Some instructors also run their own independent classes for yoga or Pilates enthusiasts.

Typical participants in yoga and Pilates include people seeking to improve general health, fitness and wellbeing, expectant and new mothers, professional and amateur sportsmen and performers, and sufferers of chronic conditions such as multiple sclerosis and arthritis.

Yoga originated in ancient India and is now practised globally as a fitness activity. It promotes physical strength and relaxation through a series of postures, meditation and breathing techniques, and the effort and fitness level required varies between disciplines. For example, Bikram yoga is carried out in hot, humid conditions and is only suitable for relatively fit participants, while Kundalini yoga involves meditation and is suitable for participants at any fitness level. Pilates was developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates. It involves similar movements as yoga, but places more emphasis on core strength and stability and requires a range of equipment.

Yoga and Pilates instruction is not statutorily regulated in the UK, but instructors who provide yoga therapy can register with the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC), a voluntary regulator for complementary therapy practitioners, which is funded and supported by the Department of Health. Although registration is not mandatory, it demonstrates the instructor’s qualifications, training and professional standards.

This profile provides information about starting up and trading as a yoga and/or Pilates instructor. It describes the skills required, the training available, the current market trends and the key trading issues. It also explains the legislation that must be complied with and provides sources of further information and support.