Are you dreaming of a career in Pilates? Maybe you're wondering about typical hours and salary, or just wondering – how do I become a Pilates instructor? I've been there! I left a busy law career to become a full-time Pilates instructor at Premium Pilates and Fitness (PPF).

Let me show you the typical working hours of a Pilates instructor. I'll share a glimpse of my day as an instructor and give you an idea of this rewarding, community-focused job. Plus– I'll give you some insights on Pilates teaching positions and the possible salary for instructors.

What Influences a Pilates Instructor's Hours?

Just like any role, the hours you work as a Pilates instructor will depend on a few key factors. Whether you’re eyeing Pilates teacher jobs or exploring this as a side gig, here’s what shapes your schedule:

• Training & Experience: New instructors may begin with fewer classes as they learn to teach. While experienced teachers usually take on more classes. To learn how to become a Pilates teacher, check out PPF’s Pilates Certification Courses!
• Part-Time vs. Full-Time: Some instructors find part-time hours work well with other commitments, while others dive into full-time teaching.
• Workplace Vibes: Teaching at a gym may mean fewer Pilates classes on the schedule. A dedicated studio like PPF offers more classes to teach.
• Flexibility: Picking up casual classes, covering for other instructors can spice up your week (and increase your hours).
• Beyond Teaching: There could be additional admin and other career opportunities available, especially when working for smaller Pilates studios.
• Career options: Taking more training can help you. For example, you could take an extra Pilates Instructor course or ballet barre instructor training. This gives you more class options. It also makes you more attractive to employers!
• Class Prep: Be sure to allow some time to plan your classes.

Here’s a quick breakdown of average hours:

• Part-time: 10 to 20 hours per week– perfect if you’re balancing another job or family.
• Full-time: 20 to 40 hours per week– depending on your goals and energy.
• Studio Owners: If you run your own space, expect longer hours to manage the business side too.

The Pilates instructors pay can vary. On average, it is about $30 to $40 per hour. However, the best part is the work-life balance that Pilates offers. A Pilates teacher salary can climb with extra training or experience, which makes this career both rewarding and sustainable!

A Day in my Life- Pilates Style

I’m a full-time instructor at PPF, and my week averages about 25 hours. Here’s how it breaks down:

• 20 hours: Teaching classes – my favourite part!
• 2 hours: Planning sessions, tweaking flows and curating the perfect playlist.
• 2 hours: Admin tasks (optional but rewarding)
• 1 hour: Filming for PPF’s online studio to bring Pilates to our virtual community. You can find my online pilates classes here!

I have also started teacher training and blogging, (like this piece!). It adds more to my week, but I do it because I love it. You don’t need extras like these; plenty of instructors thrive with just teaching and stacking more classes instead.

My schedule runs Monday to Thursday, giving me long weekends unless we’re hosting a weekend instructor training course. Mornings are my sweet spot, and Monday’s my busiest day. Here’s how it goes:

• 4:00am: I’m a morning person (most days!). Unless I hit the snooze, I’m up for breakfast– usually something quick like coffee and a toastie.
• 5:10am: I arrive at the studio- get the props, set the lights, and cue the music– then I welcome my first clients.
• 5:30am: Clients have arrived and my first class kicks off. I teach six sessions, with 15-minute breaks to stretch, sip water, and relax.
• 11:15am: Classes wrap up. After a good chat, I say goodbye to my clients (they're the best!), I tidy the studio, and head home.
• 11:45am: Home sweet home! The rest of my day is for lunch, a nap, planning, or whatever life needs–way better than my old 9-5 slog.

Why I Love This Life (And You Might Too)

Switching to a career in Pilates was originally about balance, but I found purpose and community. Teaching Pilates is giving people in an hour of self-care. Yes, there are early starts and some prep, but the rewards? Helping clients feel stronger, connecting with an awesome community, and having time for you.

💡 Tips for Aspiring Instructors

• Start small: Try part-time teaching to test the waters.
• Connect: Join a community like PPF– We’re here to help! (Check out our FAQs)
• Plan Ahead: Block out prep time so your classes are fun and flowy.
• Level Up: Extra training can boost your hours –and your Pilates instructor wage– over time. (A Pilates teacher salary is competitive, especially if you build experience or specialise)

So how many hours do Pilates instructors work? The limit does not exist– you can choose between 1 to 40+ hours, based on your dreams and lifestyle. For me, 25 hours feels just right, leaving space for life beyond the studio.

Want to dive deeper into the average salary of a Pilates instructor or how to become a Pilates instructor? Check out our blogs How Much do Pilates Instructors Earn, and How to Become a Pilates Instructor In Brisbane: Your Ultimate Guide.

Ready to explore Pilates instructor training? Now is a great time to look for Pilates teacher jobs in Brisbane. Join PPF and learn how to become a Pilates certified instructor! ✨