top of page

About the Course

Active IQ Level 3 Certificate in Instructing Pilates Studio Reformer Sessions

Take Your Reformer Teaching to the Next Level

Are you a qualified Pilates Matwork instructor who wants to offer safe, effective and professionally planned Reformer sessions?


The Active IQ Level 3 Certificate in Instructing Pilates Studio Reformer Sessions is a nationally regulated qualification designed to give you the knowledge, confidence and practical skills required to work as a Pilates Studio Reformer instructor.


The qualification can be completed in as little as six weeks, combining two face-to-face practical training days with online learning, tutor-led workshops and guided discussions via Zoom. However, you’ll have up to 12 months from your registration date to complete all learning and assessment requirements.


You’ll also receive one-to-one tutor guidance throughout your studies and have the opportunity to book the PilatEASE Reformer studio for your own independent practice, subject to availability.


Who Is This Course For?

This course is designed for qualified Pilates Matwork instructors who want to develop their knowledge of the Reformer and gain a regulated Level 3 qualification.


It is ideal if you want to:


  • Add Reformer sessions to your existing Pilates services

  • Teach one-to-one Reformer clients

  • Plan and deliver small-group Reformer classes

  • Develop a deeper understanding of the original Reformer repertoire

  • Improve your knowledge of biomechanics, programming and exercise adaptation

  • Build a career as a Pilates Studio Reformer instructor


Course Duration:

This is a flexible blended-learning qualification that can be completed in as little as six weeks. You’ll have up to 12 months from your registration date to complete the full qualification.


The course includes:


  • Two face-to-face practical training days

  • Online workshops and tutor-led Zoom discussions

  • Independent study and portfolio work

  • One-to-one tutor support

  • Ongoing access to complete your learning and assessments


How quickly you complete the qualification will depend on the time you can dedicate to your online learning, independent practice and assessment work.


What Does the Qualification Cover?

The qualification is made up of four mandatory units.


Unit 1: The Fundamentals, Principles and Origins of the Pilates Method and the Reformer Apparatus

You’ll explore the history and development of the Pilates method and the Universal Reformer, including the influence of Joseph Pilates and the Pilates elders.


You’ll look at classical, contemporary and fitness-based approaches to Reformer teaching and learn how the original Pilates principles of breathing, concentration, control, centering, precision and flow apply to the Reformer repertoire.


Unit 2: Health, Safety and Risk Assessment in the Pilates Studio Reformer Environment

This unit will give you the knowledge needed to create a safe and professional Reformer environment.


Unit 3: Planning a Progressive One-to-One Pilates Studio Reformer Programme

You’ll learn how to consult with an individual client and design a progressive Reformer programme based on their needs, ability and goals.


Unit 4: Planning, Delivering and Evaluating a Small-Group Pilates Studio Reformer Session

This practical unit focuses on planning and delivering safe, effective and enjoyable small-group Reformer sessions.


The Reformer Repertoire

Throughout the course, you’ll develop your understanding and application of the original Reformer repertoire, including:


  • Footwork series

  • Long box series

  • Short box series

  • Feet and hands in straps

  • Stomach massage series

  • Rowing series

  • Stretch series

  • Standing series

  • Tall and low kneeling series


How You Will Learn

This flexible blended-learning course includes:


  • Two face-to-face practical training days

  • Online learning and course resources

  • Tutor-led online workshops

  • Group discussions delivered via Zoom

  • Assignments and worksheets

  • One-to-one tutor guidance

  • Independent study and portfolio work

  • The opportunity to book the PilatEASE Reformer studio for additional practice, subject to availability


The two practical days will give you valuable hands-on experience using the Reformer, developing your technique and practicing your instructional skills in a working Pilates studio.


The online elements allow you to explore the underpinning knowledge in greater depth, complete your portfolio and take part in guided discussions with your tutors and fellow learners.


You may complete the qualification in as little as six weeks, but you’ll have up to 12 months from your registration date to complete all learning and assessments.


How You Will Be Assessed

The qualification is internally assessed by PilatEASE and externally quality assured by Active IQ.


Assessment includes:


  • Written assignments

  • Worksheets

  • Planning and programming activities

  • A portfolio of evidence

  • A small-group Reformer Pilates session, either delivered live or submitted as a filmed session


Your practical assessment must demonstrate that you can safely plan, deliver and evaluate a small-group Reformer session while applying the principles and fundamentals of the Pilates method.


You may complete the qualification in as little as six weeks. However, all learning and assessment requirements must be successfully completed within 12 months of your registration date.


You must successfully complete all four mandatory units and provide all required assessment evidence to achieve the qualification.


Entry Requirements

To enrol on this qualification, you must already hold a suitable Level 3 qualification in Instructing Pilates Matwork.


Experience of taking part in Pilates Reformer classes is also highly recommended.


Qualification Details

Qualification: Active IQ Level 3 Certificate in Instructing Pilates Studio Reformer Sessions

Ofqual Qualification Number: 610/7750/1

Course duration: Complete in as little as six weeks, with up to 12 months from registration

Face-to-face learning: Two practical training days

Guided learning hours: 125

Total qualification time: 250 hours

Completion deadline: Within 12 months of registration


Course Dates

Online resources available from Tuesday 1st September 2026.


Face-to-face practical days:

  • Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th September 2026 (11.30am - 6.00pm) - Held at PilatEASE Morpeth

  • Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd November 2026 (11.30am - 6.00pm) - Held at PilatEASE Denton

  • Friday 4th and Saturday 5th December 2026 (11.30am - 6.00pm) - Held at PilatEASE Denton


Details of the online workshops and tutor-led Zoom discussions will be provided when you enrol.


Course Fee

SPECIAL LAUNCH PRICE: £699

Usual price: £799


PilatEASE Learner Pricing

Already studying with us or previously completed a course with PilatEASE Training School?


Level 3 Reformer for past or current PilatEASE Training School learners: £599

If you’re starting your Pilates teaching journey and want to qualify in both Matwork and Reformer, you can secure both qualifications together:


Level 3 Matwork and Level 3 Reformer bundle: £1,545

You can complete your Level 3 Matwork qualification first before progressing to the Level 3 Reformer course, or complete both courses in tandem.


Please contact at training@pilateaseuk.co.uk before booking a learner rate or course bundle so we can confirm your eligibility and help you choose the correct course dates.


Location

September:

PilatEASE Morpeth Studio

17 Grange Road,

Morpeth

NE61 2TS


November & December:

PilatEASE Denton Studio,

1st Floor

678 West Road,

Newcastle upon Tyne,

NE5 2UR


What Can I Do After Qualifying?

Once you have successfully completed the qualification, you’ll be qualified to work as a Pilates Studio Reformer instructor.


You’ll have the skills required to design progressive one-to-one programmes and plan and deliver small-group Reformer sessions safely and effectively.


Not Sure This Reformer Course Is Right for You?

The best option for you will depend on your existing qualifications, experience and future career plans. Get in touch with the PilatEASE Training School at training@pilateaseuk.co.uk team and we’ll help you find the right route - nee nonsense and no confusion.


Active IQ Level 3 Certificate in Instructing Pilates Studio Reformer Sessio
£799.00£699.00
Buy Now

Your Instructor

Nicci Rowlands, Heather West and Jessica Davison

Nicci Rowlands, Heather West and Jessica Davison

Nicci Rowlands - Master Trainer & Lead Tutor

Following a back injury, the Director of PilatEASE Training Academy Nicci Rowlands, ended up with a bulging disc, sciatica along with hip, leg and knee pain. This led Nicci down the path of specialising in Pilates for therapy and wellness.

Qualifying as a Pilates Reformer Trainer changed Nicci’s whole way of training. Back Care Pilates and Pilates for Wellness are her absolute passion.

After realising there was a regional shortage of UK accredited Pilates Teachers Nicci embarked on the journey of becoming an Active IQ Training Centre to deliver the ONLY accredited training in Pilates - the Level 3 Diploma in Pilates Matwork. She went on to write her own endorsed CPD course in Reformer Pilates.

Her passion to have the most confident Pilates Teachers graduating from the PilatEASE Training Academy and learning for life with all the continuous professional development, workshops and discussion groups available to all her students.

PilatEASE training school logo
bottom of page