EMBODIED Teacher Training FAQ
1. Is this training classical or contemporary?
Our training is rooted in classical Pilates. you will learn all of the classical exercises, with the classical breath, cues and principles, in addition to embodied principles and modern approaches to movement and instruction.
2. Will I receive a certification?
Absolutely! After successfully completing both a practical and written exam, you’ll receive a digital certification. printed certifications are available by request.
3. If I complete your training, can I teach at other studios or just Ritual Moves?
Yes! You will be certified to teach at almost any studio, as long as it’s not strictly classical. Some very traditional classical studios require auxiliary trainings that typically take 2–3 years to complete. However, the majority of studios you encounter will be modern and will welcome your certification.
4. What is embodiment?
Embodiment is the practice of tuning into your body’s sensations, movements, and experiences with curiosity and awareness. It is rooted in somatics, a field of study that emphasizes the body-mind connection and the lived experience of movement. In our training, embodiment is about feeling rather than fixing—prioritizing exploration and intuition over achieving arbitrary shapes or goals. This approach fosters a deeper connection to your body, making movement more meaningful and intentional for yourself and your future clients.
5. How much does it cost, and do you offer payment plans?
The full tuition varies by training—check the specific training page for current rates. a limited amount of Payment plans are available for all programs. We’re happy to work with you to set up a schedule that feels doable. Just reach out.
6. What’s your refund, transfer, or deferral policy?
All sales are final. That said, life happens—and we’re not rigid about it. If something major comes up, we’ll do our best to work with you on rescheduling or deferring to a future cohort. no refunds are available.
7. How large are the training cohorts?
Our cohorts are intentionally small—typically 8–12 people—so there’s space for everyone to be seen, supported, and challenged in meaningful ways.
8. Who are the instructors?
Our lead facilitators, Kati (founder of ritual moves) and molly (lead facilitator and head instructor) are seasoned teachers who care deeply about embodiment, space-holding, and trauma-informed instruction. You’ll be guided by instructors who walk the walk and have years of experience not just in Pilates, but in cultivating presence and capacity in others.
9. Do you offer scholarships or sliding scale options?
We’re not currently offering scholarships or sliding scale pricing, but we’re actively working on ways to make future cohorts more accessible—including community-supported funding options. Stay tuned.
10. Does this training include anatomy?
Yes, our training covers anatomy and much more. we highly recommend choosing a training that includes anatomy. We also include contraindications, teaching diverse populations, embodied movement principles, trauma-informed language, and other essential teaching tools.
11. Does the program include mentoring?
Yes! We offer 4 weeks of mentoring classes (2 per week), plus 4 weeks of practice teaching hours where you have the option to teach real clients. Both are optional but highly recommended to build confidence and deepen your skills. private (paid) 1:1 mentoring is also available at request.
12. What’s the trainee-to-mentor ratio during practice teaching?
just like our training, We keep it small and intentional. During mentorship weeks and practice teaching, you can often expect a 5:1 student-to-mentor ratio (or better), so you get individualized feedback and support.
13. What kind of support is included after the training?
We offer mentorship, continued access to studio hours, opportunities to apply for teaching roles at Ritual Moves, and discounts on workshops in somatics, breath, meditation, and more. Many trainees also continue on with us through our extended mentorship programs.
14. What are the next steps after certification?
After certification, you’ll be eligible to teach anywhere that hires contemporary Pilates instructors. Many grads begin teaching private clients, subbing at studios, or launching their own classes. You’ll also be added to our alumni network and have access to continued learning opportunities to keep deepening your practice.
15. When can I test out?
many trainees test out as early as 3 months after completing the training, with most averaging around 6 months. We encourage you to test within one year of your final in-person training weekend. You also have the option to attend future training weekends (space permitting) to refresh your memory before testing out.
16. Can I practice in the studio when there are no classes?
Yes, we have open studio hours for up to 3 months post-training. During this time, you can bring friends to teach, teach yourself, practice independently, and observe real Ritual Moves classes to complete your hours.
17. Do I get a discount on studio classes if I want to take them?
Yes, all trainees receive a 10% discount on studio classes during and forever after their training!
18. Will you be offering training in New York City?
Coming soon!
19. When does the next training start, and when should I apply?
Upcoming cohort dates are listed on each training page. We recommend applying early—our programs tend to fill up, and once we hit capacity, we close applications. If you’re not sure which training is the best fit, email kati@ritualmoves.com