STOTT PILATES® Frequently Asked Questions

Since its inception over 20 years ago, STOTT PILATES has grown from a small studio into the world’s most respected Pilates brand. While much has changed since they first opened their doors in 1988, their mission of promoting the ongoing benefits of mind-body fitness worldwide remains a constant. A full-service company providing all the training, equipment and ongoing support you need to build a strong and successful Pilates career. Whether your goal is to establish Pilates group exercise programs, take your personal training to the next level, or train to become a certified instructor – STOTT PILATES goes the distance to help you succeed. STOTT PILATES’ mission is to fulfill the needs of Pilates enthusiasts everywhere and that’s why they’re the number one source for everything Pilates – spanning equipment, education and media.

You can attend a Comprehensive or Intensive Certification course at the STOTT PILATES International Certification Center or at a Licensed Training Center like Inspire Health. Another option is to have your club/rehab facility host on-site STOTT PILATES Training. STOTT PILATES specializes in providing quality training, not crash courses; however, training is broken down into modules to make it more practical for people and organizations. This way, students are able to begin incorporating their knowledge of STOTT PILATES exercises into their classes and practice right away.

If you have the necessary prerequisites (knowledge of functional anatomy, familiarity with the works of J.H Pilates & three years teaching experience) you may qualify for STOTT PILATES' Intensive Level 1 programs: Matwork (40hrs), Reformer (50 hrs) and Cadillac (25 hrs), Chair (15 hrs) & Barrels (10 hrs). These courses are offered at the STOTT PILATES International Certification Center at Licensed Training Centers (Inspire Health) or on-site at your facility, and can be scheduled to suit the needs of any organization. If you do not meet the above mentioned prerequisites, you should enroll in the comprehensive program at the STOTT PILATES International Certification Center or selected Licensed Training Centers.

Yes, currently we are able to test for Level 1 and 2 Mat and Reformer Certifications.  We anticipate being able to test Level 1 and 2 Cadillac, Chair and Barrel in January 2009.
Exams are scheduled individually according to instructor trainer and studio schedules.  Exams can be taken week days and weekends.

The Pilates Method Alliance is an international, not-for-profit, professional association dedicated to the teachings of Joseph H. and Clara Pilates. The PMA's mission is to protect the public by establishing certification and continuing education standards for pilates professionals. As the largest and most established pilates training and certification organization in the world, STOTT PILATES is a founding sponsor of the PMA. 

The PMA is publicizing its certification as a standard for the industry that will protect consumers from incompetence. The PMA is not dissuading its members from taking the exams of training organizations like STOTT PILATES.

STOTT PILATES has established an unparalleled standard for pilates education and certification. With close to twenty years in the industry, its internationally respected program requires the successful completion of rigorous practical and written examinations to qualify for certification.

As of November 2005, STOTT PILATES had trained more than 10,000 instructors. As of November 2005 the PMA had 3,200 members. The PMA's exam has not yet received third party accreditation and currently does not include the all-important evaluation of hands-on teaching skills (i.e. a practical component).