The Whitney Johnson Pilates™

Apprenticeship Program

A 700 Hr. Comprehensive Teacher Training Program in the Classical Method

The 2024 Program is in full swing! Please check back in for updates on the 2025 Program.

Registration for the 2024 program closes July 2024 | Program begins August 2024
limited space available

Backbend on the Pilates Reformer as part of the Whitney Johnson Pilates Apprenticeship Program - a comprehensive certification in the classical Pilates method. Reformer Pilates Classes in Ann Arbor, Michigan

The Whitney Johnson Pilates™ Apprenticeship Program is 700 hours of personalized comprehensive teacher training designed to prepare apprentices to successfully teach the traditional Pilates Method as created by Joseph Pilates. This is a rigorous program committed to preserving the integrity of the traditional Pilates Method as it was passed down from multiple second generation instructors of Romana’s lineage as well as first generation Pilates instructor, Jay Grimes, and his students. But what does that mean? Simply put, the WJP Apprenticeship Program teaches Joe’s exercises in Joe’s order on Joe’s apparatus.

Learn to teach in the comprehensive classical pilates certification program. Classical Pilates in Ann Arbor, Michigan

This is a true apprenticeship experience with personal attention and direct mentorship. Each apprentice will work one on one with second generation instructor, Whitney Johnson, to learn the material at their own pace, working on exactly what they need, when they need it. Apprentices will become third generation Pilates teachers trained on all major Pilates apparatus as well as the smaller accessories designed by Joe not typically included in most comprehensive programs.

Strengthening the arms, back, and core, using the Pilates Reformer by Gratz Pilates. Reformer Pilates Ann Arbor, Michigan.
The Pilates Cadillac by Gratz Pilates is an excellent place to build core strength and flexibility. Tower Pilates in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Build core strength and flexibility on the Pilates Reformer by Gratz Pilates. The classical Pilates method is proven to develop stretch, strength, and control. Reformer Pilates Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Stretching the back on the classical Pilates Electric Chair by Gratz Pilates. Classical Pilates in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Prenatal workout on the classical Pilates Reformer by Gratz Pilates, proving that pilates is for every body. Reformer Pilates Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Side Splits on the classical Pilates Reformer by Gratz Pilates. Using this exercise to develop strength and control as well as flexibility. Reformer Pilates Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Prerequisites.

First and foremost, due to the rigorous nature of the program, applicants will be expected to have a consistent pre-existing Pilates practice. The practice of other movement modalities will not be accepted as comparable experience. This program is not designed to be your first exposure to the Foundational/Intermediate Pilates exercises, but rather to refine and harness your practice in preparation for teaching the method. Applicants should have taken at least 20 Private session at WJP or with an approved teacher prior to applying (contact Whitney to see if your current session hours qualify).

Additionally, applicants will need to do the following:

  • Obtain medical clearance for exercise

  • Submit Program Application

  • Schedule and complete a 90 minute Exercise Assessment and Discussion with Whitney Johnson - $175 (deducted from cost of tuition if approved, approval for enrollment is not guaranteed)

Program Breakdown

  • 4 System Workshops

    (60 hours)

    Each Workshop will be devoted to one specific level in the system: Foundational, Intermediate I, Intermediate II, and Advanced. Time will be spent learning the exercises, teaching tools, and anatomy of movement.

  • Self Practice

    (200 hours)

    This is time to practice the method and get it into your body. This includes the 24 hours of required Private Sessions and 24 hours of required Apparatus Classes (covered by the Mandatory Training Package) .

  • Observation

    (200 hours)

    It is important to observe seasoned instructors apply the method as a system to real bodies in real time. Can apply for consideration to approve the observation of other instructors outside the studio.

  • Practice Teaching

    (200 hours)

    There is no better way to learn than to do! Apprentices will be required to start practice teaching once they have completed their Foundational System Workshop to gain experience working with as many different bodies as possible.

  • 4 System Exams

    (8 hours)

    Each System Exam will include both a practical teaching component as well as a written exam based on the required reading. All exams and hours must be complete prior to qualifying for certification.

  • Required Reading & Homework

    (32 hours)

    Apprentices will be assigned required reading and homework prior to each System Workshop. T his will focus on Pilates History, Anatomy, and Current Issues in the Pilates Community.

What you’ll learn…

  • The exercises and common modifications/variations.

  • How to apply the Pilates method as a system.

  • How to harness the method to address body-specific needs with the ultimate goal of bringing the body back into balance.

  • How to work with and address multiple body types, needs, injuries, and conditions.

  • Basic Pilates history and current issues within the Pilates community.

  • How to teach on all Pilates apparatus you’ll find in a fully equipped studio: The Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, High Chair (Electric Chair), Arm Chair, Spine Corrector/Small Barrel, Ladder Barrel, Guillotine, Ped-o-Pul, Magic Circle, Wall, Hand Weights, Toe Corrector, Neck Stretcher, Foot Corrector, Breath-a-cizer, Sand Bag (Bean Bag Roll Up Device), Push Up Device.

Schedule.

Developing two way stretch with hands on cuing during the Roll Up on the Pilates Mat. This exercise is good for developing core strength and stretching the back.

FOUNDATIONAL SYSTEM WORKSHOP

TDB 2025

Helping to deepen the stretch with hands-on cuing during the Short Spine Massage on the class Pilates Reformer by Gratz Pilates. This is an excellent exercise to develop core strength, stretch the legs, and massage the back.

INTERMEDIATE I SYSTEM WORKSHOP

TBD 2025

Classical Pilates isn't just for stretching! Develop upper body strength using the classical Pilates Cadillac by doing exercises such as the Hanging Pulls Ups.

INTERMEDIATE II SYSTEM WORKSHOP

TBD 2026

Strengthen and Stretch the upper back with Classical Pilates! The breaststroke on the classical Pilates Reformer by Gratz Pilates is a strong exercise that takes strength, flexility, and control.

TBD 2026

ADVANCED SYSTEM WORKSHOP

Final Test Out System Exam to be completed no later than February 2025

The 2024 Program is in full swing! Please check back in for updates on the 2025 schedule.

primary training costs.*

TUITION
$5400

MANDATORY TRAINING PACKAGE:
$2856

Contact for Bridge Pricing and Payment Plan Information

*Pricing includes the WJP Apprenticeship Program Training Manual and all required hours such as workshop weekends, private sessions, apparatus classes, and exams. It does not include the additional required reading materials or liability insurance (estimated at $250).

More or less expensive than you expected? We like to show you all the required fees upfront, so there are no surprises or unforeseen additional fees.