Answer from Rhea Morales: In order to screen potential private instructor, I would ask where the person received their certification and then look it up online. Most proper certification programs have a data base that lists it's professional members. You can go on and ask them what they had to do to get that certification. Did they download it online or did they invest their money in many hours of training? These are good questions to ask. A good private trainer will make a thorough assessment of you. Posture assessment and a thorough background check is important. We need to know about past injuries and where your fitness level is. For example, some pilates moves require you to move your spine in a way that might be contraindicative to an ailment you might have. If you have a herniated disk in your L5, there are certain moves that might exasperate this condition. However, there are also moves that can help you strengthen your spine and relieve pain if you have this condition. In other words, private instructors should not be using the same moves on all of their clients. Everything should be done for a reason. A good private instructor has the intuition to know when you are ready to be pushed harder or if you are strong enough for a more difficult exercise. Chemistry is also important and you shouldn't be paying for training if you do not feel comfortable and safe. Pilates is great for muscle strengthening, stamina, balance, posture, toning, and rehabilitation. Many studies have concluded, however, that there may not be enough cardio conditioning involved to burn a large amount of calories if weight loss is your goal. While some individuals may be challenged enough to burn extra fuel while doing pilates, others may have to add some cardiovascular training such as walking, running, swimming, elliptical, biking, etc. As with any other form of exercise, intensity is a key factor. If you are doing intense pilates and you find that you are exhausted from it and that your muscles are sore as a result, I recommend a day of rest between sessions. If your pilates sessions are less intense, you can do it everyday. This depends on your preference..