MAT INSTRUCTOR TRAINING | ONLINE
Our Mat Pilates education program merges our foundation in anatomy and alignment with contemporary Pilates movements, equipping you to build creative, progressive class sequences that grow in complexity. You’ll discover how to lead engaging, multidimensional classes that reflect the core principles of Pilates, while incorporating modern movements to ensure a smooth, flowing experience.
Mat Pilates is highly accessible, making it a valuable and adaptable component of any instructor’s toolkit. By offering Mat Pilates, you give clients a budget-friendly and approachable way to enjoy the full benefits of Pilates—wherever they are. Our NIT online program expands upon this accessibility. You can complete this course on your own time and with access to minimal equipment or studio needs, making it the perfect addition to your fitness professional background OR the perfect place to start your instructor journey.
Through Niche’s Instructor Training program, you’ll develop expertise in our signature seamless flow method, from breathwork and gentle warm-ups to energizing sequences that elevate the heart rate. Students will learn to confidently modify exercises for all levels and gain the skills to empower clients—both on the mat and in their daily lives.
Equally important is the ability to balance demonstration with observation. You'll develop the awareness to cue clearly while staying engaged with your class, reading bodies in real time, offering individualized modifications, and using your voice to encourage safe and effective movement.
Niche Instructor Training has been approved by NASM, AFFA and ISSA.
TRAINING STRUCTURE
ONLINE COURSEWORK | 14 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 70+ mat exercises throughout each module (including progressions and regressions), 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 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 and building intentional and progressive sequences with clear outcomes from warm ups to cool downs.
*We recommend allocating an additional 8 hours towards self-study. Reviewing and practicing alongside the coursework material repeatedly will help strengthen your training and prepare you for your test out!
practice HOURS | 75 hours
OBSERVATION (10)
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 (20)
Hours can be fulfilled by following our workouts on Niche-On-Demand and YouTube channel, or at your local studio.
PRACTICE TEACHING (45)
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!
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:
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.
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”.
Written Exam: This will be an online test consisting of multiple choice questions.
Registration for test out is $300 ($100 per component), or $500 if you purchase the Mat & Reformer package, 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
- Includes Foundations of Anatomy
- Includes all online Mat Instructor Training resources
- Access to Niche-On-Demand for personal practice and observation hours
- 10% off NIT continued education workshops
- Niche class planning template
- 1:1 consultation time with our instructor trainers
Pay Monthly
$125.00/mo.
- Includes Foundations of Anatomy
- Includes all online Mat Instructor Training resources
- Access to Niche-On-Demand for personal practice and observation hours
- 10% off NIT continued education workshops
- Niche class planning template
- 1:1 consultation time with our instructor trainers
MAT & REFORMER PACKAGE
Purchase our Mat and Reformer Training package and save $400!
Pay in Full
$3,200
*Save $150 when paid in full
- Includes Foundations of Anatomy
- Includes all online Mat Instructor Training resources
- Includes all online Reformer Instructor Training resources
- Access to Niche-On-Demand for personal practice and observation hours
- 10% off NIT continued education workshops
- Niche class & private session planning templates
- 1:1 consultation time with our instructor trainers
- SAVE $100 ON TEST OUT FEE
Pay Monthly
$325.00/mo.
- Includes Foundations of Anatomy
- Includes all online Mat Instructor Training resources
- Includes all online Reformer Instructor 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
- SAVE $100 ON TEST OUT FEE
NICHE TIPS FOR SUCCESS
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.
TRAINING TIMELINE options
5 HOURS/WEEK
MONTH 1:
4 hours of online modules + self-study per week
1 hours of personal practice each week
WEEKS 5 TO 6:
3 hours of online modules + self-study per week
1 hour of personal practice + 1 hour of observation per week
WEEKS 7 TO 10:
2 hours of observation + 1 hour of personal practice + 2 hours of practice teaching per week
Weeks 11 to 20:
1 hour of personal practice + 4 hours of practice teaching per week
COMPLETE TRAINING WITHIN 5 MONTHS
10 HOURS/WEEK
WEEKS 1 TO 4:
5–6 hours each week of online modules + self-study
2 hours of observation per week + 2–3 hours of personal practice
per week
WEEKS 5 TO 6:
5 hours of observation per week + 2–3 hours of personal practice
per week
Weeks 7 to 11:
1 hour of personal practice + 9 hours of practice teaching per week
COMPLETE TRAINING WITHIN 2.5 MONTHS
15 HOURS/WEEK
WEEKS 1 TO 2:
11 hours of online modules + self-study per week
3 hours of personal practice per week
WEEKS 3 TO 4:
9 hours of observation + 3 hours of personal practice per week
WEEKS 5 TO 8:
2 hours of personal practice each week
10–12 hours of practice teaching each week
COMPLETE TRAINING WITHIN 2 MONTHS
20 HOURS/WEEK
WEEKS 1 TO 2:
10 hours of online modules + self-study each week
5 hours of observation + 5 hours of personal practice per week
Week 3:
Finish online modules + self-study (2 hours)
8 hours of observation + 5 hours of personal practice
Weeks 4 to 6:
2 hours of personal practice + 15 hours of practice teaching each week
COMPLETE TRAINING WITHIN 1.5 MONTHS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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 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 practice 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 you 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.
If you’re local to Richmond and prefer to learn in person, learn more about our studio training program!