Mat Intensive
10/11 January 2026 + 14/15 February 2026
With the Mat Intensive, you quickly build a solid and inspiring foundation as a Pilates instructor.
You combine the complete Basic and Intermediate programs, allowing you not only to learn the exercises but also to truly develop the confidence to teach them with impact.
What will you learn?
Discover the essence of Pilates – from the fundamental principles to flowing intermediate variations.
Experience and deepen – improve your own technique through personal coaching, hands-on corrections, and immediate feedback.
Become a strong communicator – learn how to guide your participants optimally with clear cues and touch techniques.
Develop your teaching style – structure lessons with creativity and confidence that challenge both beginners and advanced students.
Complete flexibly – finish your program with a video exam, entirely at your own pace and in your familiar environment.
Afterwards, you’ll be ready to teach inspiring Pilates mat classes with energy, knowledge, and confidence – making a real difference for your participants.
Who is it for?
The Mat Intensive is specially designed for anyone who wants to build a solid foundation as a Pilates instructor in a short period of time. Whether you are a complete beginner with no experience or already have some background in sports, movement, or Pilates – this program gives you the knowledge, skills, and confidence to teach professionally.
Beginning trainers who want to learn everything from the ground up and be guided step by step to a professional level.
Movement professionals such as dance or sports instructors, physiotherapists, or personal trainers who want to add Pilates to their expertise.
Pilates enthusiasts who want to deepen their own practice and gain the tools to share it with others.
Course Content
Course Content
Accelerated learning path: complete the full Basic and Intermediate Mat in one program
16+16 contact hours: an in-depth training covering all essential Pilates principles and techniques
Comprehensive lesson program: from basic to intermediate exercises, touch techniques, and cueing
Personal coaching & feedback: improve your own technique with targeted guidance and hands-on corrections
Teaching methodologies: learn how to deliver Pilates mat classes in a structured, effective, and confident way
Flexible exam: complete the course with a video exam, allowing you to demonstrate what you’ve learned at your own pace and in your own environment
Prerequisites
No experience required! For this course, no prior knowledge or teaching experience is needed. You will learn everything from the basics and be guided step by step to a professional level.
During the training, you will receive intensive support to not only develop your teaching skills but also elevate your own technique through personal coaching and immediate feedback.
Additionally, you will learn practical teaching methodologies that allow you to confidently and structuredly lead Pilates mat classes right away.
Course Information
Course Dates
- Module 1 – Basic Mat: January 10 + 11, 2026
- Module 2 – Intermediate Mat: February 14 + 15, 2026
For a complete overview of course dates in 2026:
Course Duration
- 16 + 16 contact hours
- 1 month between Module 1 and Module 2
- 8 weeks after Module 2 for exam submission
- Certification achievable within 4 months
Location
- Optisport Alexanderhof, Rotterdam
Price
- € 1,235.00 (excl. VAT)
- Includes:
- Workbook
- Course materials
- Exam
Develop yourself into a confident Pilates trainer
FAQ
Content and level
What exactly will I learn in the program/course?
You will learn the classical Pilates exercises, how to teach them safely and effectively, and how to structure a complete and inspiring class. You will also work on your personal technique, so that you truly embody the exercises yourself; this way, you can teach them to others even more effectively.
What is the difference between the Mat and Reformer training?
The Mat focuses on the classical mat exercises (Basic and Intermediate). The Reformer I is centered on teaching with the Reformer apparatus. Together, they form a strong foundation for your career.
For which level is the training suitable?
The Mat Intensive requires a minimum of 10 attended mat classes. No prior teaching experience is needed.
Will I also learn how to teach during the training?
Yes, you will start practicing teaching skills from the very beginning and receive plenty of feedback. This way, you build confidence in guiding groups. By the end of the training, every participant will teach a class.
Is attention also given to anatomy and theory?
Yes, you will mainly learn applied anatomy such as the anatomy of the Powerhouse, alignment, teaching methodology, and the Pilates principles.
Is the modern approach to Pilates also covered?
Yes, we translate the classical method into the present day, with contemporary teaching styles, while preserving its authenticity.
How large are the groups?
We purposely work in smaller groups to ensure plenty of personal attention and feedback.
Duration and structure
How long does the training take?
The Mat Intensive consists of two modules, each lasting two days.
How much time does the self-study take?
Count on approximately 60 required hours (theory, practice, and assignments).
What does a training day look like?
We combine theory, practice, and teaching moments (practicing teaching and receiving feedback), as well as a variety of masterclasses. You will be actively engaged throughout the entire day.
Where are the trainings held?
For the Mat training, we have several training locations.
How often do the trainings start?
Several times a year. The current dates are always available on our website.
Admission and prerequisites
Do I need to have a sports or fitness background?
No, that is not required. However, we do expect an affinity with movement and at least 10 classes of experience.
Is there a minimum age?
Yes, the minimum age is 17 years.
Can I participate if I have physical complaints/injuries?
That depends on the nature of the complaint. Please contact us to discuss what is possible.
Exams and certification
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes, upon completion you will receive a certificate from The Pilates Academy.
What does the exam look like?
The exam consists of a practical and a theoretical part, in which you demonstrate that you have mastered the exercises and are able to teach them.
When do I take the exam?
The exam is in the form of a submitted video, 8 weeks after the final module. The exact submission date will be communicated during the training.
Tuition and payment
How much does the training cost?
You can find the current prices on our website. Our prices are excluding VAT and including course materials, workbook, and the exam.
Can I pay in installments?
Yes, this is possible. Please contact us to discuss the options.
Are there any additional costs, for example for books or materials?
No, all course materials and the workbook are included.
Career opportunities and next steps
Where can I teach after completing the training?
You can work at gyms, studios, or start your own classes. Pilates instructors are currently in high demand.
Which further trainings can I take?
After the Mat Intensive, you can continue with Advanced Mat or specializations.
What sets The Pilates Academy apart from other providers?
We combine the classical method with a contemporary approach, offer personal guidance, and train you to become a confident and skilled instructor. What truly sets us apart is that we teach you a teaching methodology that enables you to lead classes with confidence. So, you don’t just learn what to teach, but also how to teach.
