FOUNDATIONAL LEVEL
The Pilates System Certification Program
Become a certified Pilates Studio Instructor with our comprehensive teacher training program.
ABOUT THE LEVEL
The Pilates System Training
This comprehensive Pilates teacher training is designed to develop both practical skills and a clear understanding of the method, combining hands-on practice, theory, and guided online preparation. From the beginning, you work across Reformer, Matwork, Cadillac, Chair, and Barrels as one integrated system, learning how exercises connect, progress, and adapt to different bodies and levels. Rather than memorising routines, you build the ability to structure sessions, apply the method with purpose, and teach with confidence in a professional studio environment.
“You cannot teach what you do not understand in your own body. The three-week intensive gives you the system — complete, integrated, experienced physically.”
— Patricia Duchaussoy
TRAINING STRUCTURE
How the Foundational Level Works
Start with the intensive course, then continue your path to certification.
Mandatory
The Pilates System Training
3-weeks intensive • In person
All apparatus taught as one integrated system. You experience the complete Beginner and Intermediate repertoire on your own body before you ever teach it.
Reformer
Mat
Chair
Barrels
Cadillac
Anatomy Essentials online course
Pilates Basics online course
What you learn
The full Pilates studio system across Reformer, Matwork, Cadillac, Chair, and Barrels – starting from the Beginner repertoire and progressing into Intermediate level.
Insight into how exercises are constructed, how movement principles transfer between apparatus, and how to make exercises easier or more challenging based on the client’s level.
You will also develop the skills to analyse movement, structure sessions, and teach confidently in a professional studio environment.
After the course, choose your path to certification.
After completing the intensive course, your development continues through ongoing practice, deeper study, and hands-on teaching experience. This phase is essential to refine your understanding, build confidence, and fully integrate the Pilates system before certification.
There is no fixed timeline – you progress at your own pace. You can either prepare independently and take the exam when ready, or follow a structured guided practice phase with support, clear milestones, and resources to ensure you are fully prepared for certification.
Recommended
Best value
Guided Practice Program
Online Course + Certification Exam
€ 450 total
Instead of taking the exam alone (€150), this option provides a complete preparation phase with structured support – making it the preferred path for most students.
Exam only
Theory Exam Only
€ 150 three attempts
Upon passing the theory exam
Swiss Pilates Foundational Instructor Certificate
Scope of practice: Teaching within the Foundational Level — Beginner and Intermediate repertoire across all major apparatus.
UPCOMING TRAININGS
Foundational Level Dates
Click any date to see full details, certification and pricing.
MASTER INSTRUCTOR
Patricia Duchaussoy
Founder of Swiss Pilates Institute
Patricia Duchaussoy is a second-generation Pilates master with over 35 years of international teaching experience. Trained by direct disciples of Joseph Pilates, Patricia brings a rare depth of knowledge, passion for movement, and a personal commitment to every student she teaches.
About Patricia →
TESTIMONIALS
Graduate Success Stories
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything You Need to Know
Your Pilates Certification Starts Here
Turn your passion for movement into a rewarding career as a certified Pilates instructor