reformer INSTRUCTOR TRAINING | online

Clients are drawn to Niche for our Reformer classes—and it’s easy to see why. The Reformer offers the perfect balance of support and resistance, allowing clients to build strength, refine technique, and deepen body awareness. It encourages both physical and mental engagement, strengthening the mind and body connection that is a cornerstone of Pilates. Many leave feeling stronger, more energized, and newly connected to muscles they hadn’t noticed before.

At the core of Reformer training is a strong foundation in mastering proper technique and learning to recognize and correct misalignments in form. From this base, students expand upon this foundation by layering movements, incorporating contemporary variations, and crafting cohesive, progressive sequences. Using the Niche cueing formula—designed to highlight structural alignment and provide clear,

Niche Instructor Training has been approved by NASM, AFFA and ISSA.

accessible instruction—students learn to communicate movement effectively and make real-time adjustments during class. In addition, students develop the ability to design Reformer classes that flow smoothly, integrating props such as the jump board and box to enhance variety and engagement. Sequences are thoughtfully structured to maintain client focus and energy, creating dynamic and empowering class experiences.

The program is delivered entirely online, providing the flexibility for participants to engage with the curriculum on their own schedule. This format supports a balanced approach, allowing students to manage personal and professional commitments while working steadily toward certification.

TRAINING STRUCTURE

ONLINE COURSEWORK | 10 hours

1: foundations of anatomy

Taught by a licensed physical therapist, this course covers the essential building blocks of human movement, presented through a practical and accessible lens. This course includes the following modules:

  • Pilates Principles

  • Anatomy Review: Bones

  • Anatomy Review: Muscles

  • Anatomy Review: Fascia

  • Posture evaluations

  • Application of anatomy to primary functional movement patterns

This course is intended to introduce you to core Pilates principles and fundamental movement concepts, giving you the anatomical awareness and movement literacy needed to build a strong and informed teaching practice.

2: EXERCISE REVIEW + PLANES OF MOTION

You’ll examine the correct form and alignment of each exercise throughout each module (including amplifications and modificaions), evaluate primary muscle movers and stabilizers, and understand how to structure movement across planes of motion in floor-based movement.

3: MISALIGNMENTS, CONTRAINDICATIONS, AND cueing

Through these modules, you’ll gain the technical and anatomical proficiency in recognizing misalignments and understanding common contraindications to design dynamic classes with intention and mindfulness for all bodies, while providing corrective strategies using clear, effective cues that help clients feel supported throughout class.

4: class & PRIVATE programming

Learn how to foster a client-centered approach grounded in empathy, professionalism, and inclusivity. Students will apply all previous training practices to design purposeful classes around functional themes that fit all levels, including prop integration, private client programming, incorporating jumpboard and strength training principles, and building intentional and progressive sequences with clear outcomes from warm ups to cool downs.

self-sTUDY & practice | 75 hours

  • OBSERVATION (18)

    • Hours can be fulfilled by watching online workouts on our YouTube channel and Niche-On-Demand (access available up to 18 months), or at your local studio.

  • PERSONAL PRACTICE (50)

  • PRACTICE TEACHING (90)

    • Hours can be fulfilled at home or at your local studio.

    • If you are local to Richmond, teach private practice sessions in one of our private rooms for just $5/session. We provide the space, and you bring the client!

  • + SELF-STUDY (20)

    • We recommend allocating at least an additional 20 hours for continued review, study, and practice alongside online coursework. All online quizzes must be passed at minimum 85% accuracy to register for test out.

All hours must be documented and submitted to education@nichefitstudio.com prior to registration for test out.

TEST OUT

There are three components to your test-out: Demonstration, Practical, and Written. The entire process will be conducted in person, and you will need to coordinate with a “client” to be present for the demonstration and practical parts of the test. Each aspect of the test out must be passed by a minimum 85% or more to pass:

  1. Demonstration (30 minutes): You will teach a 30-minute class to your “client” virtually. You will receive guidance prior to your test out that provides an overview of what needs to be included in your demonstration. 

  2. Practical (30 minutes): Your instructor trainer will ask you situational and instructor-related questions, some of which may require you to demonstrate with your “client”.

  3. Written Exam: This will be an online test consisting of multiple choice questions. 

Registration for test out is $300 ($100 per component), which you can purchase after completion of studio training days. Test outs are scheduled once all practice hours are complete. You will send your tracking spreadsheet to our NIT Coordinator through education@nichefitstudio.com to coordinate the scheduling of your test out. Eligibility expires 18 months after your training begins. Each portion of the test out must be passed by a minimum 85% or more to pass. 

Once you’ve successfully tested out, you will have the knowledge, experience, feedback, and a strong teaching foundation to help you launch your Pilates instructor journey successfully!

Pay in Full

$1,200

*Save $150 when paid in full
*Price increases in 2026

  • Includes Foundations of Anatomy course and all online training resources
  • Access to Niche-On-Demand for personal practice and observation hours
  • 10% off NIT continued education workshops
  • Niche class & private session planning template
  • 1:1 consultation time with our instructor trainers

Pay Monthly

$112.50/mo.

*Price increases in 2026

  • Includes Foundations of Anatomy course and all online training resources
  • Access to Niche-On-Demand for personal practice and observation hours
  • 10% off NIT continued education workshops
  • Niche class & private session planning template
  • 1:1 consultation time with our instructor trainers

MAT & REFORMER PACKAGE

Purchase our Mat and Reformer Training package and save $800!

Pay in Full

$3,800

*Save $150 when paid in full
*Price increases in 2026

  • Includes Foundations of Anatomy
  • Access to Niche-On-Demand for personal practice and observation hours
  • 10% off NIT continued education workshops
  • Niche class & private client planning template
  • 1:1 consultation time with our instructor trainers

Pay Monthly

$304.17/mo.

*Price increases in 2026

  • Includes Foundations of Anatomy
  • Access to Niche-On-Demand for personal practice and observation hours
  • 10% off NIT continued education workshops
  • Niche class & private session planning template
  • 1:1 consultation time with our instructor trainers

MAP OUT YOUR TIMELINE: Think about how much time you can realistically dedicate each week to training. Our timeline guides can help you stay on track—and it’s totally okay to adjust as you go!

TAKE YOUR TIME WITH ONLINE MODULES: Watch the exercise videos all the way through, then practice the movements along with them. The more you feel the exercises in your own body, the better you’ll be at teaching them to others.

BREAK UP THE MATERIAL: After each module, try applying what you’ve learned in your own practice or during observation hours. Don’t hesitate to revisit modules as you start teaching.

RECORD YOURSELF: It might feel awkward at first, but recording yourself is a powerful tool. You’ll discover your teaching voice and fine-tune your cueing.

PICK A FOCUS BEFORE OBSERVING: Before each class you observe, pick something specific to pay attention to—maybe class structure, transitions, or how the instructor gives alignment cues.

PRACTICE TEACHING ON A VARIETY OF PEOPLE: Try teaching both beginners and more advanced movers. Every person you work with will help shape you into a more confident, well-rounded instructor.

LEAN ON US FOR SUPPORT! Your Niche Instructor Trainers are here for you! Use our office hours to check in, ask questions, or get feedback whenever you need it.

NICHE TIPS FOR SUCCESS

who is eligible for our niche instructor training program?

Our Niche Instructor Training program is open to everyone! If you’re looking to shift (or expand) your career or deepen your practice, our program is designed to fit for all. You can simply sign up and start your training upon purchase!

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO COMPLETE THE PROGRAM? 

The time it takes to complete these hours will depend on the amount of time you can personally allocate per week towards this portion of your training:

  • 5 hours per week, complete training within 10 months

    • Personal practice: 1 - 2 hours per week (some weeks will fluctuate)

    • Months 1 - 2: complete all online modules + self study (approx. 3 hours per week)

    • Months 3 - 4: start your observation hours (approx. 2 to 3 hours per week)

    • Months 6 - 10: start your practice teaching hours (approx. 5 to 6 hours per week)

  • 10 hours per week, complete training within 5 months

    • Personal practice: 2 to 3 hours per week

    • Month 1: complete all online modules + self study (approx. 7-8 hours per week)

    • Month 2: start your observation hours (approx. 2 to 3 hours per week)

    • Months 3 - 5: start your practice teaching hours (approx. 7 hours per week)

  • 15 hours per week, complete training within 3.5 months

    • Personal practice: 2 to 3 hours per week

    • Month 1:

      • 2 hrs of observation each week

      • 10.5 hours each of online modules + self study

    • Month 2:

      • 8 hours of online modules + self study, (1 week only)

      • 1 hour of observation each week 

      • 11 hours of practice teaching per week

    • Month 3 + 2 weeks:

      • 1 hour of observation each week

      • 11 hours of practice teaching each week

  • 20 hours per week, complete training within 2.5 months

    • Weeks 1-2:

      • 2.5 hours of personal practice each week

      • 2 hours of observation each week

      • 15 hours of online modules + self study

    • Week 3:

      • 3 hours of personal practice each week

      • 2 hours of observation

      • 5 hours of online modules + self study

      • 10 practice teaching hours each week

    • Week 4-11:

      • 4 hours of personal practice each week

      • 1 hour of observation each week

      • 15 practice teaching hours each week,

How will I receive feedback throughout the course?

You will receive a calendar link to schedule time with your instructor training after your training begins, or you can e-mail education@nichefitstudio.com.

How do I register for a test out?

In order to register for your test out, you must complete the following:

  • All online coursework

  • Online quizzes must be passed at a minimum of 85%.

  • All observation, personal practice, and practice teaching hours must be fulfilled, documented, and submitted to the instructor training team.

Once you can complete these requirements, you will send your tracking spreadsheet to our NIT Coordinator through education@nichefitstudio.com and arrange your test out with an instructor trainer. Eligibility expires 18 months after your training begins. Each aspect of the test out must be passed by a minimum 85% or more to pass.

If one portion of your test out does not pass the minimum requirement, you can retake that portion for $100.

What if I want to take the training but don’t want to test out?

Testing out is optional! For students who are more aligned with the goal to learn versus the goal to teach, you don’t have to test out. Instructor training is a great way to help you understand your body and movement on a deeper level. If you elect not to test out, access to online material is removed after 18 months. 

I live out of state and haven’t taken a class at Niche. How can I get a feel for your class style?

You can get a feel for our class style by watching workouts on our YouTube channel, or purchasing a subscription to Niche-On-Demand which has a full library of Niche workouts and workshops. 

How long do I have access to the training material?

Students who test out (whether they pass or not) receive forever access to their training material. Students who do not test out will only have access for 18 months. 

Refund & Cancellation Policy

All purchases are final. If circumstances arise in the midst of training, you contact education@nichefitstudio.com to reschedule or adjust your training timeline.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

If you’re local to Richmond and prefer to learn in person, learn more about our studio training program!