Joseph Hubertus Pilates (1883–1967), known as Joe Pilates, founded the Pilates method, originally called "Contrology." He developed his unique approach to fitness focused on the mind-body connection, core strength, flexibility, and breath control.
Pilates' method gained popularity for its ability to enhance physical fitness, mental clarity, and holistic well-being. Today, his legacy lives on worldwide through Pilates mat and apparatus exercises.

Clara Josephine Pilates, Joe’s wife, was a pivotal instructor who helped develop, refine, and preserve the Pilates method after his passing. Her focus on precision and the mind-body connection shaped how Pilates is taught worldwide.

Romana Kryzanowska (1923–2013) was the most celebrated protégé of Joseph and Clara Pilates, and a global ambassador for the classical Pilates method. Trained as a dancer, Romana began working with Joe and Clara in the 1940s in New York, eventually becoming entrusted with carrying on the original studio and the authentic teaching method after Joe's passing. She trained and certified generations of Pilates teachers—including many who would become industry leaders. Romana’s commitment to preserving “true Pilates” led her to collaborate with top healthcare professionals and personally oversee programs like The Pilates Studio® of Los Angeles, solidifying its reputation as an official training center. Her influence continues worldwide, and she is widely credited with ensuring the global success and preservation of the Pilates legacy.

Dr. Melinda Bryan, DPT, is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, internationally recognized Principal Pilates Master Teacher Trainer, and co-founder of The Pilates Studio® of Los Angeles and Pilates Certification Online (PCO). Since 1992, Dr. Bryan has been a pioneer in professionalizing Pilates teacher education. She worked directly with Romana Kryzanowska to develop the first medically reviewed Pilates certification in the U.S., overseeing curriculum development and clinical safety reviews with leading orthopedic surgeons. Dr. Bryan is the author of PCO’s official teacher training manuals (in 14+ languages) and has educated thousands of instructors around the world. Her commitment to combining classical Pilates with modern medical science continues to shape the industry’s highest standards.

Kaz® is a global Pilates innovator, music creator, and digital education pioneer. As co-founder of The Pilates Studio® of Los Angeles and PCO, Kaz has played a leading role in expanding access to authentic Pilates education for over three decades. He helped establish the first official online Pilates certification platform, developed Pilates.TV, and launched the Pilates World Directory—the largest global registry for authentic Pilates professionals. Kaz is also the producer of the Pilates Music For Life Series (on Apple Music and Amazon), which is widely used by teachers worldwide. His vision continues to connect the Pilates community through technology, music, and education.

The Pilates Studio® of Los Angeles was founded in 1992 by Dr. Melinda Bryan and Kaz®, with mentorship from Romana Kryzanowska and the support of Mr. S Gallagher, a key associate. At the time, it became the first professionally organized, medically reviewed Pilates certification center in the United States. Dr. Bryan worked closely with Romana and top orthopedic surgeons to review and refine every exercise, ensuring the program’s medical safety and credibility. The Studio became the official West Coast training center, with Romana personally overseeing instructor training during her regular visits. This legacy of professionalism, medical expertise, and authentic Pilates teaching is the foundation of Pilates Certification Online (PCO), which continues to set the highest standard for Pilates education globally.

• Strengthens the core and deep muscle groups
• Improves flexibility, posture, and body alignment
• Increases balance, coordination, and awareness
• Reduces stress, improves energy, and supports injury recovery
• Adapts to all ages and physical abilities

Yes. Pilates is suitable for all ages, from teens to seniors. Exercises can be modified for every fitness level and condition.

The 4 spring Reformer is Joseph Pilates' original design and considered the classical standard. The 5/6 spring Reformers were introduced in the 1980s–1990s for the commercial market and contemporary styles. Both are valid, but PCO teaches on the 4 spring (authentic) and covers modifications for others.

Yes! PCO’s structured online courses match the rigor and depth of in-person learning. Students worldwide become certified each year via video instruction, support, and a live-tested exam process.

• Technology Integration: Wearables, online courses, VR/AR for Pilates education
• Hybrid Workouts: Pilates + yoga, strength, or dance
• Specialized Programs: For seniors, rehab, sports, or niche communities
• Community Focus: Social events, wellness, and mental health support

• Provide excellent, personalized instruction
• Develop strong client relationships and a professional online presence
• Use marketing, referrals, and continuing education
• Engage with your local and global Pilates community

• Pilates Music For Life Series: Apple Music | Amazon
• Training Manuals/Books: Official PCO training manuals (14+ languages), available via your PCO account or Pilates Studio Store.

No prior experience is required! PCO courses are designed for everyone—from complete beginners to advanced students. All exercises and principles are taught step-by-step, so you can build knowledge and confidence as you go.

Yes. PCO programs welcome students of all ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels. Our curriculum is flexible and can be adapted for individual needs, making Pilates teaching accessible to everyone.

To update the name on your certificate or profile, log in to your PCO account and go to Dashboard > Settings. Update your “First Name” and “Last Name” fields, and ensure the “Display Name Publicly As” field matches your preferred certificate name. Save changes, log out, then log back in to see the update. If you need a new certificate issued, contact Support.

As of 2025, PCO certifications do not expire and do not require renewal. However, we recommend continuing education to keep your skills current.

Yes. PCO periodically offers scholarships and flexible payment plans to support students. Visit our Pricing page or contact Support for the latest options and eligibility.

Pilates Certification Online (PCO) is the online division of The Pilates Studio® of Los Angeles, founded in 1992 by Dr. Melinda Bryan, DPT, a Principal Pilates Master Teacher Trainer with over 30 years of experience. PCO was developed in collaboration with Romana Kryzanowska—Joseph Pilates’ most celebrated protégé—to preserve and expand access to authentic, classical Pilates education. PCO was the first internationally recognized professional Pilates certification program offered online. Our courses, exams, and official teacher training manuals (available in 14+ languages) are used by leading universities, studios, and training centers worldwide.

PCO is unique for its commitment to maintaining Joseph Pilates’ original teachings while updating the curriculum for modern learners. All instructors are highly experienced and internationally respected. Our flexible, self-paced program supports students from all backgrounds, including career-changers and fitness professionals, offering them the chance to earn authentic Pilates certification with the same rigor as traditional, in-person programs. PCO has helped thousands of graduates teach globally in top studios, clinics, and universities.

The PCO certification program is medically reviewed and professionally organized by Dr. Melinda Bryan, DPT, in collaboration with Romana Kryzanowska, and with the support of Mr. S Gallagher, a key associate in early program development. The curriculum was originally reviewed by leading orthopedic surgeons in Los Angeles to ensure safety and evidence-based teaching. All instructors are highly qualified, and PCO maintains the highest standards for classical Pilates certification recognized worldwide.

In the early 1990s, Dr. Melinda Bryan identified the need for medically reviewed, professional Pilates education. Together with Romana Kryzanowska and in consultation with top orthopedic surgeons, each Pilates exercise was reviewed for safety and anatomical soundness. This process established The Pilates Studio® of Los Angeles and PCO as the first Pilates certification program in the U.S. to align with contemporary medical standards. Today, all PCO courses maintain this legacy of clinical rigor, ensuring your education meets both classical and modern fitness and safety guidelines.

PCO is the original online certification platform for authentic, classical Pilates, founded in 1992 as The Pilates Studio® of Los Angeles. Unlike many newer or contemporary programs, PCO offers:

• Medically reviewed curriculum, originally developed with Romana Kryzanowska and leading orthopedic surgeons
• Official manuals in 14+ languages
• Global recognition and acceptance for insurance and employment
• Flexible, self-paced online access to the same rigorous standards as in-person programs
• Legacy of 30+ years’ experience and leadership in the Pilates community

Yes. PCO is recognized around the world as one of the most established, classical Pilates training centers. Our graduates have gone on to teach in more than 30 countries, and the PCO official certification and manuals are respected by employers, professional organizations, and insurance providers globally. We are the only authentic Pilates certifying center offering official teacher training and manuals in 14+ languages, making the curriculum accessible to diverse international students.

Classical Pilates strictly follows Joseph Pilates’ original system, as taught by him and preserved by his first-generation students (like Romana Kryzanowska and Kathy Grant). This method uses a precise sequence, original equipment, and classical cueing and progressions. Contemporary Pilates, by contrast, adapts, changes, or combines Joseph Pilates’ methods with modern fitness trends, new exercises, and sometimes new apparatus. Both approaches have value, but classical Pilates is recognized for maintaining the original, time-tested method and principles. PCO specializes in classical Pilates, providing the only comprehensive online program based directly on the original lineage.

Yes, most likely. Many PCO graduates have successfully joined the NPCP (formerly PMA) registry and taken the NPCP exam if they choose to. However, it's important to understand that the NPCP and PMA are independent, membership-based organizations. Membership or approval is always by choice, not mandatory for teaching Pilates, employment, or insurance.

The National Pilates Certification Program (NPCP, formerly the Pilates Method Alliance or PMA) is not a government regulatory body—it is a voluntary organization offering an additional, optional credential, mainly for the contemporary Pilates community. Whether a company or individual is considered "approved" depends on membership status, which can change if a membership lapses, is not renewed, or if the organization itself changes its criteria. PCO has always operated independently as a globally respected, classical Pilates certifying center.

Pilates Certification Online (PCO) and The Pilates Studio® of Los Angeles were established in 1992, almost a decade before the PMA/NPCP (founded 2001). Our certification is widely recognized and accepted worldwide by employers and insurance providers. Most Pilates instructors—including those in the contemporary community—seek NPCP/PMA membership only if they wish, but it is never a legal or professional requirement for certification, employment, or insurance.

In summary: PCO is an internationally respected leader in classical Pilates education. NPCP/PMA recognition is available by choice but not required, and PCO graduates routinely obtain all necessary credentials for successful teaching careers.

Yes. All major PCO certification courses and the official training manuals are available in English, Spanish, Japanese, and Korean. German and other translations are in progress. PCO is the first Pilates certification program to offer official manuals in more than 14 languages, ensuring accessibility and consistent training quality for international students and institutions.

In the United States, Pilates instructors are not required to obtain a government-issued license. However, employers and insurance providers typically require a reputable certification, such as the one provided by PCO. Requirements vary by country, so international students should check local regulations. PCO certification is recognized in most countries for teaching, employment, and obtaining professional liability insurance.

Yes. Once you are a certified Pilates instructor, you are eligible to purchase professional liability insurance (sometimes called Pilates teacher insurance). Many major insurance carriers accept PCO’s certification. Coverage is highly recommended for anyone teaching group or private classes, either in a studio or independently. Requirements may differ by country; always verify with your chosen insurance provider.

In many cases, up to 30 hours of prior apprenticeship or teaching experience may be credited toward your PCO program—if completed within one year prior to enrollment, under the supervision of a certified Pilates instructor, and with supporting documentation. If you have a certificate from another program, contact PCO Support to see if advanced placement or credit is possible. Each application is reviewed individually to ensure consistency with our standards.

Yes. PCO periodically offers scholarships and flexible payment plans to support students. Visit our Pricing page or contact Support for the latest options and eligibility.

The total apprenticeship hours required depend on your certification path:

• Complete (Comprehensive) Program: 450 hours (includes Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, Barrels, and all apparatus)
• Mat Certification: 100 hours
• Reformer Certification: 150 hours

Up to 30 previously accrued hours (with proper documentation) may be applied if completed within one year prior to your first PCO course. Apprenticeship hours can be completed at any qualified studio, with observation, practice teaching, and personal practice all counting towards your total. PCO provides detailed log sheets to track hours, and all hours must be supervised and signed off by a Certified Pilates Instructor.

Yes! You may receive up to 40 hours for the complete program (or 10 hours for the Mat or Reformer Certification) by completing all video modules and passing the online quizzes. These hours are automatically credited after course completion; no additional log sheets are needed for video hours.

PCO provides downloadable log sheets and detailed instructions in your student account under the Resources tab. For each category (Observation, Practice Teaching, Personal Practice), record the date, hours, activity, location, and supervising instructor’s name and signature. All documentation must be organized and submitted with your final exam. Your supervising instructor must be PCO-certified or another recognized Pilates professional (see policy for full details). Log sheets and forms must be submitted digitally (PDF/photo scans) with your video test package.

• Observation: Watching certified instructors teach (max 20 hours for comprehensive, 10 for Mat/Reformer)
• Practice Teaching: Teaching Pilates sessions to real clients under supervision (majority of hours)
• Independent Study: Self-practice or self-review (up to 40 hours, allowed only after passing the relevant course videos and test)
• Workshops/Seminars: Pilates-specific workshops, conferences, or seminars (if approved by PCO in advance)

Any certified Pilates instructor may supervise your hours as long as they can provide proof of their certification and agree to sign off on your log sheets. Your supervisor does not have to be affiliated with PCO, but all credentials are verified by PCO before your final exam is approved.

Up to 30 hours of prior group classes or private sessions may be credited if:

• The classes were completed within one year before your first PCO course
• They were taught or supervised by a certified Pilates instructor
• You provide documentation (e.g., signed statement, letter from the studio, or receipts)

Yes! Many students log hours at multiple studios or with multiple instructors. Each supervising instructor must verify the hours they oversaw by signing your log sheets. This can give you a broader educational experience.

Absolutely. PCO supports students worldwide. You may complete apprenticeship hours with any Certified Pilates Instructor who meets PCO’s criteria. The instructor does not have to be affiliated with PCO, but you must provide their credentials and contact information for verification. This flexibility makes it easy for international students and those in remote areas to fulfill their apprenticeship requirements locally. Additional guidance is available upon request.

PCO welcomes students worldwide, including those in rural or remote areas. If you do not have a Pilates studio or instructor nearby, we offer flexible options to support your certification journey.

• Online Coursework:
  Complete your required courses and modules online at your own pace, with access to all necessary learning resources.
• Remote Apprenticeship (case-by-case):
  Since 2025, PCO has expanded our policy and now allows remote apprenticeship and practice teaching options for students in locations where certified instructors or studios are not available. You may combine local fitness professionals, virtual supervision, or online mentoring to fulfill your practical requirements—please contact us for details and approval.
• Video Assessment & Feedback:
  Submit teaching videos for review, receive detailed feedback, and participate in live online check-ins or Q&A sessions with a Master Teacher Trainer.
• Help Finding Resources:
  While PCO will always make every effort to assist, it is ultimately up to the student to seek out available options for completing apprenticeship hours. Many students around the world have faced this challenge and have found creative solutions by reaching out to local fitness professionals, searching for Pilates communities, or connecting online. If you identify a potential instructor, studio, or alternative arrangement, please present your proposal to PCO for review and approval. Where there’s a will, there’s a way—students who take initiative consistently find ways to meet PCO’s standards and complete their certification.

Contact our support team via the Contact Us form for individualized guidance. We are committed to helping every student, regardless of location, complete their certification successfully and in compliance with PCO standards.

All log sheets, verification forms, and apprenticeship resource materials are available for download in your student account under the Resources tab. You must be logged in to access them.

Workshops or Pilates-related seminars may count toward your apprenticeship hours only if approved by PCO in advance. The workshop must be directly related to Pilates, anatomy, or movement science. Please submit your request for approval before attending, and keep all certificates of attendance for your records.

Yes. For the comprehensive program, a maximum of 20 hours of observation and 40 hours of independent study (only after passing the final course video) may be credited. For Mat or Reformer programs, observation is capped at 10 hours. Practice teaching should always make up the majority of your hours.

If you are struggling to complete your hours within the expected time frame, contact PCO Support for guidance. We can suggest options for accelerating your progress, extending deadlines, or finding local resources. PCO’s goal is to help you succeed!

Your final video test is a comprehensive demonstration of your teaching skills. The video may be up to 75 minutes, with a maximum of 60 minutes for the primary Pilates teaching session. The video must be filmed continuously, with no edits or breaks. Required structure:

1. Student Introduction: State your full name and the facility/city where you are filming.
2. Client Introduction: Share your client’s first name and brief background (any injuries, health concerns, or special needs).
3. Main Teaching Session: Teach a full session, including at least three apparatus (e.g., mat, reformer, chair) and a minimum of 10 advanced exercises.
4. Demonstration of Additional Exercises: Show three advanced exercises using apparatus not included in your main session (e.g., Cadillac, barrels, or specialty equipment).
5. Professionalism: Teach from memory, without notes, manuals, or cue cards. The session should be continuous, with clear cueing, logical sequencing, and hands-on corrections where appropriate.

Once your video is complete and all apprenticeship documentation is gathered, upload the video file to a platform such as Google Drive, Vimeo, Dropbox, or WeTransfer. Email the private video link (set to allow view/download by PCO faculty) along with all your signed log sheets, course completion certificates, instructor proof, and a photo ID in one message to info@PilatesCertificationOnline.com. Double-check that all materials are included, as incomplete submissions may delay your assessment.

Most results are delivered within 10–14 business days of your submission. If additional review or clarification is needed, you will be contacted directly.

All PCO written tests are open book, and using the PCO training manuals is highly recommended. For the video test, you must teach from memory without referring to notes or manuals to ensure authentic, real-world teaching skills.

The final exam video review and certification fee is $195 USD. If you do not pass on your first attempt, you may resubmit for an additional $195 fee. Detailed feedback will be provided, highlighting areas needing improvement. Most students pass on their first or second attempt if they follow the exam rubric, prepare carefully, and practice teaching under supervision. There are no penalties for resubmission—PCO’s focus is on helping you meet the required teaching standard.

Students are allowed up to three (3) retake attempts for each exam level with no additional charge. After the third attempt, a modest re-take fee applies per additional submission. PCO's goal is always to help you achieve success!

If you experience trouble uploading your video or encounter technical difficulties, contact PCO Support. Alternate submission methods (Dropbox, Google Drive, WeTransfer, etc.) are accepted. If your course has expired before your upload, let Support know and we will help restore temporary access or provide manual solutions.

• Review all course materials and the official PCO testing rubric (available in your Resources tab).
• Practice teaching full sessions with a real client, from memory, without notes or manuals.
• Focus on correct exercise sequencing, safety, hands-on cues, and transitions.
• Make sure your client is a real person, not another instructor or a mannequin/dummy.
• Record a test session and self-critique or seek feedback from your supervising instructor.
• Use a well-lit, quiet space, with a stable camera and clear sound. Do not edit your video.
• Submit your log sheets, certificates, and all documentation as described above.

PCO uses a detailed grading rubric, which is available in your student Resources tab and exam packet. Key criteria:

• Instruction: Clear, accurate cueing; correct use of exercise names, spring settings, and safety protocols.
• Teaching: Dynamic client interaction, effective hands-on adjustments, smooth transitions, and logical flow.
• Knowledge: Understanding of anatomy, posture, equipment settings, and exercise goals.
• Professionalism: Session organization, client rapport, and overall teaching confidence.
• Session Completeness: All required apparatus, advanced exercises, and correct session length.

Failure to meet any major criteria will result in actionable feedback and the opportunity to resubmit.

After passing your final exam, you will receive a digital notification and a Course Completion Certificate (PDF). An official printed Pilates Instructor Certificate (with seal) will be mailed to you upon payment of the shipping and handling fee ($25 USA, $35 International). You will also be listed as a certified instructor in the Pilates World Directory.

To request a new or replacement certificate, contact PCO Support. There is a small fee for reprints to cover shipping and materials.

If your course access expired before you completed your test, contact Support. In many cases, we can temporarily restore access so you may complete your exam and download your certificate.

After passing each course (Mat, Reformer, etc.), you receive a digital Course Completion Certificate (printable PDF) as proof of your achievement. When you finish all required courses, hours, and the final exam, you receive the official Pilates Instructor Certification. This certificate is mailed directly from PCO to your address (worldwide shipping is available). Printed certificates cost $25 (US), $35 (international), or $50 for reprints. Digital certificates are always free for download.

All certification documents and log sheets are also available in the Resources tab of your member account. Make sure you are logged in to access and download any required forms.

A Course Completion Certificate shows you have completed a specific program or level (e.g., Mat, Reformer, Cadillac). It is not a license to teach independently, but many employers accept it as proof of specialized training. The Certified Pilates Instructor Certificate is your official, full credential, awarded after completing all program levels, apprenticeship hours, and passing the final exam. This is required for teaching Pilates professionally in most settings, and is recognized for employment, insurance, and continuing education.

Log in to your PCO account and go to Dashboard > Settings. Update your First and Last Name, and ensure the “Display Name Publicly As” field matches your preferred certificate name. Save changes and log out/log in again. If you need a new certificate with your updated name, please contact Support.

Submit a request through Support. There is a $50 fee for official certificate reprints, which covers shipping and materials. Digital reprints are always free and can be downloaded from your Resources tab.

• All apprenticeship hour log sheets, signed by your supervising instructor(s)
• Course Completion Certificates for each required level
• Copy of a valid photo ID
• Supervising instructor’s credentials or proof of certification
• Any additional forms listed in your final exam packet

All documentation should be submitted digitally (PDF or photo scan) along with your final exam video link.

Only one login per account is allowed at a time. If you’re locked out, wait 30 minutes or contact PCO Support for help.

Click “Forgot Your Password?” on the login page. A reset link will be emailed to your registered address. Check spam/junk folders if you don’t receive it.

Check your internet speed and browser. Try clearing cache or using another browser/device. If issues persist, email PCO Support. We recommend Chrome, Firefox, or Safari on a desktop or tablet for the best experience.

Course videos are available during enrollment and until you pass the course test. Access expires for that course after you pass, to maintain certification integrity.

For the best experience, use an up-to-date browser such as Chrome, Firefox, or Safari on a desktop or tablet. Some features may not work correctly on outdated browsers or phones.

If you lose access due to inactivity or technical issues, contact Support. In most cases, we can help restore access so you can complete your certification or download needed documents.

For copyright reasons, videos are only viewable within the PCO platform during your active enrollment. Training manuals and official forms can be downloaded as PDFs from your Resources tab.

The PCO Affiliate Program is a free, international directory that connects Pilates instructors, studios, and mentorship providers with students seeking apprenticeship hours, observation, and hands-on teaching experience. Affiliates may be from Authentic (Classical) or Contemporary Pilates backgrounds.

1. Go to PilatesWorldDirectory.com.
2. Click the “Affiliate” tab or use the “Add Business” button (top right menu).
3. Complete your profile details, including your certification, Pilates style (Authentic or Contemporary), and location.
4. Submit for review. Approved affiliates receive a free Standard Membership and are listed in the global directory.

Any certified Pilates instructor, studio, or mentorship provider may join if they meet industry standards. Affiliates receive increased global visibility, a free Pilates World Directory membership, and the opportunity to support students seeking required teaching hours or mentorship.

No. While many affiliates are PCO graduates, the directory is open to all qualified, certified Pilates professionals worldwide. Each affiliate is responsible for representing their own credentials and must provide documentation upon request. Always verify an instructor’s certification and background before starting any program.

Authentic (Classical) Pilates closely follows Joseph Pilates’ original exercises, techniques, and teaching standards, requiring at least 450 hours of apprenticeship. The Pilates Studio of Los Angeles and PCO offer only Authentic Pilates certification.

Contemporary Pilates incorporates additional exercise science, new technologies, and modern fitness trends. Well-known programs include BASI Pilates and Stott Pilates. Both types are respected, but as Romana and Joe Pilates advised, “learn the original first.” Explore both approaches to find your best fit.

See the Top Pilates Schools page for examples of leading schools and their categories.

Always verify: An instructor’s or business’s certification, teaching experience, and references before committing to any apprenticeship, mentorship, or teaching opportunity. Use the Pilates World Directory and request documentation if needed.

PCO and PWD strongly encourage students to contact multiple affiliates, compare programs, and read reviews to find the best fit for their goals.

No. PCO and PWD only provide the platform for connecting students and affiliates. We do not supervise, guarantee, or endorse any business, affiliate, or service listed in the directory. All arrangements are strictly between the member and the affiliate.

The Affiliate Program helps expand global access to reputable Pilates mentorship, supports high industry standards, and makes it easier for students to complete required apprenticeship hours. By offering a neutral and inclusive directory, PCO and PWD promote authentic Pilates education while supporting a diverse, global Pilates community.

All support and communication with Pilates Certification Online (PCO) is conducted in writing to ensure clarity, accuracy, and a record of your inquiry—especially as we support members in many countries and languages. Written requests allow our support team to translate questions as needed and ensure that any team member can assist you, regardless of time zone or shift.

For the fastest and most secure service, please use our Contact Us form on the website.

• Click here:  Contact Us
• Include your full name, program details, and a clear description of your question or concern.
• Our support team responds within 24–72 hours.

This process ensures your message is tracked and answered promptly by the most appropriate PCO team member.