Pre & Postnatal Pilates Instructor Training

A collaborative, evidence-based pre & postnatal Pilates training, taught by experts: a women’s health physiotherapist and Pilates educator.

Become a certified pre & postnatal Pilates instructor

We built this course so that Pilates instructors provide a better standard of care for pre and postnatal clients.

This face-to-face course is for qualified Pilates instructors and allied health professionals who want to upskill and deepen their understanding of working with pregnant and postnatal clients.

Building on the tools you already have as an instructor, our goal is to strengthen your understanding of why and how to modify classes, so you can teach with confidence and clarity.

Key features of the course

  • One-day intensive

    Face-to-face (not self-directed or online). One full day for immersive, hands-on learning. Small group max 15 participants.

  • Practical learning

    Backed by theory course components, the focus is on practical in-studio experience, primarily using reformers.

  • Expert teachers

    Led in-person by two expert educators; a women’s health physiotherapist & Pilates teacher trainer.

  • Evidence-based

    Learn the most up-to-date research and de-bunk myths around pre and postnatal exercise. Pre-course readings and research articles are included to enhance your learning.

What you’ll learn

  • Learn how the body adapts to pregnancy and recovers after childbirth, including hormonal influences, and common misconceptions around pregnancy and exercise.

    Learn:

    • Hormonal changes

    • Pelvic floor anatomy and function

    • Musculoskeletal system

    • DRAM

    • Red flags and precautions

    • The importance of exercise

    • Debunk myths around previously taught β€œpregnancy rules”

  • Apply the theory you have learnt, into the studio. We will be workshopping exercises and modifications for prenatal exercise.

    Learn:

    • How to modify exercises appropriately

    • Recognise normal responses Vs red flags

    • Challenge outdated fear-based rules

    • modifications for common conditions

      • Pelvic girdle pain

      • Sciatica

      • DRAM

      • Carpal tunnel

      • Pelvic floor dysfunction

    • Progressions and regressions

    • How to include prenatal clients into a group class

  • Starting with further postnatal theory, including signs and symptoms, we will apply this knowledge in the studio, across different stages of postnatal recovery.

    Learn:

    • Importance of early abdominal muscle activation

    • Pelvic floor signs and symptoms

    • Modifications for prolapse, weakness or overactive pelvic floor

    • 0-6 weeks exercise planning

    • 6-12 weeks class planning

    • 3 months+ returning to sport

    • Load management

  • Apply your learning through studio-based case studies, collaborating in small groups to develop practical programs and class plans.

  • Discussion about the importance of teaching with empowering language.

    Learn:

    • Non-fear-based language

    • Discussion of mental health issues

    • The importance of exercise for both physical and mental health

  • Practical advice for working with pregnant women and running mums & bubs classes.

    Learn:

    • Participant screening

    • Scope of practice

    • Referrals

    • Class set up

    • Inclusivity

The details

  • UPCOMING COURSE DATES

    • 2026 August 8th

    • 2027 January 30th

    • 2027 August 21st

    TIME

    • 9:00am–4:30pm

  • $650 AUD

    • Pre-course reading

    • A comprehensive workbook

    • 1-day face-to-face intensive

    • Reformer-focused practical training

    • Small group learning (max 15 participants)

    • 2 expert instructors

    • Certificate of completion: Certified Pre & Postnatal Pilates Instructor

  • Hatched House

    127-129 Church St. Hawthorn Vic

  • This course is designed for health professionals and qualified Pilates instructors:

    • AHPRA-registered Physiotherapists or Osteopaths

    • Fully qualified Pilates instructors

Why choose us?

Run by women’s health physiotherapist, Rosie Purdue and Pilates expert, Alicia Visini; we created this course because we kept meeting clinicians and Pilates instructors who wanted to support pregnant and postnatal clients but often felt unsure how to do this. We wanted to create a collaborative evidence-based approach that respects both professional scope and studio realities.

About Rosie

I am a women’s health physiotherapist, clinical Pilates instructor and a mum. I hold post-graduate qualifications in both Pelvic Floor & Continence Physiotherapy and Sports Medicine, a combination held by very few physiotherapists in Australia.

As the owner of Hatched House, a specialised women’s health clinic in Hawthorn, Victoria, I work closely with women across all life stages; supporting them through pregnancy, postnatal recovery, motherhood, perimenopause and beyond.

Alongside my clinical work, I am actively involved in education and professional development, for both clients and health professionals. I am also a public speaker and have presented at national conferences on the topic of returning to exercise after having a baby.

About Alicia

I’m a Pilates instructor, educator, and studio owner with over a decade of experience. I’ve taught in a variety of studio settings, working with clients of all ages and abilities, including extensive experience in pre and postnatal Pilates.

As the owner of Salt Pilates Studio in Balaclava, I focus on helping clients move with awareness and intention, creating a supportive, empowering class experience. Alongside my studio work, I am passionate about mentoring instructors to build confidence, adaptability, and clarity in their teaching.

  • "Alicia is incredible at what she does. Not only is she warm and supportive, but her years of experience as both a Pilates Instructor and educator are evident. She has helped clear up any confusion and fear I had around teaching pre and postnatal clients, and I now feel confident and empowered to put my skills into practice."

    Tash

  • "Rosie's presentation and knowledge in the area was very engaging and enlightening. Showed good examples of how to utilise within an Allied Health space""

    Emma

  • "The knowledge and support that Alicia has shared with me, both through her mentorship and programs, have given me greater confidence in my teaching and helping clients on their Pilates journey."

    Sarah

  • β€œThanks again for a fantastic weekend. We really enjoyed it and took so much out of the course. You are made for the role and such a good facilitator. 11 out of 10!"

    Lauren

Frequently asked questions

  • 1) Click the Enrol Now button

    2) Pre & Postnatal Pilates Instructor Training and scroll the calendar to the DATE of the course you want.

    3) Sign up and pay

    4) Once we have received your payment, you will get a course confirmation email with the enrolment form and paid receipt.

  • Prior to the face-to-face course, participants will receive a series of pre-reading PDF resources, including selected peer-reviewed journal articles relevant to pregnancy, postnatal exercise, and Pilates-based movement.

  • No. This course does not include internal or external pelvic floor, or abdominal wall DRAM diagnosis.

  • Yes, provided you are a fully qualified Pilates instructor.

  • Yes. This course is designed for health professionals who are already qualified to teach Pilates and qualified Pilates Instructors. Example: AHPRA-registered Physiotherapists or Osteopaths and fully qualified Pilates instructors.

  • Yes. If course is full, you can absolutely go on a waitlist. We can then let you know if a spot becomes available via email.

    To go on the waitlist please email either hello@saltpilatesstudio.com.au or hello@hatchedhouse.com.au

    with your name, email, mobile and preferred date to attend the course. 

  • Due to limited course numbers, no refunds are provided for participant cancellations or change of mind.

    If you are unable to attend, we require a minimum of 7 days notice in writing prior to your course start date. Your payment will then be held as a credit on your account and may be transferred to the next available Pre & Postnatal Pilates Instructor Training course, subject to availability. Credits are valid for 12 months from the original course date.

    Cancellations made less than 7 days before the course start date will result in your course fee being forfeited.

  • Here is a copy of our course Terms & Conditions. You can read our Privacy Policy Here.

  • LOCATION

    Hawthorn is right on the cusp of inner Melbourne and the β€˜Burbs. There is a tram stop right out the front that takes you straight into the city.

    ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

    We recommend looking at Amora - this hotel is walking distance to the clinic/studio. There are also some (limited) local options on Airbnb.

    CAFES

    Barton Milkbar is our favourite local cafe if you want to buy lunch or coffee during the lunch break.

Feel informed and confident to teach pregnant clients and new mums

This course is only being held twice a year, so be quick to book your spot before it sells out.