Pilates teaching has become a second career of choice for many former dancers, which makes perfect sense. Many dancers have been doing the exercises since childhood or have used Pilates to heal from injuries. Plus, it’s a way to keep movement in their lives long after they’ve retired from the stage. In recognition of this tradition, Power Pilates, an international Pilates education organization, is teaming up with Career Transition For Dancers (CTFD) to offer matching grants up to $2,000 for enrollment in Power Pilates certification programs offered in more than 40 U.S. cities.

“We at Power Pilates feel that it is both an obligation and an honor to support the dance community. Many of our top instructors have dance backgrounds and we welcome those dancers seeking to become Power Pilates instructors,” says Dr. Howard Sichel, chairman of Power Pilates.

CTFD, a nonprofit with offices in New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, helps professional dancers transition into new careers when dance is no longer an option. The organization offers career counseling, seminars, workshops, support groups and other services free of charge and has helped over 4,100 dancers since it was founded in 1985.

If you’re interested in learning more about or applying for the grant, you can contact Career Transitions for Dancers.