WHY SHOULD I JOIN THE PAA?

The PAA is often asked, “Why should I join the PAA ?”

As an industry organisation the PAA is about knowledge, and knowledge goes hand-in-hand with professionalism, dedication to growth, and success. The PAA strongly believes that it is important for an industry to have a strong association to work as a voice for all of the people who make their livelihoods from this industry.

The PAA promotes education body workshops throughout the year and holds its biennial PAA Conference, allowing you to connect with your peers and identify and discuss similar problems that you face in your work. These great networking opportunities also allow you to discuss and explore best practice, and keep up to date as you take part in continuing education.

Another benefit of broadening your network is that you may find a mentor to help you with your professional needs, or you may be in a position to become a mentor to someone else. Giving back can be the greatest reward and benefit of all.

Creating professional relationships is important, and joining an association such as the PAA allows you to have a sense of security and trust. From this, you are able to support and help one another in reaching your professional goals. There’s no better referral source than our colleagues and Pilates mates.

So the answer seems clear. You will get out as much as you put in.

Now that you have completed your registration and are fully fledged members of the PAA, make the effort to attend the AGM meetings, become involved in discussions, meet other members and have your say. Try to dedicate 2-3 hours per month to getting the most out of our industry association. Make suggestions and get involved.

It is important that the PAA hear from you to discuss your suggestions and needs. Contribute to the quarterly newsletter. Let other PAA members know your story, your thoughts, and be a voice for others to benefit from.

We believe it is important to support the industry that we work in. We hope that our investment (both in terms of memberships and time) will continue to make the industry more professional.

If you ask this question: what benefits does this organisation provide to me?” Then a second question might be: “what can I contribute to this organisation that will, in turn, benefit others as well as me?”

Don’t forget to list your association membership on your business card or website. It will help educate the public about your qualifications and that your training meets industry standards.

If you would like to add the PAA logo on your website we encourage you to use it with the wording: 
A member of the Pilates Association Australia – setting standards for the Pilates Industry.

Keep up your membership, be proactive and let us know how the PAA can better serve you and the Pilates industry.

Remember, you get out what you put in — be a part of raising the profile of Pilates to the wider community by being involved!

Olga Tamara
PAA Vice President