How Many Pilates Classes Should You Teach Per Week? Finding Your Ideal Schedule
One of the best things about being a Pilates instructor is the flexibility but with that freedom comes the question: How many classes should I actually be teaching?
Too few, and you might struggle to build confidence and income. Too many, and you risk burnout (trust us, it’s a thing). So how do you find your sweet spot? Let’s break it down.
The Reality of Teaching Pilates Full-Time
Teaching Pilates isn’t like working a traditional 9-to-5. You’re moving, cueing, demonstrating, and holding space for clients every single class and that takes a lot of energy.
So while 30+ hours might be a “normal” full-time job, teaching 30+ classes a week? That’s next-level exhaustion.
A sustainable full-time load: 15–25 classes per week
A balanced part-time load: 5–15 classes per week
Side hustle or supplementing another job: 3–8 classes per week
The key is finding a balance that supports your energy, income, and lifestyle without leaving you feeling totally drained.
How to Find Your Capacity
Your ideal class load depends on a few things:
Your energy levels: Are you someone who thrives on movement, or do you need more recovery time?
Your experience: New instructors may need time to build confidence and stamina.
Your income goals: Are you teaching as a full-time career, a side hustle, or something in between?
Your mix of privates vs. group classes: Privates can be more physically manageable (and higher-paying) than back-to-back group sessions.
Your lifestyle: Do you have other work, studies, or personal commitments to balance?
A great place to start is 8–12 classes per week and adjust as you go. Listen to your body, check in with how you feel, and don’t be afraid to set boundaries around your schedule.
Quality Over Quantity
More classes doesn’t always mean better. If you’re teaching too much, your energy, enthusiasm, and even cueing can start to suffer. Protect your passion by keeping your schedule sustainable and ensuring every class you teach feels fresh, intentional, and inspired.
Make It Work for YOU
There’s no one perfect number, just the right number for you. Whether you’re teaching 5, 15, or 25 classes a week, what matters most is that you love what you do without burning out in the process.
If you’re new to teaching or thinking about becoming an instructor, we cover all of this (and more!) in our courses at Move Pilates Academy because knowing how to teach sustainably is just as important as knowing how to teach well.
Ready to start your Pilates career? Check out our 2025 courses!
