ISSA Reformer Pilates instructor smiling beside a client performing a seated side stretch on a reformer in a bright Pilates studio

What You'll Learn

ISSA's Reformer Pilates program covers
  • Identify reformer components, explain the spring resistance system, and perform equipment safety checks for the Pilates Reformer.
  • Explain how the reformer changes movement mechanics and how it differs from traditional exercise equipment.
  • Explain and leverage preparatory movements as appropriate to ensure clients can effectively perform the foundational exercises in Reformer Pilates.
  • Teach and cue the 27 foundational, intermediate, and advanced reformer exercises with the appropriate spring selection, alignment cues, and spotting techniques.
  • Design modern reformer sessions for diverse populations including athletes, active older adults, and clients with orthopedic considerations.
  • Apply professional and ethical standards specific to reformer instruction in gym and studios.

What's Included

Our curriculum is designed to give you both scientific knowledge and practical skills to excel as a Reformer Pilates Instructor.

Including all these tools to help you pass!
  • 100% online learning so you can learn anytime, anywhere, on any device.
  • Earn your certification with an online, open-book, open-note exam you can complete on your schedule.
  • Before completing your certification, submit a minimum requirement of 15 hours of Reformer Pilates self-practice.
  • Demonstrate real reformer Pilates instruction and walk away with the confidence that you can teach it, not just pass a test.
  • Reinforce your progress with low-pressure quizzes designed to check your understanding along the way.
  • A dedicated foundation in functional anatomy, core stabilization, breathing, and movement analysis.
  • Narrated walkthroughs for all 27-move reformer Pilates exercises plus a silent Reformer exercise demo library for practice.
  • Downloadable contraindications guide and sample class templates.
  • A complete reference ebook in a printer-friendly PDF, so you can study on screen or on paper.
  • Access a support team when you need it, from the time you enroll through certification
  • Watch as professionals break down complex concepts into clear, actionable steps with a comprehensive instructional video library.

Certification Process

  • 1
    Enroll in the Program

    Sign up and get immediate access to all course materials and our learning platform.
  • 2
    Submit Practice Log

    Before completing your certification, submit a minimum requirement of 15 hours of Reformer Pilates self-practice.
  • 3
    Pass the ISSA Certification Exam

    Successfully pass your ISSA certification exam.
  • 4
    Upload Video Submission

    Demonstrate your mastery with a required practical video submission that confirms you can put your knowledge into practice.
  • 5
    Upload CPR Card

    Included for free in most bundles or also available separately through ISSA!
  • 6
    Receive Your Certification

    Your hard work pays off - receive your e-Certificate of course completion.

Reformer Pilates Instructor Certification

  • Join a global community of over 1 million certified trainers

  • Study anytime, anywhere with 100% online, self-paced learning

  • Engaging video lessons for every reformer exercise, plus a hands-on video practical

  • Connect with employers through Career Connect and ISSA's 23,000+ partner fitness locations

Reformer Pilates instructors don't just run through the repertoire. They manage exercise challenges, offer appropriate modifications, and adjust a Pilates flow in real time. That's what this certification trains you to do.

The ISSA Reformer Pilates Certification is a complete, standalone credential. You'll master the components of the Pilates Reformer (carriage, springs, footbar, straps), how its mechanics differ from traditional exercise machinery, movement quality and efficiency as well as the full 27-exercise Reformer repertoire. Complete with exercise modifications, movement considerations, and suggestions for spring selection, alignment cues, and spotting technique, you can be confident in your ability to deepen someone’s Pilates practice.

This discipline is deep and we need you to be prepared for the studio. To earn your certification, you’ll pass the online exam and submit a video practical assessment showing your ability to set up the reformer and demonstrate and teach six required exercises with narrated cues.

Already Mat Pilates certified? Start here. Our course is open to instructors who are Mat Pilates certified through ISSA or any other nationally recognized program (you’ll start with a brief recap and complete ISSA's Anatomy & Movement Science foundation first). You'll need access to a reformer for self-practice and to complete this training.

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Why 
It Works

Exclusive Employer Network

Gain direct, priority access to more than 23,000 gyms, studios, and health clubs actively seeking certified talent.

Industry-Respected Credentials

ISSA offers an accredited personal training certification exam through its subsidiary, the National Council for Certified Personal Trainers (NCCPT).

100% Money-Back Promise

Get a full refund if you don’t land a fitness job within six months of completing all required credentialing, as long as you meet eligibility requirements.

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Frequently
Asked Questions

  • With ISSA, you can become a certified personal trainer in as little as 3 months, although the timeline is flexible since our programs are self-paced. Many students complete their certification while maintaining their current jobs or other responsibilities.

  • ISSA stands out with our 100% Money Back Job Guarantee on eligible programs and our flexible online learning platform. In our Certified Personal Training course, you also have the option to add live sessions to better support your learning. Most importantly - ISSA's certification is recognized worldwide by top fitness employers.

  • With an ISSA certification, you can pursue a variety of career paths in personal training, group fitness, and nutrition coaching. Our certification is recognized by over 23,000 gyms nationwide, giving you access to a wide network of potential employers as you advance in your fitness career. Plus, our job guarantee provides extra confidence in your ability to succeed.

  • Eligible purchases of ISSA’s Certified Personal Trainer, Advanced Health Coach and Yoga 200 programs. In a bundle, the guarantee covers the eligible program’s share of the price. Other courses and specializations are not covered on their own.

  • Absolutely! ISSA’s programs are designed with support systems in place to help you succeed. Our courses support a variety of learning styles through a mix of videos and readings. Plus, we include practice quizzes, and some courses include live study groups, so you can confidently prepare for the certification exam.

    Not all courses offer live learning

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