Frequently Asked Questions

  • You can certify in:

    • Mat Only

    • Reformer Only

    • Mat and Reformer

    • Comprehensive (all equipment)

    Each track requires course completion, logged hours, and passing a final test-out.

  • No advanced skills are required—just curiosity and enthusiasm. A year of movement or teaching experience helps, but anyone with a background in yoga, dance, or fitness is ready to begin.

    All courses start with Movement Principles, which lays the foundation for the rest of your training. This course is unique to Balanced Body and is mandatory regardless of your previous experience.

  • Movement Principles is the foundation of all Balanced Body training and required before Mat or Reformer courses. It builds skills in movement analysis, biomechanics, and cueing, providing a framework for understanding the Pilates system. It introduces Pre-Pilates exercises that prepare the body for further coursework and support special populations such as rehabilitation, active aging, osteoporosis, and pregnancy.

  • Between modules, you’ll complete observation, personal practice, and practice teaching hours.

    • Observation: Watch live or recorded classes.

    • Practice Teaching: Teach peers, friends, or clients.

    • Personal Practice: Attend live classes or practice solo.
      We can help you find space to practice, and Pilates Anytime is a great resource. You’ll also be added to our student WhatsApp group for support and connection.

  • Yes. You’ll need to fill out a form and receive personalized recommendations on which courses are required to meet certification standards. Contact us for more information.

  • Complete Level 1 before Level 2, and Level 2 before Level 3. You can start with either the Mat or Reformer pathway, but Movement Principles always comes first.

  • All courses are offered in studio at Lauren Brandt Pilates INC, 202-560 Johnson Street, Victoria BC, in Market Square, downtown. Most courses are also available online, except for Reformer 3, Anatomy in Three Dimensions, and all Apparatus courses (Chair, Barrel, Cadillac), which are in-studio only. Online courses are live and fully interactive via Zoom.

  • This depends on your goals and schedule. Some students choose to complete all their Mat courses before taking Reformer, then add Comprehensive courses. Others start with Movement Principles, then Mat 1, Reformer 1, and Apparatus 1 before moving on to Level 2 courses.

  • After completing your courses and hours, you’ll schedule your Test Out, which includes written, practical, and teaching components to demonstrate your understanding of the Pilates system.

  • Both options deliver the same high-quality content. Online students enjoy flexibility and connection through live Zoom sessions, while in-person learners benefit from the energy of the room and hands-on feedback. You can mix and match formats.

  • Many students take a Saturday morning ferry or flight into Victoria, stay one night, and head home Sunday evening. Contact me for a list of local recommendations for accommodations, dining, and other conveniences.

  • Complete Level 1 before Level 2, and Level 2 before Level 3. You can start with either the Mat or Reformer pathway, but Movement Principles always comes first.

  • You’ll need a Reformer for Reformer training. Some studios rent out Reformers for weekends. We can help connect you with local options.

  • There’s no deadline. You can progress at your own pace. New cycles start each January, spring/summer, and September.

  • You can begin as a student teacher after your first course. While not yet certified, you can log hours and gain experience by offering practice sessions.

  • Some providers offer student coverage after Movement Principles. If you’re already insured under another modality, you may be able to add Pilates. Each course provides a certificate that can assist with applications.

  • Starting January 2026, all pricing will be in Canadian dollars. Registration happens directly through my website.

  • Anatomy is recommended for Mat certification and required for Reformer and Apparatus. Anatomy in Three Dimensions provides a hands-on way to learn anatomy. Prior anatomy coursework may count toward this requirement. Contact us to learn more.

  • Register directly through my website under the relevant course listing. Once registered, you’ll receive confirmation and course materials.

  • Each course requires the purchase of Balanced Body manuals and online reference videos at an additional charge. These high-quality materials include detailed exercise breakdowns, cueing strategies, teaching tips, and space for your notes, plus lifetime access to videos so you can review and refine anytime.

    As an added bonus, all students in my courses receive free access to exclusive study guides—a powerful resource to help you reinforce learning, strengthen exercise recall, and prepare confidently for your test-out.

  • Movement Principles:

    Pilates mat

    Foam roller (full length)

    Pilates ball (8–10 inches)

    Theraband (preferably 6 feet long)

    Rolled-up hand towel or large car sponge

    Device with working camera (camera must remain on for the entire class)

    Mat Courses:

    Pilates mat

    Pilates ball (8–10 inches)

    Rolled-up hand towel or large car sponge

    Device with working camera (camera must remain on for the entire class)

    Reformer Courses:

    Reformer for the duration of the course

    Pilates ball (8–10 inches)

    Rolled-up hand towel or large car sponge

    Device with working camera (camera must remain on for the entire class)

    Sitting box

    Jumpboard

  • To make the most of your online learning experience:

    • Wear light-coloured clothing so your instructor can clearly see your movement.

    • Join the Zoom meeting 10 minutes early to check your connection and troubleshoot any technical issues.

    • Keep your camera on throughout the session for live feedback and engagement.

    • Set up in a well-lit space with enough room to move freely and be seen clearly.

    • Use a laptop or tablet for the best experience (smartphones are not ideal).

    • Download Zoom and test your audio and video in advance. You can sign up or log in here: Zoom Signup.

    • Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing you can move in—and that you don’t mind getting a little clay on.

    • Manuals: Bring your course manual. If you registered late, a printed manual will be provided at the studio.

    • Studio Location: 202-560 Johnson St, Victoria BC V8W3C6

    • Parking: Street parking is available nearby but may be limited to 2 hours. Parkades are nearby, or use the free bike valet on Pandora St.

    • Food & Drink: We’re close to coffee shops and restaurants. Please bring a reusable water bottle and coffee mug to reduce waste. A water cooler is available in the studio.

  • Yes. Balanced Body offers advanced and specialty workshops, including programs for Advanced Movement Principles, rehabilitation, pre/postnatal, and active aging.

  • If you need to miss a portion due to illness or travel, make-up options are available through observation or a private tutorial with your educator.

  • Yes. Private courses are available depending on availability and are subject to an additional cost. Contact us to find out more.