Pilates Teacher Training & Mentorship
Connecting aspiring and qualifying instructors with industry-leading classical Pilates education in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and surrounding areas.
At The Pilates Barns, we are passionate about upholding the highest standards of evidence-based, classical Pilates instruction. We proudly partner with trusted master educators to host quality teacher training courses in our Luton Hoo and St Albans studios and support trainee instructors across the region.
Upcoming Courses
YMCA Level 3 Mat Work Diploma
Delivered by Naomi Di Fabio at The Pilates Barns
Designed for aspiring instructors and fitness professionals looking to build an authentic foundation in classical mat Pilates movement, functional anatomy, and movement optimism. Hosted in our quiet, mirror-free and fully equipped studio environment.
- Sat 24 & Sun 25 April and Sat 22 & Sun 23 May 2027
- Saturdays 2pm to 7pm, Sundays 9am to 5pm
- Pilates Barns Studio, St Albans
- Limited to just 10 places
- YMCA L3 Accredited
- £1600 including VAT
What will I learn?
- Pilates history and context
- Mat Pilates repertoire
- Modifications, adaptations and progressions
- Class programming
- Develop teaching skills
- Incorporating small equipment (balls, bands, weights, magic circle)
- Applied anatomy and physiology
Pre-Requisites
No previous teaching experience is required but participation in mat work classes is required.
How many hours is it?
Total qualification time is 443 – 473 hours. 26 hours of this is in person training. There is a significant amount of theory, personal practice and assessment preparation to complete before and after the in-person training days and it takes on average, 4 – 8 months to complete.
What happens in the assessment?
1. Anatomy and Physiology theory assessment (10 x multiple choice tests)
2. History and benefits of Pilates worksheet/presentation
3. 20 hours of logged personal practice, plus a video submission of them doing Matwork exercises and a self-evaluation with areas to develop
4. Exercise analysis worksheet of the 34 original Contrology mat exercises
5. Plan, deliver, teach and evaluate a group Mat Pilates session
6. Conduct a bespoke client-work project: consultation, planning of 10 progressive sessions working towards their goals, delivery and evaluation
There are also professional discussions to complete with their assessor and a video submission of teaching a group class.
FAQS
Do I need to be a qualified instructor already?
No. No previous teaching experience is required, but you do need to have taken a minimum of 40 mat Pilates classes.
When and where does the course run?
Over four days across two weekends: Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 April 2027, then Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 May 2027. Saturdays run 2pm to 7pm and Sundays 9am to 5pm. The course is held in St Albans, and we’ll confirm the exact venue when you book.
How much does it cost, and what’s included?
£1,600 including VAT. This covers your pre-course learning, all assessments, online course access, workbooks and your YMCA Level 3 certificate. Instalment plan available by arrangement.
How many hours is the qualification?
Total qualification time is 443 to 473 hours. This includes theory, personal practice and assessment preparation, much of it completed before and after the in-person days.
How is it assessed?
You complete an anatomy and physiology theory assessment, a history and benefits of Pilates worksheet or presentation, and 20 hours of logged personal practice with a video submission. You also complete an exercise analysis of the 34 original Contrology mat Pilates exercises, plan and teach a group Mat Pilates session, and run a client project of 10 progressive sessions. There are also professional discussions with your assessor and a video of you teaching a group class.
What if I can’t attend one of the days?
You will have all the content in the online learning portal so you won’t be missing theory or learning exercises but more practical implementation. We can discuss additional time for in person practice.
How many places are there?
Just 10, so everyone gets plenty of hands-on feedback.
How do I book?
Press “Enquire & Register Interest” and we’ll be in touch with the next steps.
Our Education Partners
Naomi Di Fabio
Naomi is founder of Fearless Fitness Training Academy. She is passionate about helping people move fearlessly and regaining confidence in what their body is capable of.
Naomi delivers a range of teacher training options from internationally recognised L3 Mat Pilates to Full Comprehensive Training. She will teach you the original Pilates Method but tailored for the modern studio.
With Naomi, not only will you learn the movements, you will learn how to confidently teach the people in front of you.
Clare, owner of Pilates Barns, says: “Naomi is a hugely knowledgeable teacher, and her courses are fun and interesting. The resources she provides are comprehensive and extensive. I highly recommend her courses and we are delighted to be able to host her at our studios.”
Joanne Cobbe
Joanne Cobbe is founder of JPilates Training and Education. She has an experienced team of people assisting her in her studio in Whitstable.
JPilates offers a range of training from Mat Pilates to Reformer training, plus all other pieces of Pilates apparatus.
Joanne passionately believes in striking a balance between honouring the original repertoire and teaching a creative and evolved approach.
Clare, owner of Pilates Barns, says: “Joanne has a wealth of knowledge and experience to bring to the Pilates world. Our own teacher, Heidi, trained with Joanne and the knowledge passed on is evident. We welcome any JPilates students into our studio to develop their own self practice.”
For courses at JPilates, enquire direct.
