With different choices for pilates certificates, it is quite challenging to decide which is better. Why not become a BCRPA pilates instructor? BCRPA is regarded as the biggest provincial governing body of fitness instructors in Canada. This means that with certification under BCRPA, employers and clients will see you as having a high standard of professionalism and qualification.
What is a Pilates Instructor?
First of all, Pilates is a method of exercise that involves a series of controlled movements. It is low-impact and great for improving flexibility, muscular strength, and endurance. The goal of Pilates is to focus on proper postural alignment, engaging the core, and balancing muscles on both sides of your body.
A pilates instructor’s role is to design, modifying, and lead clients (either in a group or solo). The instructor ensures that they are providing effective exercises depending on the needs of their clients.
Become a BCRPA Pilates Instructor
There are few core steps to becoming a BCRPA pilates instructor.
Step 1: Enroll in a Fitness Theory Course and Pass the BCRPA Fitness Theory Exam
You will want to study for the Fitness Theory exam, especially if you do not have any fitness education background. Questions on the exam can be tricky, and a good portion of it is on anatomy, physiology, and movement mechanics; if you are concerned about the exam, no worries! We have the course just for you! Study anywhere, anytime on your own time. Our self-paced course gives you all the tools to succeed and pass your exam. Whether you like filled-in-the-blank notes, lectures, and quizzes, we have all of that. Best of all, you can go over the practise questions and exams as many times as you need!
Most of the courses out there can go up to $565. With us, you will get the best value and the best price. It is a win-win! If you are curious, here is the breakdown of the exam.
Once you are ready to take the exam, or even before you enroll, register with BCRPA. You can find more info here.
Step 2: Obtain CPR & First Aid
Congrats! Now it is time for you to get your CPR & First Aid Certification. The minimum level for your CPR is level A. For your First Aid, it can be either Emergency or Standard. If you plan on waiting a bit later until you register for your first-year registration, it may be better to wait. This is so that your certifications will not expire too early.
This can be a blend of in-class and online or purely in-class. Online classes are not accepted. Make sure that your certifications are issued by these companies (even if they are not the ones providing the classes):
- Canadian Ski Patrol
- St. John’s Ambulance
- Red Cross
- Lifesaving Society
- Heart and Stroke Foundation
Once you have obtained your certifications, input this info under the CPR Certificate and First Aid Certificate tabs in your account in the Registry.
Having CPR and first aid certifications will allow you to be covered by insurance (it comes with your first-year registration).
Step 3: Acquire Your First-Year Registration
Now that you have everything you need, you are ready to register for your first year. The cost is $109 + tax. You will have 1 year before you need to register for your first year. After you have registered, you will have an additional year to complete your pilates course and exam.
Step 4: BCRPA Pilates Instructor Course + Practical
You are almost there! Choose a pilates course with a BCRPA approved provider. Most courses will be a minimum of 40 hours, and the layout of the course will vary depending on your instructor.
In addition to the course, you will need to take a practice and instructor competency evaluation (ICE). This involves 8h practicum (can be online) where you “teach” a class to your instructor. You will need to perform the ICE with a qualified ICE evaluator.
Congratulations! You are now a Pilates instructor!
This is What I Want! Sign me Up!
Head over to our course and begin enrolling in the Fitness Theory course now. Begin the journey that you have always dreamt of today!