pre & postnatal instructor training
At Niche, we believe in supporting movement through every stage of life. That’s why we created a specialized supplemental course within our Niche Instructor Training Program: Pre & Post-Natal Pilates Instruction.
This course equips instructors with the knowledge and tools to safely and effectively modify Pilates exercises for clients who are pregnant or postpartum.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Instructors will learn the following:
Modifications for common perinatal conditions such as sciatica and diastasis recti
Class planning through every trimester of pregnancy & postpartum
Risk factors, red flags and contraindications to consider, as well as when to refer a client to a healthcare provider
How the use of props can support mothers during pregnancy
How pressure management and breathwork play a role in the perinatal period
Staying confident when a pregnant person comes to class
TRAINING STRUCTURE
IN-PERSON training | 17 HOURS
In-Person training begins with an online module and two training days at our Richmond, VA-based studio, followed by online study and quizzes. In-person training creates a collaborative environment where students will receive real time feedback from instructor trainers and learn from and alongside fellow students.
FOUNDATIONS OF ANATOMY (5 hours): Taught by a licensed physical therapist, this course covers the essential building blocks of human movement. You will be introduced to core Pilates principles and fundamental movement concepts, giving you the anatomical awareness and movement literacy that will serve as the building blocks for the remainder of your training.
2 TRAINING DAYS (6 hours each, 12 hours total): These are spread across one weekend. Receive hands-on practice and live feedback from instructor trainers and become equipped with the technical proficiency to observe pregnant bodies in motion, design classes and private sessions with intention, and provide the best support for mothers throughout pregnancy and postpartum.
online training | 15 HOURS
This course is also available to be completed 100% online and provides the flexibility and accessibility to receive training at your own pace while receiving continuous support from our instructor trainers!
Begin the program with the course “Foundations of Anatomy” | 5 hours
Online Training Material related to Pre-& Postnatal Pilates Instruction | 5 hours
Practice the material on your own or with a friend | 5 hours
Schedule time with one of our NIT Instructor Trainers to go over questions and receive feedback
TRAINING STRUCTURE
Instructors will complete the modules listed below, with quizzes throughout to assess understanding. A final quiz must be passed with a score of 85% or higher to earn course certification.
Foundations of Anatomy – Build a solid understanding of anatomy as it relates to the perinatal body.
Pilates Principles – Explore how core Pilates concepts support pregnancy and postpartum movement.
Benefits of Pilates – Review the physical and mental benefits of Pilates during the perinatal experience.
Pregnancy Trimesters Overview – Understand body changes, client needs, key precautions, and session planning for each stage.
Risk Factors and Contraindications – Learn when to modify exercises or seek medical clearance.
Exercise Modifications – Identify non–perinatal-friendly movements and provide safe, effective alternatives.
Cueing Strategies – Adapt cueing to safely and inclusively support pregnant clients in group settings.
Use of Props – Incorporate props to improve comfort, stability, and accessibility.
Supporting Pregnant Clients – Address common discomforts, offer relief strategies, and provide emotional support.
Postpartum Recovery – Guide safe return to exercise, focusing on healing, progression, and red flags.
Diastasis Recti & Core Reconnection – Understand abdominal separation and strategies to rebuild core strength.
Pressure Management – Recognize and address abdominal doming and modify movements as needed.
Postural Changes – Identify and correct pelvic tilt shifts, rounded shoulders, and upper-body tightness.
Functional Application – Apply Pilates principles to daily activities for strength and alignment.
Individual Differences – Acknowledge that every pregnancy and recovery journey is unique.
SPRING 2026 TRAINING DATES
TRAINING DAY 1 | SATURDAY, MARCH 7, 10AM–4PM
TRAINING DAY 2 | SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 10AM–4PM
Can’t make it to the studio? Learn more about our Online Pre & Postnatal Training program below!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I have to be niche instructor training CERTIFIED?
No, but we do expect that students are trained in pilates or certified Pilates Instructors even if they are not certified through Niche Instructor Training.
Do I have to be a pilates instructor to take this course?
Yes, it is highly recommended that you are currently a trained or certified Pilates instructor before taking this course as continuing education.
Do I need to test out?
No, this course is considered a certification course so test out is not required.
what if have questions during training?
After your training begins, you will receive a calendar link to schedule a 1:1 consultation with one of our instructor trainers, or you can e-mail us at education@nichefitstudio.com!
How long do I have access to the training material?
You will have forever access to the material once you complete this course!
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.