Reformer Pilates academy

At our gorgeous studio in Ongar Essex, from 2026 possibly our gorgeous new studio.

7-8 days 10.30am - 5.30pm are required and yes these are all weekdays due the studio being open for classes at weekends. 

No stress, lovely — we’ve got you covered. If you can’t make certain dates, we’ll do our best to work around your schedule. We can even arrange 1:1 training on days that suit you (you may just need to bring a friend along for your mock assessment).

That said, group training has some incredible benefits. You’ll learn not only from the instructors but also from each other, sparking conversations and insights that wouldn’t happen otherwise. Plus, it’s a brilliant way to connect, network, and build relationships with others in the reformer Pilates world.

Our Reformer Pilates Modules 1, 2 and 3 cover everything you need to become fluent in this incredible practice. You’ll not only learn to perform every single exercise with confidence, but also dive into the history and theory that make reformer Pilates so powerful.

From there, we go deeper: how to create that unforgettable electric vibe in your classes, choreograph the coolest, most seamless flows, and design class plans that feel effortless yet exciting. You’ll have the space to ask every question, experiment, and play in our beautiful studio until the reformer feels less like a piece of equipment and more like your new bestie.

When you’re ready, it’s your time to shine in a mock assessment — the stage is yours to practice, perform, and receive real-time feedback that builds your confidence.

But we don’t just wave you off at that point. You’ll have 100 practice hours to complete, fully supported by Elm. That means observing classes, joining in, and even running your own trainee sessions — all leading up to your official assessment. And when you pass? Time to pop the bubbles and celebrate becoming the badass reformer pro you were born to be!

At Elm, we don’t just teach reformer Pilates—we elevate the standard. We recognised gaps in the current training landscape and set out to create something exceptional. Our programme was built to solve the challenges aspiring instructors face.

No access to a studio or your own reformer to log the practice hours?

We’ve got you covered. Your practice hours are built into your training, right here in our beautiful space.

Struggling to master the art of class planning?

We’ve covered that too. You’ll learn how to design classes with flow, intention, and variety and have access to a repertoire of pre planned classes online.

Worried about what to say for 45 minutes and how to lead an unforgettable session—not just a “good” one?

We teach exactly that. Because delivering a world-class experience is an art in itself.

At Elm, we believe that teaching reformer Pilates is more than executing movements—it’s about creating magic in every class. We’re here to help you master not only your technique, but the energy, voice, and presence that set you apart in a fast-growing, in-demand industry.

Join us and become the kind of instructor people can’t wait to come back to.

Live out your dream and do a job you love!

If you love reformer and would love to pass that joy on to others and work the hours you want and earn well out of it - then this is the job for you!

To think what your daily life could look like teaching a class of reformer Pilates in a fabulous studio to a room full of lovely people and that fills you with joy - do it!

At Elm, we believe in full transparency. Before you invest in a new skill or career path, it’s important you have all the facts to make an informed decision.

Typically, reformer Pilates instructors earn between £25–£45 per class, depending on location, experience, and the employer. It’s a flexible and rewarding role that can easily be fitted around other commitments—whether that’s another career, children, or simply your lifestyle. Or, if you choose, it can absolutely become your full-time profession.

At Elm, we also offer our instructors free classes, providing they’re not taking the spot of a paying client. We believe staying connected to your own practice is vital—for fitness, inspiration, and remembering why you fell in love with reformer in the first place. We grow stronger together, and there’s always something to learn from one another.

For those with big dreams, there’s always the option to open your own studio—an exciting, empowering path. But with that freedom comes full responsibility. Owning a studio isn’t just about teaching; it’s about managing the business, the team, social media, admin, cleaning, emails, DMs, last-minute issues, and everything in between. It’s 24/7. You have to love the process, not just the practice.

As the founder of Elm Studios, I can say—if you’re passionate about both the craft and the business side, it’s an incredible journey. But it’s not for everyone, and that’s okay. The key is to be honest with yourself and find the path that aligns with your lifestyle and goals.

We’re here to support whichever route you choose—with integrity, insight, and inspiration.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind…

To truly thrive as a reformer Pilates instructor, you’ve got to love teaching—not just the method, but the magic of helping others grow. It’s about feeling genuinely fulfilled when you witness someone’s progress, confidence, and transformation.

Teaching is a completely different energy to being a class attendee. You’re not there to receive—you’re there to lead, inspire, and uplift. That means holding the energy of the room, motivating others even on the days they’re not feeling it, and bringing your own joy and presence into every session.

It’s not for everyone, and that’s okay. But if you feel lit up by the idea of empowering others and creating feel-good energy in the room, this path will feel like home.

Being an exceptional reformer Pilates instructor goes far beyond standing at the front and cueing exercises. It’s an art—a blend of presence, precision, and people skills—that requires practice, passion, and purpose.

In every class, you’ll be:

• Welcoming clients and making them feel instantly at ease

• Checking for injuries or pregnancies to ensure a safe experience

• Observing multiple bodies at once, tuning into different levels and needs

• Arriving prepared, with a well-thought-out class plan

• Motivating and encouraging, creating an uplifting, empowered atmosphere

• Educating clients on the why behind every move

• Cueing form and breath, helping them find deeper awareness

• Demonstrating with clarity and confidence

• Adapting and offering modifications, making the class accessible to all

• Setting the tone and unifying the energy of the room

• Communicating with precision, breaking movements down for beginners while keeping it challenging for advanced clients

• Recalling your plan, flowing it seamlessly while staying flexible

• Managing music and tempo, adding rhythm and energy to the experience

• Offering hands-on or verbal corrections, supporting alignment and growth

• Closing the class mindfully, checking in and leaving clients feeling seen

There’s a lot that goes into becoming an inspiring instructor—and at first, it can feel overwhelming. But with time, it becomes second nature. The true magic lies in mastering the details while connecting deeply with others.

This path requires more than just completing a course—it asks for commitment to your own practice, ongoing learning, and the willingness to grow into your role.

So, are you ready to invest not only in your training—but in becoming the kind of instructor people never forget?

Absolutely - we want your hard work to be recognised wherever you go! 

We are insured by Balens. Our accreditation is currently underway we are working super hard behind the scenes to obtain the accreditation that suits us best and offers a global recognition, as soon as this is complete you will be informed and we will update the website. Your global recognised certificate will only be issued upon you successfully completing your assessment after putting in your 150 hours of in person training and practice hours. 

Potentially, yes — but it’s not something we can guarantee. It all depends on factors like studio availability, timing, and making sure we’re the right fit for each other. At Elm, we hold high standards, and that’s exactly what keeps our classes in demand and our community thriving. If it’s the right match, there’s every chance you could become part of the Elm team.