The Functional Reformer Method
The Functional Reformer Method Instructor Training is a physiotherapist-designed course that takes a functional, science-based approach to Reformer Pilates.
Rooted in anatomical understanding, biomechanics, and sports science principles, this program goes beyond traditional Pilates, equipping instructors with the skills to apply evidence-based movement strategies for strength, mobility and injury prevention.
Whether you're looking to deepen your knowledge or begin a career in Reformer instruction, this course provides a practical, research-backed framework to confidently teach and adapt sessions for a wide range of clients.
Who is this course for?
Health Professionals
Designed for physiotherapists, osteopaths and the like, seeking to expand their clinical exercise and rehabilitation toolkit. This course supports the application of Reformer-based exercise using sound biomechanics, clinical reasoning and injury prevention principles.
Career Transitioners
Suited to individuals planning a career change into the movement and wellness sector who are seeking a comprehensive, professional training pathway rather than a short or surface-level qualification.
Fitness Professionals
Ideal for personal trainers, group fitness instructors and Pilates teachers looking to deepen their technical knowledge and expand their wellness offering with a clinically informed, Reformer-focused approach.
Professionals seeking depth
For those who value evidence-informed practice, biomechanics, and intelligent exercise programming, and want to teach with confidence, credibility and long-term impact.
Why choose this course?
The programme delivers comprehensive course material crafted by an experienced physiotherapist and fitness trainer, ensuring a strong integration of clinical insight with real-world teaching practice. Significant time is dedicated to anatomy, exercise physiology, biomechanics and sport science principles, providing a solid foundation for safe and effective Reformer-based programming.
A key focus of the course is injury prevention; understanding how and why injuries occur, and how intelligent exercise selection, cueing and progression can reduce risk while improving long-term outcomes.
Graduates develop the skills to assess movement, apply biomechanical principles and teach with intention. You’ll leave equipped to work confidently with a wide range of bodies.
Course Structure
This comprehensive training programme delivers an expertly crafted blend of learning, combining in-depth theory with extensive practical application. Graduates complete the course with a Reformer Fitness Instructor qualification, equipping them with the skills, knowledge and confidence to teach safely and effectively in professional settings.
The programme is audited and approved by Pilates Aotearoa, ensuring the training meets recognised industry standards and supports high-quality instruction.
This balanced structure ensures graduates leave with both the technical understanding and practical teaching experience required to teach with clarity, confidence and care.
Our next intake will take place Saturday 25 April - Monday 27 April 2026
at Āhua Studio in Cambridge.
Theory & Foundational Knowledge - 20+ hours
Develop a strong understanding of the principles that underpin safe, effective and intelligent Reformer Pilates programming.
History and development of the Pilates Method
Human anatomy applied to the Functional Reformer Method
Exercise physiology applied to the Functional Reformer Method
Pre-exercise screening and client readiness
Health, safety and welfare in a Pilates setting
This includes 20+ hours of online lectures and self-directed study to be completed prior to the in-person, practical sessions.
Practical Application & Teaching Practice - 3 full days
Build hands-on skill, confidence, and teaching competence through guided practice and real-world application.
Functional Reformer Method repertoire, including foundational variations
Safe and effective use of the reformer, with progressions and regressions
Planning and designing functional Reformer Pilates sessions
Teaching, adapting, modifying and progressing reformer-based exercises
Self-practice, teaching practice and observation hours
The in person teaching will take place in the studio over 3 days.
Reformer Pilates Instructor Training
$1,999 per person
Your course fee includes everything you need to complete the training with confidence:
Comprehensive Reformer Fitness Instructor qualification
400-page detailed course manual
Structured online learning sessions
3-day face-to-face, in-studio training at Āhua Studio
Assessment, practical teaching hours and course support
90-minute practical assessment with Elise (included in the course fee when completed within 18 months of commencing the programme)
Optional Add-On: Mentoring Programme
$500
Extend your learning and confidence beyond the training with:
Monthly mentoring sessions for 6 months
Ongoing guidance, feedback and professional support
Support transitioning from training into confident teaching
About Elise Badger
Lead Physiotherapist, Method Developer & Educator
Elise Badger is a physiotherapist, studio owner and Pilates instructor with over 15 years of experience in clinical practice and movement education.
After years of supporting injury rehabilitation, Elise became passionate about preventing injury through intelligent, well-designed exercise. Her work focuses on using the reformer as a functional tool to build strength, control and resilience.
As Course Director, Elise brings a clinician’s perspective and a practical teaching approach to instructor education, developing confident, thoughtful instructors who understand why they teach what they teach.
Trusted by graduates. Endorsed by experts.
"I thoroughly enjoyed the Functional Reformer Method Training Course. Going in, I was very new, but the practical learning and anatomy sessions were fantastic. Elise is an incredible, hands-on teacher who is realistic and relatable, boosting our confidence every step of the way.
The course emphasis on hybrid training, which blends reformer and functional methods, is a key takeaway. I highly recommend this comprehensive course and its expert teacher/physiotherapist and mentor."
Rakshita Gullery
2025 Graduate
"The Functional Reformer Method Instructor Training course was an in-depth course which was the perfect balance between theory and practical. Being designed and facilitated by a physiotherapist, Elise, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise. I would highly recommend this course to those wanting to deepen their Reformer knowledge, gaining skills to confidently teach and adapt sessions for a wide range of clients."
Philippa Dove
2025 Graduate
"This is certainly an impressive piece of work, and sets a formidable standard, it could stand alone as an anatomy and physiology course."
Jenny
Pilates Aotearoa
Frequently asked questions
Are there any prerequisites?
No prior qualifications are required. This course is designed to build strong foundational knowledge from the ground up, while also expanding on any existing experience or professional background you may already have. Whether you’re new to the movement space or bringing prior knowledge with you, the programme is structured to meet you where you’re at and support progressive learning throughout the course.
I don't have a clue about anatomy. Help!
We take a ground zero approach, assuming no prior knowledge and take you right through all you need to know from the basics.
Do I need to own a reformer?
We provide the reformers for the in-studio training days. it is helpful to have access to a reformer for you self-directed learning.
How long does the training take?
The training is designed to be completed flexibly, with a significant portion delivered through self-directed learning to allow you to progress at a pace that suits your schedule. In addition to the in-studio training, you’ll complete online learning, self-practice, and teaching hours.
The course includes a 90-minute practical assessment with Elise, which is covered in the course fee when completed within 18 months of commencing the programme. This structure allows sufficient time to consolidate learning, gain confidence, and demonstrate competence without unnecessary time pressure.
Is this course nationally recognised?
Yes. This training programme is audited and approved by Pilates Aotearoa, New Zealand’s recognised professional body for Pilates education. This approval confirms the course meets national industry standards for quality, scope and instructor training.
What qualification will I receive?
Upon successful completion of the programme, you will receive a Reformer Fitness Instructor qualification, recognising your training in safe, effective and professionally informed Reformer-based instruction.
When and where is the course held?
The next intake will run from Saturday 25 April – Monday 27 April 2026 at Āhua Studio in Cambridge, alongside structured self-directed learning completed in your own time.
Ready to begin?
Join a Reformer Pilates training designed to give you the knowledge, experience and confidence to teach with purpose. Spaces are limited so apply today.
Our next intake will take place Saturday 25 April - Monday 27 April 2026 at Āhua Studio in Cambridge.
