Call: 562 343-5511
Email: studio@vero-pilates.com
The Lab by Vero Pilates
An Experienced Teacher Trainer With A Passion For Inspiring New Generations!
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In August 2023 we are launching our first round of teacher training under the guidance of our experienced senior instructor, Andrea Smith. With ten+ years of experience as a teacher trainer for BASI, Andrea comes to the role with a wealth of knowledge, passion, and drive in helping new generations of instructors discover their unique voice and approach to teaching the Pilates Method.
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A Proven & Trusted Comprehensive Curriculum
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The Lab is a reputable program out of Chicago that takes a comprehensive classical approach to teaching the Pilates Method. The goal of the program is to give students a fully rounded understanding of the entire system of exercises using all the equipment including: mat, reformer, cadillac, wunda chair, ladder barrel, arc, and magic circle, and how these apply to helping clients daily improve their strength, mobility, and manage injuries as well as chronic conditions.
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An Intimate & Supportive Learning Environment
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The Vero Pilates teacher training program will be limited to a maximum of 10 participants to allow for an intimate and supportive learning experience for all participants. Seven instructional weekends spread out between August - November will provide the backbone of the learning while students will round out their training with self-practice hours, observation time, and practice teaching.
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Access To A Fully Equipped Studio For Completing All Requirements
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Teacher training students will enjoy access to the studio during normal studio hours to allow for plenty of opportunities to complete required hours. Learn about more benefits.
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Get in touch!
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We are excited and honored to support a new generation of Pilates instructors! For more details on the schedule, fees, and requirements, please fill out the below form. We can't wait to speak with you!
Join the waitlist!
Discover your potential
What's Included
Meet your Teacher Trainer,
Andrea Smith
Hi! I'm Andrea. I am the Senior Instructor at Vero Pilates as well as the teacher trainer of our upcoming Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training Program. I've been teaching Pilates for 18 years and 10 of those years included teaching new generations of Pilates instructors to become knowledgeable, skilled, and confident teachers.
I am passionate about movement and the many benefits it brings to people. My fascination with movement began at a very young age and I spent most of my life as a dancer until inujries caught up with me. Once I started taking Pilates classes, it was like suddenly I could see what was going on inside my body and pinpoint the issues. Gradually, as I learned more and more and dove deeper into the work, I realized that not only could I heal myself, but I could help others heal as well. I became certified in 2006 with Body Arts and Science International (BASI) and have enjoyed a wonderful career as an instructor.
In 2010 I became faculty with BASI and travelled throughout the U.S. and the world as a teacher trainer. During that time I worked with students from all walks of life, from dancers and athletes healing from injuries, to homemakers and executives looking for a change. No matter what, my ultimate goal for students is to help them grasp the fundamentals of how the body moves, and how these fundamentals apply to each and every exercise.
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The amazing thing about the process of becoming a Pilates instructor is that the knowledge and skills gained can be applied to all aspects of life. The hours spent studying the body and practicing the movements can be a profound period of personal growth. During the course, we are developing and expanding our awareness, gaining greater self control and pushing the limits of our capabilities. So even those who don't go on to become instructors benefit from the program. And for those who do, the sky is the limit. When it comes to the body, there is always more to learn and explore. As time goes on, new discoveries are made and the work will evolve differently for each individual. I believe that whatever your goals are, real transformation is possible.
WHAT FORMER STUDENTS SAY
VERONICA L.
Having a 20+ year background in classical ballet and almost 30 years of Pilates experience I rarely find teachers who still make a big impact on my practice. Andrea is one of those teachers. Her knowledge and experience in Pilates and bodywork in general have been transformational for me both in how I work out and how I teach.
She taught me how to breathe in a way no other teacher ever has. Not only has this had a massive impact on me personally (especially in my pregnancy and birth) but on all of my students. I find myself often crediting her when teaching and am so grateful and joyful to have been in her classes.
If you are lucky enough to learn from Andrea count your blessings and make a point to be sure you understand each lesson truly because there is a wealth of value in every detail.
ERICA L.
I knew I wanted to teach Pilates, but I didn't fully grasp what that meant until I had Andrea as a teacher trainer. She is exactly who you need to guide you into the Pilates world. There are so many elements to being an instructor that you will not be prepared for and Andrea did such an amazing job communicating, connecting and guiding our group in an approachable way. Her methods are structured and organized, but she leaves lots of room for fun, interactive practicing. I learned the most in my time with her, especially unpacking detailed questions that you may not get to ask in any other setting. She is extremely knowledgeable and honest, offering real-life tips on career longevity, how to survive potential challenges, how to be a top-tier instructor and how to soak up all that Pilates has to offer!
JANET P.
(2023 Trainee)
"The environment at the studio is so warm and friendly, the teachers are exceptional, the space has everything you need, and the members are so kind. (...) Community is so important and Vero Pilates makes that a priority by offering educational and fun events throughout the year that are not to be missed.
I am currently enrolled in their teacher training program and can not sing the praises of Andrea Smith enough. I put a lot of thought and research into the training opportunities in the LA/OC area and I can’t imagine having a better experience than I’m having with Vero Pilates. One thing that really stands out is Andrea's sincere passion and love for Pilates which shows through in her teaching the method with detail and precision. The best part is you get her years of experience as a teacher trainer offered in a fully equipped studio that has the most welcoming and encouraging staff and members.
Teacher Training Schedule
February 2024
Dates TBD
March 2024
Dates TBD
April 2024
Dates TBD
May 2024
Dates TBD
Hours:
Fridays 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Saturdays 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sundays 12:00 pm - 5:00 pm
CONTACT US
I would like to learn more about the program.
We know what it takes, and then some.
Hi! I'm Veronica. I'm the studio owner of Vero Pilates. I'm so excited that you are interested in learning more about our upcoming comprehensive Pilates teacher training program. After teaching Pilates for 15 years and owning my studio for 10 of those years, I have a solid understanding of what is required for a Pilates instructor to be successful professionally. Over the years I have interviewed and hired many Pilates instructors from a variety of training and professional backgrounds.
The first basic requirement we look for when hiring a Pilates instructor is that they have a COMPREHENSIVE Pilates teacher training certification. This is vital because in order to address the individual needs of the clients we work with every day as instructors, we need access to all the tools in the Pilates toolbox.
Pilates is a highly adaptable exercise method that allows for a large variety of approaches to each movement pattern. A comprehensive training program will teach you how to be flexible and adaptable in your teaching.
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Secondly we ask candidates to audition for us. They are asked to teach a beginner private Pilates session as well as a semi-private group session. We are looking to see if a candidate has the confidence, cueing, and flow that is needed to successfully teach a session and help clients feel change in their bodies. This type of confidence is not something that is easily taught but it is an art and a skill that can be learned with the right type of coaching.
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Our training program is unique in that we are focused on empowering new generations of instructors to be FULLY prepared and confident when they step into their careers as Pilates instructors.
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The lecture weekends alone include 90 hours of expert instruction. Quality mentoring at this level can cost anywhere from $120 - $180/ hour if you were to book it independently.
As a trainee you will also receive complimentary access to semi-private sessions in studio when last minute openings are available. A semi-private training membership at a boutique studio ranges anywhere from $200-$400/ month.
In addition, you will have access to our fully equipped studio for your self-practice, observation, and practice teaching hours. Studios where teacher trainings are taught often either do not have all the necessary equipment for trainees to use, or they do not provide sufficient time for trainees to use the equipment.
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Think about it! In what professional field can you take a certification and start a paid apprenticeship before finishing the training so you can start earning back on your investment? Considering starting hourly wages for new Pilates instructors are approximately $30.00/hour, you can literally pay your whole training off in less than 3 months working only 20 hours/week.
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Pilates is a profession that will help you stay healthy while you change the lives of those you teach for the better!
FAQ
What is a comprehensive Pilates teacher training program? A comprehensive Pilates teacher training program covers all of the main apparatus created by Joseph Pilates and includes all levels of instruction - beginner, intermediate, and advanced. A program like this should cover the Mat, the Reformer, the Cadillac, the Wunda Chair, the Ladder Barrel, the Arc, and the Magic Circle.
I've only taken a few Pilates sessions. Am I ready to take this program? The answer is "yes". Anyone can qualify to take this program as long as you're interested in learning more about the Pilates Method and how to teach it to other people.
How long will it take me to complete the program? On average, it takes approximately one year of study and practice to test out from a comprehensive Pilates teacher training program. Much will depend on the amount of time you are able to dedicate to your learning and practice.
Can I take this course while working? Yes. It will take more planning, but it is possible. Lecture weekends are in person and include Friday afternoons. You will need to make arrangements to attend these sessions. When it comes to self-practice, observation, and practice teaching hours, these can be scheduled around your availability.
Do you offer payment plans? Yes. A non-refundable $500 fee is required at the time of registration. The remainder of the program cost can be broken into payments corresponding with each lecture weekend for a total of 6 payments.
Do I need to have a background in fitness or movement to qualify for the program? No. People from all walks of life take Pilates teacher training for a variety of reasons. Some want to start or add a new career to their professional life. Others are inspired by the idea of helping others move and feel good in their bodies. What matters is having the curiosity to learn about Pilates and be willing to go on the journey :)
Do you offer Vero Pilates membership discounts for trainees? Yes. Trainees are eligible for a 20% discount on any Vero Pilates membership plan.
Do I need to live in Long Beach to take this program? No. As long as you can attend the lecture weekends, you can do your other practice and observation hours at other studios. We are happy to support you in finding local studios where you can fulfill your hour requirements.
What are my career options after completing this certification? Your internationally recognized comprehensive Pilates teacher training certification will allow you to apply for teaching positions in boutique studios, PT offices, chiropractic offices, and larger gym facilities. The possibilities are endless!