The Demand for Pilates Reformer Teachers Has Never Been Greater in the UK
Introduction:
Pilates has become a popular mind-body exercise discipline in the UK, with millions of people participating in it. However, the growth of Pilates Reformer studios in the country has been significantly slower compared to other countries like Australia, China, Korea, and Spain. The scarcity of Pilates Reformer studios in the UK is due to the government's historical focus on Pilates Matwork, neglecting the potential of Pilates Apparatus, including the Reformer. Fortunately, the landscape is changing, and larger cities are witnessing a surge in the provision of Pilates Group Reformer studios, attracting international franchises to expand into the UK market.
The Disparity in Pilates Reformer Studios:
While the UK boasts a considerable number of Pilates end users (approximately 12 million or 17% of the population), only a small fraction (8%) has experienced a Pilates Reformer class. In comparison, countries like the USA have a higher percentage (around 60%) of Pilates participants engaging in Reformer classes. The lack of emphasis on Pilates Apparatus in the UK's instructor training programs has led to the establishment of fewer than 1000 Group Reformer studios, lagging significantly behind countries like Australia, which has over 10,000 such studios despite having a smaller population.
Changing Landscape and Opportunity:
The growing interest in Pilates Reformer classes and the influx of international franchise companies targeting the UK market indicate a shift in the Pilates landscape. Major cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Liverpool are experiencing exponential growth, with a 250% annual increase in the number of Pilates Group Reformer studios.
The Challenge: Shortage of Trained Instructors:
The rapid expansion of Group Reformer studios in the UK has presented a significant challenge—the lack of qualified Pilates Reformer instructors. The historical focus on Matwork training has resulted in a scarcity of professionals trained to teach on the Pilates Apparatus. As a result, studios are facing difficulties in staffing their facilities with skilled instructors.
Upskilling Opportunities:
To address the demand for trained Pilates Reformer instructors, organizations like Mbodies Training Academy are offering modular CPD (Continuing Professional Development) training programs. These courses allow qualified Matwork Instructors to upskill and add Pilates Reformer teaching to their repertoire. The flexibility of these programs allows instructors to earn while they learn, making it a viable option for those looking to advance their careers.
Conclusion:
The demand for Pilates Reformer teachers in the UK is soaring as Group Reformer studios continue to multiply across the country. While the UK has been slow to embrace Pilates Apparatus, the changing landscape presents a golden opportunity for Matwork Instructors to upskill and contribute to the growing Pilates Reformer movement. As the demand continues to rise, investing in qualified instructors will be crucial to meet the needs of the expanding Pilates market.
Author: Chris Onslow - Pilates Consultant
Chris Onslow, has run Pilates focussed businesses since 1998. He and his team specialise in supporting Pilates entrepreneurs and business owners. With a rich history of owning and running successful Pilates studios in the UK, and supporting others in Europe and the Middle East, Chris has broad expertise in maximising profitability and optimising operational efficiency. His agency provides top-tier advice on selecting new, pre-owned, and hireable Pilates equipment from renowned brands such as Align-Pilates, Balanced Body or Stott-Pilates/Merrithew. As the founder of Mbodies Training Academy, Chris continues to revolutionise Pilates education, offering premier online and hybrid CPD and qualification courses for Pilates apparatus instruction and special population CPD. Discover more about how Chris can support your Pilates Business or home exercise choices at www.pilates-consultant.co.uk