Fletcher Pilates Director Kyria Sabin was featured on the National Pilates Certification Program (NPCP) website discussing tips for choosing a Pilates school in the article:
Kyria Sabin’s Path to Pilates and Tips for Choosing a School
In this contribution, Kyria shares her personal journey into Pilates and offers professional guidance for those considering Pilates teacher education and national certification.
From Student to Lineage Steward
Kyria’s introduction to Pilates began at the Los Angeles studio of Ron Fletcher, where what started as personal practice evolved into apprenticeship and mentorship.
At a time when formal Pilates teacher training programs were limited — and before widespread global education models existed — Kyria trained directly under one of the first-generation teachers of the method. Her path reflects a direct lineage transmission: Joseph Pilates to Ron Fletcher to Kyria Sabin.
This depth of mentorship continues to inform her approach to Pilates education today.
Choosing a Pilates School: Professional Considerations
With hundreds of Pilates certification programs now available worldwide, Kyria emphasizes that convenience alone should not determine educational choice. Instead, she encourages prospective teachers to begin as students and evaluate schools through direct experience.
Key recommendations include:
1. Begin as a Client or Student
Before enrolling in a Pilates teacher training program:
- Take private sessions and group classes from multiple lineages
- Evaluate clarity of cueing and instructional depth
- Notice whether the teaching fosters both physical and intellectual engagement
- Assess studio culture, professionalism, and mentorship quality
A strong Pilates education begins with embodied experience.
2. Define Your Professional Goals
Kyria encourages clarity regarding long-term vision:
- Who do you intend to serve? (athletes, dancers, rehabilitation clients, general fitness populations)
- Will you work in a clinical, corporate, boutique studio, or independent setting?
- Do you envision teaching private sessions, group classes, or both?
- Is studio ownership part of your career path?
Specific goals support more strategic educational selection.
3. Evaluate Curriculum Structure
Prospective teachers should review:
- Whether the program is modular or comprehensive
- Total educational hours (minimum 450 hours recommended)
- Distribution of contact hours, observation, self-practice, and casework
- Mentorship and continuing education offerings
- Faculty accessibility and graduate outcomes
Educational depth, faculty experience, and alumni success are critical indicators of program quality.
National Certification Matters
Kyria underscores the importance of verifying that a comprehensive Pilates program meets eligibility requirements to sit for the national exam through the National Pilates Certification Program.
A minimum of 450 hours of education is required before candidates may take the NPCP National Certification Exam. Graduation from a Pilates school confers a diploma or certificate; passing the national exam confers the credential of Certified Pilates Teacher.
For aspiring professionals, national certification strengthens credibility, supports industry standards, and demonstrates commitment to ongoing continuing education.
A Structured Path Forward
In the article, Kyria outlines a clear progression for future teachers:
- Begin as a client/student
- Research and compare programs thoroughly
- Complete a 450+ hour comprehensive curriculum
- Sit for the NPCP National Certification Exam
- Launch your career as a Certified Pilates Teacher
Her closing message reflects the professional responsibility inherent in teaching movement: the industry benefits from passionate, well-educated, and thoughtfully trained Pilates professionals.
Read the Full Article
We are proud of Kyria Sabin’s continued leadership within the broader Pilates community and her service to national professional standards.
Read the full article on the National Pilates Certification Program website: