Bringing ITTAP to the World: A Milestone at the PMA Phoenix Rising Conference in China

The Pilates Method Alliance took a significant step forward in promoting global standards for Pilates

education at the recent PMA Phoenix Rising Conference in China. This event marked the first time the

International Teacher Trainer Accreditation for Pilates (ITTAP) program was introduced to an international

audience outside the United States. The introduction of ITTAP at such a high-profile event signals the

PMA’s commitment to fostering educational excellence and unifying Pilates teaching standards

worldwide.

A Historic Moment for the ITTAP Program

The round table discussion at the PMA Phoenix Rising was an unforgettable highlight, with the room filled

to capacity - a clear indication of the worldwide interest in the ITTAP initiative. Stella Hull-Lampkin, PMA

Board President, and Patricia Stevenson, PMA Board Secretary, led the discussion, supported by Bin

Mou, Cloe Sommadossi, Roger Mao and Petros Kouroupakis, PMA Board Directors. The energy in the

room was palpable, as Pilates educators and training program directors gathered to learn more about the

newly launched accreditation process.

Stella and Patricia eloquently introduced the ITTAP program, emphasizing its mission to set global

standards for Pilates teacher training. They highlighted how the program was developed with input from

industry leaders, aiming to simplify the accreditation process while ensuring inclusivity and quality. The

PMA recognizes the diversity in teaching styles within the global Pilates community, and ITTAP focuses

on the curriculum itself rather than the individuality of trainers.

The Importance of ITTAP: Setting Standards in Pilates Education

The ITTAP program was created in response to the Pilates community’s call for clearer and more

accessible standards in teacher training. Developed with extensive input from professionals and board

members, ITTAP aims to ensure that training programs worldwide adhere to a high level of educational

rigor. The program sets criteria for Mat, Reformer, and Comprehensive teacher training courses, with an

emphasis on quality curriculum, consistent practice, and rigorous assessment.

Bin and Cloe, program coordinators for ITTAP accredited Pilates schools, shared insights on how the

application process challenged them to reassess and strengthen their curriculum. They noted that

ITTAP’s focus on structured, practice-oriented teaching has pushed them to innovate and elevate their

training approach.

The Round Table Experience: An International Dialogue

As the discussion continued, attendees raised thoughtful questions about the accreditation process,

curriculum requirements, and the program’s impact on the international Pilates community. Cloe and

Petros shared their perspectives on how ITTAP can support studios looking to enhance their educational

offerings. Bin highlighted the importance of the program’s inclusivity, ensuring that studios worldwide can

adapt their unique methods while maintaining a consistent quality standard.

One of the most appreciated aspects of ITTAP is its focus on the curriculum itself, rather than endorsing

individual teachers. This ensures that while teaching methods may vary, the foundational standards

remain consistent. The program’s structure - including observation, self-practice, assisted teaching, and

rigorous exams - was discussed in depth, with the audience expressing keen interest in how the program

could elevate their own training practices.

Global Impact: A Growing Interest in Quality Training

The success of the round table at Phoenix Rising underscores the need for international conversations

around Pilates education. The room’s overflow of participants demonstrated a clear global demand for

global standardization in Pilates training. Educators expressed enthusiasm about how ITTAP could

potentially set a benchmark for professional excellence, giving graduates from accredited programs

greater recognition and credibility.

Looking Ahead

The PMA is dedicated to advancing the Pilates profession by setting high educational standards, and the

ITTAP program is a pivotal part of this mission. The positive feedback from Phoenix Rising is just the

beginning. As more studios and training centers pursue ITTAP accreditation, the global Pilates community

will continue to benefit from improved educational quality and professional consistency.

The PMA will keep the community informed about upcoming ITTAP application windows and further

opportunities for professional development. We look forward to seeing how this groundbreaking program

will shape the future of Pilates education worldwide.

For more information about ITTAP, visit the PMA website or reach out via email at

ittap@pilatesmethodalliance.org.