the lab
by elena lamadrid
about the program
Led by Somos Pilates Nashville founder Elena LaMadrid, The Lab is a 500-hour comprehensive Pilates teacher training program developed in collaboration with THE LAB—an established curriculum created by Holly Swanson (Core Chicago Pilates) and Jacquelyn Brennan (Pilates & Coffee).
Accredited by the National Pilates Certification Program (formerly the PMA), this training is built for those who want to do more than learn the work—it’s designed to teach you how to lead it.
Rooted in both classical and contemporary methodology, the program covers all major apparatuses: Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, and Barrel. But beyond the equipment, it prepares you to become a world-class instructor—able to thoughtfully program sessions, navigate contraindications and injuries, and confidently teach clients across a wide range of backgrounds, bodies, and movement needs.
With structured mentorship, hands-on training, and professional guidance throughout, you’ll leave with a deep understanding of the method, the ability to think critically as a teacher, and a clear voice of your own.
Ready to go deeper? Download the info packet to learn more HERE.
your teaching journey starts here
At Somos Pilates Nashville, teacher training isn’t just about learning the work—it’s about becoming a teacher in every sense of the word. From your first training weekend to your first class on the schedule, we mentor you through the full arc of development.
We recognize that every teacher’s path into Pilates is unique. That’s why our weekends-only format is intentionally designed for flexibility—whether you’re working full-time, commuting from out of town, or balancing life’s other commitments.
Throughout the program, you’ll build the skills required of a thoughtful, adaptable instructor:
How to cue with clarity and precision
How to create intentional class flows grounded in anatomy and progression
How to navigate injuries and contraindications safely and confidently
And how to meet a wide range of clients where they are—with variations that make the work accessible and effective for all bodies.
Just as importantly, you’ll gain insight into the business of teaching—how to pursue the right opportunities, grow a client base, and step into the industry with both knowledge and confidence.
We don’t just develop instructors. We cultivate educators—teachers who are grounded, articulate, and deeply attuned to the art and science of Pilates.
Open enrollment for FALL TEACHER TRAINING 2025 is full. Join the Waitlist for Fall. Stay tuned for Spring 2026 dates.
Open enrollment for FALL TEACHER TRAINING 2025 is full. Join the Waitlist for Fall. Stay tuned for Spring 2026 dates.
fall 2025 teacher training
Interested in joining our next training program? Registration opens July 18 - check back here for details on enrollment. First come, first served. Spots are limited!
Must complete all registration requirements to officially register in the program. In the meantime, don’t hesitate to reach out and learn more about The LAB program, becoming an instructor or any other questions you may have: hello@somospilatesnashville.com
*Dates are subject to change due to schedule conflicts, weather, or unforeseen circumstances.
Weekend 1: September 28-30
History, philosophy, professionalism, scope of practice, ethics, anatomy, movement principles, begin mat training
Location: East Nashville, Friday 4-7pm, Saturday and Sunday 11am-6pm
Weekend 2: October 11 & 12
Mat training (continued)
Location: East Nashville, Saturday and Sunday 11am-6pm
Weekend 3: October 25 & 26
Reformer, Part 1
Location: East Nashville, Saturday and Sunday 11am-6pM
Weekend 4: November 8 & 9
Reformer, Part 2
Location: East Nashville, Saturday and Sunday 11am-6pm
Weekend 5: November 15 & 16
Cadillac/Tower training
Location: the Nations, Saturday and Sunday 11am-6pm
Weekend 6: December 6 & 7
Chair, ladder barrel, and spine corrector training
Location: the Nations, Saturday and Sunday 11am-6pm
Weekend Conflict? We have virtual learning options if you do have a date conflict or the option to schedule a 1:1 with Elena or Megan to make up for the missed hours at a rate of $100/hr. Email us to let us know your date & weekend conflict and we can tell you more about the virtual learning option and our recommendation.
Investment
Comprehensive Certification: $6,000
*$5,500 if paid in full by start of Module 1
Mat & Reformer: $4,500
*$4,000 if paid in full by start of Module 1
Individual Modules: $1,000 per Module
*If cost is holding you back, please chat with us. Payment plans are available upon request.
Open enrollment for FALL TEACHER TRAINING 2025 is full. Join the Waitlist for Fall. Stay tuned for Spring 2026 dates.
Open enrollment for FALL TEACHER TRAINING 2025 is full. Join the Waitlist for Fall. Stay tuned for Spring 2026 dates.
TERMS & CONDITIONS:
Deposit of $500 is due upon registration.
Missed session are made up at $100/hr subject to availability with Elena LaMadrid or Megan Hopkins or virtual learning option upon prior approval.
Deposit is non-refundable.
Full payment is due by the program start date or first payment of payment program.
Payment plans are available. Please inquire by contacting the studio.
No refunds. All sales are final.
Liability waiver, registration form & payment agreement a must be completed before training begins.
Studio rental options are available to complete training hours: first 20 hours for Mat + Reformer TT practice hours are free. Additional studio rental options are available after initial hours logged. First 40 hours for Comprehensive studio usage are free, additional studio rental options after hours completed. The studio owner has the right to forfeit your ability to use the studio if you use the space inappropriately.
You must have personal liability insurance to practice teach at Studio Pilates Nashville.
Please be courteous of classes & or privates going on while completing your training at Studio Pilates Nashville.
While you are completing your training or training hours you are viewed as part of the SPN team. You are expected to tidy up, sanitize any equipment used & leave the studio how you found it.
Test out must be scheduled directly with Megan and or Elena upon their availability with a minimum of 2 weeks notice. Test-out is $300 and due before scheduled date.
After you have completed your training, if you wish to teach at Studio Pilates Nashville you will be required to audition to teach. Completion of this program does not guarantee a teaching position at Studio Pilates Nashville.
perks, benefits, and more.
Mentorship from owner Elena LaMadrid, Teacher Training Lead Megan Hopkins & DPT Christina Reburn
Bound manuals included
Studio Rental Options at West & East Nashville
15% off 5 Class Packages or any membership while completing training
Access to SPN to complete practice hours & observation
Test-Out Study Guide
Have more questions about the program, teacher training or if this program is right for you? Fill out this form with any questions & we’ll be in touch to make sure you feel prepared before beginning the program.