Pilates Method Alliance (PMA) Insurance

The PMA was founded in 2001, and it launched the first-ever Pilates-specific educational conference that same year. (Audio CDs and MP3 recordings of the last 11 conferences are available for purchase on the association’s website.) In 2005, the organization expanded to include a certifying agency by launching a third-party professional credential exam. In establishing certification requirements, the PMA helped define the parameters of Pilates teaching. After passing the exam, instructors must earn 16 CECs (continuing education credits) every two years in order to maintain their credentials.

About PMA

The Pilates Method Alliance (PMA) is an international, nonprofit, professional association for Pilates teachers, teacher trainers, studios, and more. The association aims at connecting its members to preserve the teachings of Joseph H. Pilates and unite the Pilates industry at large. There are three levels of PMA membership: Individual ($150), PMA Certified ($99), and Student ($50). PMA Certified members have passed the Pilates Certification Exam and continued to earn the appropriate number of CECs. Benefits of PMA membership include discounted rates on Pilates equipment, continuing education programs, and more. Members receive 42 percent off an annual subscription to Pilates Style magazine, 20 percent off publications from the Human Kinetics bookstore, 10 percent off equipment from Pilates Designs by Basil, and special rates on professional, student or studio insurance. Pilates Insurance Program.

Pilates Liability Insurance

The PMA offers one of three professional liability insurance programs to its members, depending on their regional location. United States members receive insurance through Lockton Affinity, a program that includes professional and general liability coverage, $1 million per claim and $3 million annual aggregate. PMA members receive Lockton Affinity insurance for as low as $159. For the exact same price, Pilates instructors may purchase a Pilates Insurance Plus policy and receive $2 million of professional and general liability coverage (per occurrence) instead of $1 million. PLUS, they will receive occurrence coverage, as opposed to claims-made. PMA/ Lockton Policies are written on claims-made insurance forms. Claims reported after the policy expires are only covered if an extended reporting period, or tail coverage, is purchased.  This 12-month reporting period endorsement may be purchased within 60 days of the policy’s expiration or cancellation. Terrorism Risk Insurance may also be purchased for a surcharge of five to ten percent. PMA members in Canada may purchase insurance through Hub International KHMB, and those in the United Kingdom or Spain may purchase coverage though Balens Specialist Insurance Brokers.

To learn more about Pilates Insurance Plus, call:

1-800-934-7135

or