Over the last few years, my work as a fitness professional has gradually shifted. I’ve found myself leaning more towards wellness-focused movement rather than high-energy, high-impact sessions — and honestly, it feels like a very natural evolution.
I’m currently studying my Level 3 Mat-Based Pilates qualification, and the decision to take this course this year was a really intentional one. Pilates is a pathway I’m genuinely enjoying, and it’s an area I want to continue developing both professionally and personally.
In 2025, I ran two events that really confirmed this direction for me: a Candlelight Fitness Pilates session and a Movement & Meditation event. I loved both — not just the movement, but the atmosphere, the calm energy, and the way people connected with themselves during the sessions. Those experiences made it very clear that wellness-based events are where I want to focus more of my time going forward.
Part of that decision is also about longevity. As I get older, I don’t want to be jumping around constantly. I want movement that supports strength, mobility, mindfulness, and long-term health — for myself and for the people I work with.
Getting back to studying
I’ve been working on my Pilates portfolio and, surprisingly, I’m really enjoying the process. I’ve also had some good news: due to my existing qualifications, I’m exempt from around half of the units. That means no exams — just the theory side of Pilates, which suits me perfectly.
There are still a few key elements to complete:
•A one-to-one case study, designing a Pilates programme for an individual client
•A progressive plan with short-, medium-, and long-term goals (6, 12, and 20 weeks)
•A class plan and filmed session with participants
Thankfully, I’ve got plenty of lovely Fitness Pilates clients who are more than happy to help with the filmed class.
My goal is to complete everything within the next four weeks, ideally before February half-term. That’s where the real challenge comes in — planning my study time properly.
I’ll be honest: I’m a bit of a procrastinator. I don’t feel particularly organised, even though people often ask how I fit everything in. My usual answer is “I don’t sleep” — which is only partly true. Maybe I’m more organised than I give myself credit for… or maybe I just work well under pressure.
Planning for the future
One thing I am trying to be more intentional about this year is how I use my spare time. Evenings are limited, and if I’m honest, I’ve probably spent more time gaming than I should have (I’m a massive Fortnite fan 🎮). This year, I want to read more — both fiction and non-fiction.
The book that arrived today to support my studies is Pilates Return to Life Through Contrology by Joseph Pilates, the creator of Pilates himself. It feels quite special reading the original philosophy behind the method while training to teach it.
This blog is part of me being a bit more open and accountable — mapping my study journey, sharing the ups and downs, and hopefully showing that personal development doesn’t have to be perfect to be worthwhile.
So I’ll leave you with a question.
Are you looking at developing a new skill this year?
Is there something you’d like to learn — fitness-related or not?
There are so many accessible options now, from short courses on platforms like Udemy or Skillshare, to free learning via YouTube, or even exploring something new around your own health and wellbeing.
I’d genuinely love to know.
Feel free to comment below the blog and share what you’re curious about learning this year.
