Certification Process

Before entering the teacher training program, apprentices must demonstrate consistent proficiency at the Intermediate to Advanced level within their own Pilates practice.

This means more than simply recognizing the exercises. Applicants should move confidently through the intermediate system on all major apparatus — including the Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, High Chair, Ladder Barrel, and Mat — with proper setup, transitions, spring changes, and control.

A qualified apprentice is able to:

• Execute exercises with strength, stability, and precision

• Maintain flow and continuity throughout a full intermediate workout

• Demonstrate clear understanding of spring settings and equipment setup

• Apply the Six Principles of Pilates — Concentration, Control, Centering, Precision, Flow, and Breath, —consistently in their own body

Teacher training is not where you learn the exercises for the first time. It is where you refine your understanding, deepen your discipline, and learn how to teach the system with clarity and responsibility.

All prospective apprentices must complete a formal assessment prior to acceptance into the program.

The assessment is designed to ensure that each applicant possesses the physical proficiency, technical understanding, and foundational discipline required to enter a classical teacher training program. This is not a pass-through step — it protects the integrity of the work and sets every apprentice up for success.

During the assessment, applicants will be evaluated on:

• Execution of a full intermediate workout on key apparatus

• Proper equipment setup and accurate spring settings

• Smooth, controlled transitions between exercises

• Strength, stamina, and body awareness

• Understanding and embodiment of the Six Principles of Pilates

• Ability to respond to correction and apply feedback immediately

Applicants must demonstrate consistent control, flow, and precision throughout their practice. The goal is not perfection — it is readiness.

Teacher training builds teachers. It does not build foundational practitioners. The assessment ensures that apprentices enter the program prepared to study, refine, and ultimately lead others through the classical system with clarity and confidence.

The teacher training program is divided into three progressive sections: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level builds intentionally upon the one before it, creating a comprehensive and systematic understanding of the classical Pilates method as preserved through the Romana’s Pilates lineage.

Each section begins with an in-depth seminar held in Los Angeles. During these seminars, apprentices study the full system of exercises appropriate to that level across all major apparatus — including Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chairs, Barrels, and auxiliary equipment.

Apprentices do not simply learn the exercises. They are trained to understand:

• Proper setup and accurate spring settings

• Order, transitions, and workout flow

• Teaching language and hands-on corrections

• Modifications and progressions

• The Romana’s Pilates standard for safely introducing, advancing, and challenging a client within the system

Romana’s methodology emphasizes progression with purpose. Apprentices are taught when to introduce new material, when to hold a client back, and how to advance safely while preserving the integrity of the work.

Following each seminar, apprentices return to the studio to complete a minimum of 200 apprenticeship hours before advancing to the next level. These hours include supervised teaching, observation, assisting senior instructors, structured study, and consistent personal practice.

This program is rooted in learning by doing.

Apprentices are not passive observers. They refine their understanding through repetition, correction, real-time teaching experience, and accountability. Teaching is developed through practice — not through sitting and watching.

Between seminars, apprentices participate in weekly meetings designed to prepare them for examination and deepen their comprehension of the system. These meetings include:

• Technical breakdown of exercises

• Equipment setup accuracy and spring precision

• Transition training and flow refinement

• Practice teaching scenarios

• Oral review and system-based questioning

• Application of the Six Principles in both practice and instruction

Apprentices are expected to study independently and come prepared with thoughtful questions. Mastery is built through discipline, dialogue, and refinement.

Testing & Advancement

At the completion of each section, apprentices must pass a formal examination before progressing. Testing includes practical performance, teaching demonstration, and oral questioning to assess technical accuracy, system knowledge, progression standards, and the ability to apply the classical method responsibly.

Advancement is earned — not assumed.

Each level must be successfully completed before moving forward. This structure ensures that graduates of the program meet the Romana’s Pilates standard and are prepared to teach with confidence, clarity, and respect for the original work.