Over the last 6 years that I have been a Pilates Teacher I have noticed a trend; many devoted students make wonderful teachers! I decided to interview a few of the many students turned teachers to find out what inspired them, where they came from and how Pilates changed their lives and career path. And if you want to know about becoming a Pilates Teacher, find out here.
Meet JULIE FUNK
1- How long did you study Pilate as a student before getting certified to be an instructor?
6 years.
2- What other work do you do or did you do before you began teaching Pilates?
I am always in pursuit of my dream of being a working actor; I write, but mostly on a volunteer and creative hobby basis; and I am also a cocktail waitress at Lucky Strike Lanes in Hollywood.
3- Why did you become a Pilates Instructor?
I wanted the opportunity to spend time learning all I could about something I loved, with the hope that I could help others experience the same positive impacts Pilates has made in my own life. I was also looking for a way to continue pursuing my dream while helping others.
4- What do you like most about your new career path
Most clients feel refreshed after a session, and for many, our time together was the least stressful time of their day– the time they took to focus internally and take care of themselves. When you truly take care of yourself, it is easier to be kind and loving to others. I absolutely love being a part of that journey towards health, balance and wellness.
5- How did you like the Pilates Sports Center Training program?
I researched very thoroughly when choosing a program and I am thankful for my choice each day. Nichole and Lora care very deeply about making sure the students are connecting with the work and that they understand all aspects of being a teacher, from relating to the clients to keeping them safe. I have enjoyed an environment of encouragement and support at PSC, first as a client, then as a teacher trainee, and even now as a teacher, that has been one of the most positive, nurturing parts of my time in Los Angeles. Needless to say, I would most definitely recommend the program to others.
Meet AMY ACETO
1- How long did you study Pilates on your own before getting certified as an instructor?
One year.
2- What other work do you do or did you do before you began teaching?
I was/still am a swimwear designer. I have a degree in design and have worked in the fashion industry for the past 16+years. I currently still freelance some and am the designer/owner of Amy Elise Swimwear.
3- Why did you become a Pilates Instructor?
I was laid off of the last 4 jobs I had in the fashion industry and when I was laid off of the last one I wanted to start my own line. I freelanced for a while to earn money and then that stopped and I basically needed a new career. I was out of work for almost 2 years and at some point you have to tell yourself to move on to something else. Since I loved Pilates so much and timing wise, PSC was starting a new teacher training program I decided to do it.
4- What do you like most about your new career path?
I like that it still gives me freedom to design my own line. I like the flexibility of the schedule. I am not sure I could go back to a 9-5 job again. I like that I feel more in control of my career. I also like that I could probably do this anywhere I wanted to go. My parents were both teachers and I think its interesting that I teach now. I also love that I can still be creative with my teaching but just in a different way then how I design.
5- How did you like the Pilates Sports Center Training program?
I liked the PSC training program; it was nice that I could do it through the studio I had already been going to. Lora and Nicole are both such amazing people and I felt like they cared about how we did. I have recommended it to people. When people like they way I teach and then ask where I got certified I tell them PSC.
Meet MELISSA SOLTERO
1- How long did you study Pilates on your own before getting certified as an instructor?
I studied Pilates for 3 years before I got certified.
2- What other work do you do or did you do before you began teaching?
I had all sorts of odd jobs before I became an instructor. In order of most recent to longest ago; front desk at PSC, Model Boxer, Bridal Shop assistant, Waitress at Hooters, Waitress at Cocos, Cashier at Beverly’s Crafts and DayCare Assistant. That was fun to reminisce!
3- Why did you become a Pilates Instructor?
I loved doing pilates and I realized that this would be the first thing I would love to do as a career or just as extra income.
4- What do you like most about your new career path?
I love the flexible schedule. Even though you still can have a set schedule, it changes all the time and it’s easy to get coverage.
5. Tell us your thoughts on the Pilates Sports Center Training Program.
Even though I did not go through the PSC program myself, I would still highly recommend it. I would even recommend it over my training program through BASI. Although BASI has the prestige and the allure, it was an extremely accelerated and difficult program. Every program has its pros and cons. PSC has smaller more intimate classroom settings and they go over a lot more modifications. It is not as strict and gives you the tools for a REAL life session.
To learn more about our Teacher Training program call the Front Desk or to sign up click here!
I have had the wonderful opportunity to train with great instructors since becoming a student over a year ago. I have found that each instructor has helped me in different ways. I have gained strength from Amy A. and Marcy, better form from Julie and Kim S., and learned to try and really love things (Zumba) from Nancy! I have even learned how to connect with myself better from Lora.
If this program turns out this much talent….keep up the great work!