Pilates exercises are fast becoming the most popular fitness activity of men and women from all walks of life - and they need qualified and trained instructors. The demand for Pilates instructors is growing and Pilates teachers earn more for group classes than any other type of fitness instructor.
Pilates is for everyone. It is the fitness choice of many people including professional dancers, gymnasts, athletes, and our aging population. Pilates exercises improve posture, increased ease of movement, and strengthen your core muscles. Pilates can also improve your mood with breathing techniques and relaxation.
The instructor training program at West Valley College provides you the opportunity to help other people of all ages and ability levels to improve their health and well-being. In addition, you will have a career path into the fitness industry and opportunities for professional growth.
Contact Information
Victoria Piatt
Kinesiology
Head Women's Softball Coach
(408) 741-2004
[email protected]
The Pilates Instructor Certificate of Achievement is designed to provide students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to be successful in the fitness industry as a Pilates instructor. The program prepares students to successfully teach the Pilates methods at a health club, YMCA, fitness center, or privately owned studio.
The goals of this program include preparation for the Pilates Method Alliance national exam and successful employment in the community. Upon completion of the program students are prepared to instruct Pilates mat and reformer classes, Cadillac, Chair and Barrel classes, perform a postural analysis, assess fitness levels, determine readiness for physical exercise, design safe and effective Pilates exercise programs, monitor progress, and adjust training protocols to meet client goals. Students are presented with the skills for training clients in a group setting or one-on-one. Students are introduced to the historical origins of Pilates, contemporary styles of Pilates, and Pilates for special populations. The comprehensive program includes instruction in the mat exercise series along with Reformer, Cadillac, Chair and Barrels training. Additional topics include fitness assessment, postural analysis, exercise technique, program design, nutrition, behavioral coaching, and client relations.
The approximate cost of the program: $700.00 for tuition, fees, textbooks, and materials. In-district students are eligible for free college. Non-district students are still eligible for free tuition and financial resources – via the Viking promise grant.
Instructors
Vicky Galindo-Piatt has 15 years of Pilates experience. She is a certified instructor who started her journey with Stott and has continued her education through obtaining multiple CEU's. She is a West Valley College alumnus and a UC Berkeley Graduate. She has her Masters in Coaching and Administration from Concordia University-Irvine, and a Sports Psychology Certificate through Cal Southern University. She is currently the head softball coach, lead Pilates instructor and fulltime Kinesiology Faculty member. She played professional softball for the Chicago Bandits for 10 years and was a member of the USA softball team from 2004-2009. She made her Olympic debut in 2008 and earned a Silver Medal at the Beijing Olympic games.
Mary Ann Smith is a kinesiology instructor and Older Adult Physical Fitness Instructor at West Valley College. She has been teaching group fitness classes for over 30+years. She is a STOTT Trained instructor and teaches Non-Credit courses at WVC.
Paul Starks is a kinesiology instructor. He has 20+ years of experience as the Head Athletic Trainer and Instructor at WVC. He is a certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), a Certified Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT), and a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) by the National Athletic Trainers' Association. He is also a Licensed Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA). He has an AA in Liberal Arts, a BS in Kinesiology from California Polytechnic State University, and a MA in Human Performance from San Jose State University.