By | Message |
---|---|
Markella On: August 27, 2013 08:45 AM |
Hello all - I just discovered this site and look forward to exploring it. Here's my conundrum: I teach matwork at several gyms. My formation consists of a college semester course of Pilates and then 8 years of training in matwork with my teacher at a gym. I'm going on my 3rd year teaching now, am always studying from books/videos (lots of online materials). This past year I began paying for semi-private lessons to introduce myself to all the apparatus (I was only familiar with reformer). I find myself in the position of really wanting to do an official certification program, but can't economically validate the cost (I only make €17 an hour at the gym, I live in Italy, and work 9 hours a week). I'd love to hear your ideas on this topic.....opening my own studio at the moment is not possible, I know I have lots more to learn and would like the guidance of an official certification program, but would spend more than I make in a year to do the certification and miss work time to do so. Sooo???? |
Casey H On: August 27, 2013 13:12 PM |
I understand your predicament. It is hard to juggle the positives and negatives of taking that jump into professional training. The first most important thing for you to consider is where you see yourself in 5 to 10 years. If it is teaching movement and Pilates is your passion then you definitely want to hone your skills in the method and in communicating that work to all types of people and special populations.And If you want to grow and thrive in any field you must be trained. I know a lot of times we feel that what we do is a labour of love and that there isn't much monetary gain. I definitely feel this way but I also know there is nothing else that I am so passionate about. I love nurturing, teaching and growing with my clients. I love to see the skills we build in the studio change their bodies and their lives. This is the real payoff. And I would not have the skills to help my clients without the many courses I have taken from my mentors. But , of course, you have to pay the bills so before you dive into an expensive training the time has to be right. Your teacher trainer also must be the right fit for you. Please do your research and find someone that will be a true mentor to you. The last thing is you usually don't have to commit to the whole comprehensive training all at once. These days a lot of companies allow you to do the courses in modules and that really helps you manage your spending. Please keep us updated on how you progress. Love , Jen |