• Certifications with Live Training Sessions: $350 (extension applied from the date of the first live workshop)

Please note, extensions are granted only once per student. Failure to complete the requirements within the extended period will result in the need to re-enroll in the program at full tuition.

Practical Test Out Cancellation Policy

We understand that life can be unpredictable. Thank you for respecting our educators' time and honoring our strict 48 hour cancellation policy for all Practical Test Out bookings. Please note that all booking cancellations or changes must be formally requested in writing via email a minimum of 48 hours prior to the confirmed Practical Test Out booking in order to avoid additional charges.

• Early cancellations: Cancellations or changes made before 48 hours of the booking time are considered 'early cancellations' and are eligible for reimbursement in the form of Test Out booking credit.

• Late cancellations: Cancellations or changes made within 48 hours of the booking time are considered 'late cancellations' and are not eligible for a Test Out booking credit.

Conduct Policy

SPRING. Movement is committed to fostering a supportive, respectful, and inclusive learning environment. To maintain these standards, all students are expected to:

Demonstrate Professionalism:

• Act maturely and respectfully towards peers, educators, and faculty members. This includes honoring the property, assets, and traditions of SPRING. Movement and affiliated studios.

Engage Actively:

• Participate fully in all aspects of the program, including asking and answering questions, collaborating in group work, and contributing to discussions. Class participation is a key measure of student progress.

Foster a Positive Environment:

• Interactions must remain civil, respectful, and supportive at all times, promoting a collaborative and uplifting atmosphere for all.

If a concern arises, students are encouraged to address it promptly by speaking with their educator, mentor, or SPRING. Movement Administration. By adhering to this policy, students contribute to a productive and enriching learning experience for everyone.

Homework Policy

To ensure success in SPRING. Movement’s Teacher Training Program, students are required to actively engage with all assigned coursework through the online Learning Pathway hosted on SPRING. Movement’s Education Portal, LearnUpon.

Expectations

• Course Completion:

• Students must complete all online courses within the designated timeframe, including pre-reading, homework assignments, and knowledge checks.

• Workshop Preparation:

• Homework assignments are mandatory and designed to prepare students for practical discussions during live training sessions. Students are expected to review workshop content thoroughly and come prepared to actively engage.

• Prerequisites:

• All assigned coursework, including pre-reading and prerequisite studies, must be completed prior to attending workshop hours.

By meeting these expectations, students will maximize their learning experience and ensure they are fully prepared for both the theoretical and practical components of their training.

Consent Policy

SPRING. Movement is committed to fostering a respectful and professional learning environment. Consent is mandatory for any tactile feedback or physical touch during training.

Obtaining Consent:

• Before engaging in any physical touch or tactile feedback with a student, explicit consent must always be obtained, especially when working with new students.

Right to Consensual Practice:

• All students have the right to decline tactile feedback or physical touch at any time. This choice must be respected without question or judgment.

By prioritizing consent, we ensure a safe and supportive learning space for all participants.

Dismissal Policy

SPRING. Movement is committed to maintaining a positive and productive learning environment. To uphold these standards, SPRING. Movement reserves the right to dismiss any student from the program for violations of policies or unacceptable conduct.

Grounds for Dismissal

• Violations of SPRING. Movement’s policies, including but not limited to the Conduct Policy.

• Disruptive or unacceptable behavior that impacts the academic setting or the learning experience of others.

Suspension and Re-Admittance

• Students whose conduct is deemed disruptive may be temporarily suspended.

• Re-admittance will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the program director, contingent on the student demonstrating a genuine desire to learn and a commitment to conform to program standards.

Refunds

• In the event of dismissal, the Refund Eligibility Policy will apply. Any unused portion of the training program fee will be refunded based on the terms outlined in the policy.

By adhering to these guidelines, SPRING. Movement ensures a respectful and enriching learning environment for all participants.

No Guarantee of Employment Policy

Completion of SPRING. Movement’s Teacher Training Program does not guarantee employment at any other Pilates studio, gym, or fitness/wellness facility.

Transfer of Credits Policy

SPRING. Movement does not guarantee the transferability of its credits to another institution unless there is a formal written agreement in place with that institution.

SPRING. Movement’s Policy on Transferring Credits from Another School

Students who have completed a Mat Pilates Course at another studio are eligible for SPRING. Movement’s Reformer Pilates & Jumpboard Certification and Cadillac, Chair, & Barrels Certification after successfully completing SPRING.’s Bridging Program. This program ensures that students possess the necessary foundation in anatomy, the SPRING. Pilates principles, and Mat Pilates repertoire to succeed in advanced certifications.

Student Files 

Students may review their complete file by requesting a virtual appointment with SPRING. Movement.

No Discrimination Policy

SPRING. Movement is committed to maintaining an inclusive and respectful learning and working environment, free from discrimination or harassment. Discrimination in any form is prohibited and includes, but is not limited to, actions based on: race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

All individuals have the right to work and study in an atmosphere that promotes equal employment and learning opportunities, where practices are free from bias and unfair treatment. Any form of discrimination or harassment—whether in decisions related to employment, academic progression, or other interactions—will not be tolerated.

No Harassment Policy

SPRING. Movement is committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment free from harassment. Harassment of any kind, whether verbal, non-verbal, physical, or written, based on an individual’s race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law, is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated.

Definition of Harassment:

Harassment is generally defined as unwelcome verbal or non-verbal conduct that denigrates or shows hostility toward an individual based on their protected characteristic. This behavior can negatively affect employment opportunities or benefits, interfere unreasonably with work performance, or create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working environment.

Examples of harassment include, but are not limited to:

Epithets, slurs or negative stereotyping, threatening, intimidating, or hostile acts, denigrating jokes, the display or circulation of written or graphic material that degrades or shows hostility toward an individual or group based on protected characteristics.

Sexual Harassment Definition:

Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature that:

• Is made either explicitly or implicitly a condition of employment

• Forms the basis for employment decisions

• Unreasonably interferes with work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work environment

Examples of sexual harassment include, but are not limited to:

Unwelcome or unsolicited sexual advances, displaying sexually suggestive material, unwelcome flirtations, advances, or propositions, suggestive comments, verbal abuse of a sexual nature, sexually oriented jokes, crude or vulgar language or gestures, graphic or verbal commentaries about an individual’s body, display or distribution of obscene materials, physical contact such as patting, pinching, or brushing against someone, physical assault of a sexual nature.

SPRING. Movement takes harassment very seriously. Any student or employee found in violation of this policy will face disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal or termination.

Harassment and Discrimination Complaint Procedure

Any student, employee, or client who believes they have been subjected to harassment or discrimination, or who has witnessed or been made aware of such behavior in violation of SPRING. Movement’s policies should immediately bring the matter to the attention of SPRING. Movement.

SPRING. Movement is committed to creating an environment where individuals feel safe to report concerns without fear of retaliation. No student, employee, or client will face retaliation for making a complaint in good faith regarding a violation of these policies, or for participating in a related investigation. If an employee, student, or client believes they have been subjected to retaliation, they should file a formal complaint with SPRING. Movement Program management.

Investigation and Action

SPRING. Movement will promptly and thoroughly investigate all allegations of discrimination and harassment. Based on the findings of the investigation, appropriate action will be taken, which may include:

• Counseling

• Disciplinary warnings

• Demotion

• Dismissal from a teacher training course

• Termination of employment

The individual who raised the concern will be informed of the investigation’s outcome in a timely manner. SPRING. Movement is dedicated to ensuring a fair and respectful process for all involved.

Drug-Free Policy

Students are strictly prohibited from unlawfully consuming, distributing, possessing, selling, or using controlled substances while at work, attending live training sessions, on company premises, or while engaged in any company-related activities. The use of prescription drugs or over-the-counter medications, when taken in accordance with medical guidance, is exempt from this policy.
Any student found in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, which may include, but is not limited to:

• Disciplinary warnings

• Dismissal from teacher training courses

• Termination of employment

SPRING. Movement is committed to maintaining a safe, healthy, and productive learning environment.

Property Removal Policy

SPRING. Movement strictly prohibits the unauthorized removal or use of company property or equipment for personal or commercial purposes. This policy applies to, but is not limited to:

• Props

• Merchandise

• Equipment

• Technological devices

• Towels

• Any other items belonging to SPRING. Movement or affiliate studio locations

No studio property may be removed from the premises without prior written authorization from management. This policy is in place to ensure the proper use and care of SPRING. Movement’s assets and to maintain a professional environment. Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination or dismissal from training programs.

Grievance Policy

To address grievances, students are encouraged to follow these steps:

Step 1: Informal Resolution (Optional)

• Students are encouraged, but not required, to address grievances directly with the individual involved when appropriate and safe to do so. 

• If informal resolution is not feasible or fails to resolve the issue, students may proceed directly to the formal grievance process by contacting the Program Director.

Step 2: Escalation to Program Director

• If informal resolution is not feasible, or if the issue remains unresolved, the student should escalate the matter by speaking with the Program Director. The Program Director will review the concern and work with the student to achieve a resolution.

SPRING. Movement values open communication and strives to resolve all grievances promptly and equitably.