Olivia Bioni: Burnout, Better Teaching, & the Pilates Teachers Manual Book

What does it really take to become a confident Pilates teacher—and enjoy the process instead of burning out?

That’s what we explore in this episode of Life as a Pilates Instructor with Olivia Bioni—longtime teacher, podcast host, and now author of the brand-new book, Pilates Teachers Manual: Your Guide to Becoming a Great Pilates Teacher.

Related: Listen to more Pilates Instructor stories here

From the Stage to the Studio

Olivia didn’t come to Pilates through a traditional path. She was an athlete and a performer first—soccer, theater, yoga. But when she discovered Pilates, something clicked.

Except... it wasn’t an easy start.

She describes feeling intimidated by the equipment, unsure how to transition from movement lover to teacher. But her background in education (she once taught kindergarten!) gave her the observational and communication skills that now shape her Pilates philosophy.

“I Was Overbooked and Burned Out”

When she first started teaching full-time, Olivia did what many new instructors do: take every client, sub every class, say yes to everything.

It didn’t take long before that approach led to exhaustion.

“I wanted to help people, but I was running myself into the ground,” she says.

That turning point in 2020 led her to start a podcast. What began as a creative outlet quickly became a resource for teachers who felt underprepared and overextended. Through honest conversations and solo episodes, Olivia shares what most training programs don’t.

What New Teachers Really Need

One of the major themes in our conversation is this:

“Just because you’re certified doesn’t mean you feel ready.”

Too many training programs rush students through, offer little mentorship, and leave them wondering what to do next.

Olivia’s mission is to change that. Her podcasts, and now her book, are designed to bridge the gap between certification and confidence. From cueing, boundaries, and scheduling to understanding different bodies—she covers it all with clarity and care.

Why Mat Teaching Is More Than a Stepping Stone

We also talk about something we both believe strongly:

You don’t need to train on all the equipment to be a great teacher.

In fact, Olivia sees the Mat as a smart starting point. It’s:

- More accessible
- Less overwhelming
- And ideal for teachers who want to explore teaching before committing to a comprehensive program

And yes—you can build a fulfilling, sustainable teaching career on the Mat alone.

Her New Book: Pilates Teachers Manual

Olivia’s new book is everything she wishes she had when she started.

It’s over 300 pages of guidance for teachers at every stage—from the “am I really doing this?” phase to seasoned instructors refining their skills. You'll find chapters on:

- Teaching philosophy
- Movement mechanics
- Cueing strategies
- Setting boundaries
- Client relationships
- And the business of teaching

Whether you’re actively teaching or just thinking about it, this book is a thoughtful companion that doesn’t sugarcoat the hard stuff—but makes it all feel a little more doable.

Watch the Interview

This episode is full of honest insight, refreshing perspectives, and practical advice for Pilates teachers who want to do this work well—without sacrificing themselves in the process.

You’ll walk away with clarity, encouragement, and a few “me too” moments if you’ve ever struggled to find your footing in this industry.