College of Visual and Performing Arts | Dance | Dance Degrees and Programs | Pilates Certification Program
Pilates Certification Program
Balanced Body Pilates Certification at UNCG
Undergraduate and graduate majors and minors in the School of Dance can pursue a professional Pilates certification at UNCG. Pilates practice engages the mind and body to create exercises that improve physical health. The professional certification program is a 12-credit certification endorsed and led by industry leader Balanced Body faculty and is completed in 4 academic courses. Mat and Reformer certification allows students to teach in private and group settings. Pilates is a form of exercise and somatic conditioning founded by Joseph Pilates. Among many other benefits, Pilates strengthens the core, improves balance, develops flexibility, increases coordination, and decreases stress.
*The Pilates Certification Program may admit students from other majors based on interest and availability.
For questions regarding the program please contact Balanced Body faculty and Director of Dance Education Dr. Mila Parrish Mlparri4@UNCG.edu
Pilates Certification Program Information
The University of North Carolina Greensboro School of Dance offers dance majors or minors an opportunity to pursue a Pilates certification in Mat and Reformer, a necessary step in pursuing a career as a Pilates Instructor. Based on the work of Joseph Pilates. The Pilates Method, developed by Joseph Pilates (1880-1967), provides balance and vitality to the body through mindful exercise and neuromuscular re-education. The Pilates principles address posture, muscle performance, and motor control through synchronized movement, breath, and spring resistance. Pilates emphasizes spinal and pelvic alignment, breathing to relieve stress and provide oxygen flow to muscles, developing a strong core or center, and improving coordination and balance.
The UNCG School of Dance and Balanced Body curriculum combines traditional and contemporary Pilates to bring students a thorough understanding of the Pilates method. Our signature approach teaches the movement principles, pedagogical skills, class design, and client-specific applications of each exercise. Coursework offered through the UNCG School of Dance provides a comprehensive experience that prepares students to become successful Pilates Instructors.
To apply to the Pilates Certification program:
Dr. Mila Parrish, UNCG Professor of Dance and Balanced Body Faculty, leads the Curriculum in Movement Principles, Mat, and Reformer. Professional certifications acquired are through Balanced Body are regarded as the industry standard and Balanced Body is a leader in Mind-Body Education with a global network of master instructors and authorized training centers in over 50 countries.
UNCG School of Dance uniquely offers a specialization in Pilates, which can lead to certification in Pilates Mat and Reformer. Pilates Certification is obtained alongside a Dance degree at the University of North Carolina Greensboro. Pilates coursework provides credit towards a degree in Dance or as an elective. In addition to credit hours, additional fees include the purchase of required materials, payment for the final test out, and the optional purchase of a certificate printed by Balanced Body.
Requirements
UNCG’s Pilates certification program covers both Pilates mat pedagogy, practicum, and final test-out in Pilates mat [levels 1-3], and Pilates reformer pedagogy consisting of pedagogy, instruction practicum, and self-study using the Pilates reformer apparatus along with a final test-out in Pilates reformer [levels 1-3]. As students progress through the curriculum, they combine their academic knowledge with hands-on practicum work through observation and organized teaching sessions.
The Pilates Mat and Reformer Certification requires the following:
- DCE 432/632 Introduction to Pilates (1-3 credits) or DCE 244 Pilates for a Healthy Body (3 credits )
- DCE 435/DCE 635 Pilates: Advanced Practice for Dancers (3 credits )
- DCE 433/DCE 653 Pilates Theory (3 credits )
- DCE 436/DCE 636 Practicum in Teaching Pilates (2 credits)
Candidates must purchase 7 Balanced Body Pilates Mat and Reformer manuals, pilates props.
Mat Practice Requirements
- Complete a minimum of 15 observation hours of Pilates Mat (8 hours obtained in coursework; other hours can be logged through individual or group instruction at UNCG or Pilates studios).
- Complete a minimum of 20 hours of Pilates Mat personal sessions (12 hours obtained in coursework; other hours can be logged through individual or group instruction at UNCG or in Pilates studios)
- Complete at least 35 teaching hours of Pilates Mat (some hours will be incorporated into the course curriculum, while other hours can be logged through individual or group instruction in Pilates studios).
Reformer Practice Requirements
- Complete a minimum of 30 hours of Pilates Reformer personal sessions (10 hours obtained in coursework; other hours can be logged through individual or group instruction at UNCG or in Pilates studios)
- Complete a minimum of 30 hours of Pilates Reformer personal sessions (10 hours obtained in coursework, remaining hours can be logged through individual or group instruction at UNCG or in Pilates studios)
- Complete a minimum of 90 teaching hours of Pilates Reformer (some hours will be incorporated into the UNCG course curriculum, while other hours can be logged through individual or group instruction at UNCG or in Pilates studios). Pass written and practical exams (written exams is a part of the UNCG curriculum. A final teaching exam will need to be arranged by the individual with a certified Balanced Body Master Instructor (BB MI). This exam can be completed locally with Professor Dr. Mila Parrish or arranged through another BB MI; fees for time and space will likely apply). Purchase an Official Instructor Certificate (optional).
“The Pilates program has helped me enhance my performance, technique, and overall well-being as a dancer!”
Chloe Arteberry UNCG Pilates Certification Program student
Contact
If you are interested in the program reach out to:
Dr. Mila Parrish mlparri4@uncg.edu
Instagram @UNCGpilates
Visit Balanced Body certification programs for more detail.
https://www.pilates.com/education/pilates-instructor-training/
Pioneers in Pilates: School of Dance Launches Certificate Program
The Pilates Certificate Program is a collaboration between Balanced Body and UNCG.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long is the Pilates Certification program?
The Pilates Certification Program takes 3-4 semesters to complete. The coursework for the program starts in the spring and must be completed sequentially. Students must have at least 3 semesters on campus remaining in their time at UNCG to be admitted to the program.
Do I have to be a dance major?
You do not need to be a dance major to apply for the Pilates Certification program. However, the program requires a deep understanding of the body and the way it moves. Students who do not display an appropriate level of prerequisite knowledge will not be admitted to the program. Ongoing skill assessment is required. Students who need skill development may be asked to complete additional Pilates instruction.
How do I know if the program is right for me?
The program is for any student who has a goal of teaching Mat and Reformer Pilates. You must have an understanding of somatics, a passion for working out, teaching, and
encouraging others. If you are not sure if the program is right for you, we encourage you to take DCE 244 (Pilates for a healthy body) before applying to the certification program.