A MESSAGE FROM EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST AND
CHIEF PILATES PROMOTER
Charles Blount, BS, CPP
Move With Purpose
One year ago, I was sitting at my favorite morning hideaway in between clients—the Fountain Room at the Beverly Hills Hotel. It’s the best-kept secret in LA. For the same price as breakfast at Erewhon grocery store, you can sit next to Martha Stewart and have an omelet while watching the Europeans eat a piece of toast and drink a tiny cup of coffee. (And Americans have a threecourse breakfast.)
As I was tucked away in my favorite corner of the large countertop breakfast bar, I was looking into who owned PilatesStyle Magazine. I was thinking about all the trade shows and the amazing community it supported—the old shows in LA, New York, and Florida. What a great group and amazing times! I remember Mari Winsor holding court over dinner every night.
I launched a product with PilatesStyle over 15 years ago. That’s how I grew it. Vogue Magazine even called me because they saw my product in PilatesStyle. My wife and Susannah Cotrone worked the shows. It was an amazing time with amazing people!
To my shock, PilatesStyle was gone!
How could this be? It was the cornerstone of the Pilates community! The access point for the “regular” world to see inside this coveted practice created by a brilliant, wild man so long ago. The only Pilates magazine in the world was gone!
Of course, being an entrepreneur, my curiosity kicked in. I researched it and discovered that the URL (domain name) and intellectual property (trademarks) were available—at a price, but available nonetheless. So I purchased and filed them.
I had to do it! I just couldn’t help myself.
I know how much it meant to all of us who participated—the hardcore classical practitioners, the newbies, and the crossover people like me. I’m a trainer and exercise physiologist who had worked with another wacky genius—one who taught me about the mind and movement and how they interface.
Over 15 years ago, my mentor, Elenor, essentially validated every principle created by Joseph Pilates from a neurological standpoint. It’s a brilliance that we are really just now able to put names to—things such as Golgi tendon organs and stretch
reflex spindle fibers and their overall effect on a person’s well-being and health. Not just the physical benefits but the amazing mental benefits we all know. There is no better Charles than the one walking down the hall in Equinox on the way back to my car after a classical session!
The concept of extension and expansion as opposed to weight training fascinated me. The weights represented flexion, shortening, and breaking down. Pilates is expansion and extension! What a perfect complement! One we disconnect to get through it, the other we engage and connect! My mentor used a very similar technique to force engagement by the neurological patient—one centered on breathing. She told me that’s the genius of Pilates: this hardwiring or selfconnection that it enhanced. Every traditional weight training client I have ever worked with who had done Pilates first was unbelievable— an experience I have shared with other trainers I have spoken with.
After first creating a Pilates product, as any marketer would contemplate, I wanted my product to be something that everyone should own. There was just one problem! If people are doing Pilates correctly, they are best served to have hands-on instruction. They need an instructor!
I consider a Pilates instructor much like a shaman or sha-woman— someone who must interpret the person’s experience of their body and guide them to the correct form and self-connection. This made it very hard to sell a Pilates product to just anyone (not in good conscience). So I had to go to the sha-people—the instructors first— with a non-traditional tool. We all know how that goes. But we were well-received, and we later had the largest and most successful giveaway contests in PilatesStyle history. We had a great run!
I also spurred on a bunch of cheap plastic knockoffs! There’s an entire category of Pilates bars on Alibaba. You’re welcome!
I’ve invented two products, and they both got ripped off at scale!
There is always one thing you can depend on—no matter where you are, if you encounter a Pilates enthusiast or instructor, you have met a friend. Generally enthusiastic, outgoing, educated, optimistic, and charismatic—you know who you
are! My mentor, Elenor, would have a few things to say about you. People say that how you do anything is how you do everything. Elenor would say that how you move influences how you think!
Could moving with control and intention be wiring us a certain way? I don’t know about you, but I prefer to Move With Purpose in every aspect of my life!
I have a client who is a psychiatrist, and I was speaking with him about Pilates and self-connection. He said something that really hit me—if we were all more connected to ourselves, we would be more kind to each other!
That has to be true!
Anyway, back to PilatesStyle—I know we need this. We need a place to congregate and share ideas, a place to learn, a place to pop into when we are taking a break at the studio and see what’s new! A place where people can learn about Pilates and find a local studio.
We want people who are curious to take action, and we want you to be there to receive them!
If you are new to Pilates, we are creating a network of support for you! It’s what Joe would have wanted! He would pull people in off the street and make them believers. This is our street!
We are not going to be perfect in the beginning, but you will see that we will listen! We will continue to get better and give you what you deserve.
We have a lot of ideas, and I can’t wait to share them!
Feel free to reach out to us with any suggestions at admin@pilatesstyle. com—after all, this is your magazine too!
Welcome to the NEW PilatesStyle!
Welcome home!
Photo by Gratz
and Move With Purpose™️ are trademarks of Charles Arthur Blount
with Lacey Hall of Peninsula Pilates
Photo by Gratz
Photo by Jeffrey Nicholson, makeup by Michele Taylor.
RESILIENCE AND STRENGTH:
The Inspiring Journey of Kahley Schiller
By Charles Blount, Chief Pilates Promoter
How a Life-Saving Liver Transplant, Pilates, and Professional Football Intersected to Create a Story of Triumph
BEYOND THE FIELD: THE UNSUNG HEROES OF ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE
In professional sports, success is often credited to athletes’ talent, rigorous training, and the strategic brilliance of their coaches. But behind the scenes, there are lesser-known figures who play a crucial role in their performance, recovery, and longevity.
One of these remarkable individuals is Kahley Schiller, a Kansas City-based Pilates instructor whose expertise has influenced some of the NFL’s top athletes. She truly exemplifies the PilatesStyle motto: Move With Purpose! But her journey isn’t just about training elite players—it’s about resilience, survival, and a second chance at life.
A PILATES ICON: FROM COVER STAR TO A SYMBOL OF STRENGTH
Kahley is no stranger to the Pilates community. In May/June 2013, she graced the cover of PilatesStyle Magazine, showcasing her passion for movement and dedication to the craft. At the time, she was already making waves in the industry—known for her strong yet graceful approach to teaching and movement therapy.
But little did she know that years later, she would call on everything she had learned—not just for her clients, but for herself.
The Pilates method is more than an exercise regimen; it’s a way of life. It teaches you how to mentally and physically push through pain.
An Unexpected Battle: Facing Liver Failure
In August 2019, Kahley started feeling extreme fatigue and nausea—symptoms she initially brushed off as the demands of running her business and being a mom. Then, she noticed the whites of her eyes turning yellow. Doctors delivered a devastating diagnosis: Acute end-stage liver failure due to autoimmune hepatitis.
As someone who has witnessed this devastating illness in someone very close to me I can tell you, there are no words to describe how devastating this is. Kahley even gave me advice a few years ago. I reached out through Facebook as a total stranger to tell her my situation.
Her body was attacking her own liver, and without a transplant, she had just 90 days to live. “I was given a second chance at life from someone’s loss. That can be a heavy concept to fully grasp. I made a commitment to myself and my donor, Jason, to push beyond my insecurities and just go for it.”
On October 2, 2019, after weeks of waiting, she received the news: a donor had been found. The surgery was anything but routine. She suffered a pulmonary embolism and multiple strokes during the procedure.
But Kahley fought.
Rebuilding Through Pilates
Kahley’s remarkable recovery began almost immediately, just two months post-surgery. Unlike many transplant patients who struggle to regain their strength, she was already back to teaching Pilates.
She attributes her rapid healing to two things:
1. Her strong Pilates foundation before surgery.
2. The rehabilitative nature of Pilates.
“The Pilates method is more than an exercise regimen; it’s a way of life. It teaches you how to mentally and physically push through pain.”
During recovery, she relied on her breathwork training to help her stay calm and focused.
“I used Pilates breathing while waiting for the call that there was a liver donor for me—to help me relax. And after, to rehabilitate my body back to symmetry and balance.”
Throughout her journey, she leaned on this quote from Joseph Pilates:
“Patience and persistence are vital qualities in the ultimate successful accomplishment of any worthwhile endeavor.”
This philosophy not only guided her recovery but also shaped how she now teaches and supports others.
“It has made me more compassionate, patient, and has helped me navigate to meet the needs of my clients.”
Her journey deepened her understanding of movement—and soon, it would bring her into the world of elite athletes.
Pilates Meets Professional Football: Training the Kansas City Chiefs
Kahley’s expertise caught the attention of Kansas City’s top athletes when she began training Trent Green, The former Chiefs quarterback Trent Green.
Word spread fast.
Soon, her Pilates knowledge became a game-changer for the Kansas City Chiefs, especially among defensive linemen, who were looking for:
4 Injury prevention
4 Core strength for stability on the field
4 Increased mobility for agility and speed
The Chiefs embraced Pilates, incorporating it into their training routines. Exercises such as:
4 Footwork drills for speed and balance
4 Pulling straps for upper-body mobility
4 Bridging work for explosive power
Pilates has helped these athletes improve posture, recover faster, and move more efficiently on the field.
As the Kansas City Chiefs continue to dominate, Kahley’s impact behind the scenes cannot be overlooked.
A Testament to Resilience
Kahley Schiller’s story is a testament to strength, second chances, and the power of movement. Her journey—from gracing the cover of PilatesStyle in 2013, to fighting for her life in 2019, to training elite athletes in 2024—proves that Pilates is more than just exercise. It’s a tool for healing, performance, and survival.
As the Kansas City Chiefs celebrate another Super Bowl appearance, it’s important to recognize the individuals who work behind the scenes—people like Kahley Schiller, who are helping athletes stay strong and injury-free. Her mission is not just about Pilates— it’s about helping others move, heal, and connect to themselves.
Today, Kahley is more committed than ever to sharing her story and expertise. We could not be more pleased and excited to have her on the first digital PilatesStyle flip cover! What an inspiration and a true teacher of the power of Moving With Purpose! g
Follow her on Instagram @PilatesKCgirl and @pilatesbykahley
Look At Us Grow! PilatesStyle Magazine
By PilatesStyle Magazine
Pilates has become a cornerstone of modern fitness, blending strength, flexibility, and mindfulness into one dynamic practice. Its popularity is evident not only in search trends but also in the sheer number of Pilates studios operating across the United States. With approximately 12,797 studios currently open nationwide, Pilates has firmly established itself as a major player in the fitness industry.
Leading the way is California, home to 2,534 studios, accounting for nearly 20% of the nation’s total. Following closely behind are New York with 1,107 studios and Texas with 1,023 studios. Together, these three states make up more than one-third of all Pilates locations, reflecting concentrated interest in urban and fitness-focused areas.
This rapid growth didn’t happen overnight. Over the past decade, the Pilates industry has experienced steady expansion, riding the wave of wellness trends and consumer demand for low-impact, highly effective workouts. The combined market size for Pilates and yoga studios in the U.S. was valued at $12.82 billion in 2020, up from $12.68 billion the previous year, despite challenges faced during the pandemic.
From 2017 to 2023, the number of Pilates and yoga studios grew from 32,354 to 48,547, boasting an average annual growth rate of 4.6%. This growth rate highlights the resilience and adaptability of the Pilates industry, which quickly pivoted to hybrid and virtual class formats during times of uncertainty while continuing to thrive as in-person sessions returned.
What’s fueling this expansion? For one, Pilates appeals to a broad demographic. It’s popular with fitness enthusiasts seeking strength and mobility, busy professionals looking to de-stress, and older adults prioritizing lowimpact movements to maintain joint health. Its adaptability to different needs has made it a universal workout for both men and women.
The rise of boutique fitness studios also plays a role. Many Pilates businesses operate in smaller, specialized spaces, offering personalized attention and class variations like reformer Pilates, mat Pilates, and fusion classes. These studios often provide memberships, attracting long-term clientele and fostering a sense of community.
Social media and influencer marketing have further amplified Pilates’ visibility. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok showcase Pilates routines, transformations, and celebrity endorsements, encouraging new audiences to give it a try. Additionally, Google search trends show a resurgence of interest, with Pilates classes ranking high in popularity over the past two years.
As Pilates continues to flourish, it’s clear that the practice has evolved beyond a fitness trend into a lifestyle movement. With more than 12,000 studios in the U.S. and counting, Pilates is redefining fitness for the modern age— proving that mindful movement is here to stay.
For those looking to join this booming trend, now is the perfect time to explore local studios, sign up for a class, or even consider opening a studio of your own. With consistent growth and increasing demand, Pilates is more than an exercise—it’s a thriving industry shaping the future of wellness. g
A Global Fitness Phenomenon
By PilatesStyle Magazine
Pilates has cemented itself as a staple in the fitness industry, blending strength, flexibility, and mindfulness into one transformative workout. Once regarded as a niche exercise, Pilates has now become a global trend, consistently ranking among the most searched fitness terms on Google. Its surge in popularity highlights a shift toward holistic wellness and functional training, appealing to fitness enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds.
PILATES HAS NOW BECOME A GLOBAL TREND
According to recent data, Google searches for the term “Pilates” have reached new heights, especially in urban hubs like Sydney, Australia, and New York City, USA. In Sydney, searches for “Pilates class” have soared by 60% over the past year, as residents increasingly prioritize health and body conditioning. This rise mirrors the growing number of boutique Pilates studios popping up across the city, catering to demand for personalized, small-group sessions.
New York City reflects a similar trend. In 2023, Pilates was named the most popular workout by ClassPass, with searches hitting a five-year high. The city’s fastpaced lifestyle has driven residents to seek workouts that not only sculpt the body but also reduce stress— an essential balance Pilates is uniquely equipped to provide. Top-tier studios across Manhattan and Brooklyn have responded by offering classes that focus on injury prevention, body sculpting, and postural alignment.
PILATES WAS NAMED THE MOST POPULAR WORKOUT BY CLASSPASS
This resurgence of interest isn’t confined to major metropolitan areas. Google Trends reveals that Pilates has experienced a global revival, attracting a new generation of practitioners looking for low-impact yet highly effective fitness solutions. Even after brief declines in searches between 2008 and 2015, Pilates has rebounded strongly, signaling its long-lasting appeal and adaptability.
In Pennsylvania, for example, Pilates searches experienced a dip in the mid-2000s but have gradually increased as more people rediscover its benefits. Studios have adapted by offering virtual classes and hybrid memberships, appealing to busy schedules and remote workers. This flexibility has helped Pilates reclaim its reputation as one of the most versatile fitness systems available.
Experts attribute Pilates’ rising popularity to its ability to cater to a diverse audience. From professional athletes recovering from injuries to seniors seeking improved mobility, Pilates offers scalable programs that deliver results. It also emphasizes core strength and proper alignment—qualities that resonate with those looking to enhance performance in other sports or simply improve their quality of life.
Additionally, modern marketing strategies and social media have played a pivotal role in promoting Pilates. Influencers and fitness professionals frequently share their experiences, showcasing how Pilates complements various fitness routines. This visibility has encouraged younger demographics to give Pilates a try, further fueling its momentum.
Cities like Sydney and New York are proving that Pilates is more than just a passing trend. It’s a movement redefining how people approach fitness—prioritizing
mindful movement over high-impact intensity. With demand surging and classes filling up faster than ever, Pilates continues to reshape bodies and lifestyles worldwide.
For those curious about starting their Pilates journey, now is the perfect time to explore local studios or online resources. Whether you’re looking to improve flexibility, build strength, or simply de-stress, Pilates offers something for everyone—and the data shows it’s here to stay.
As Pilates continues to dominate Google searches and studio bookings, one thing is clear: the practice isn’t just thriving; it’s leading a fitness revolution. From Sydney’s bustling studios to New York’s urban sanctuaries, Pilates has proven that its timeless principles can adapt to modern life—making it the goto workout for a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. g
Photo by Gratz
IN-PERSON PILATES EDUCATION:
The Real Deal by Chaz Knight
By Chaz Knight
I’ve been teaching Pilates for ten years. While some might consider that a significant tenure, I often hear that I’m still at the beginning of my career. Debates about what constitutes “a long time” aside, I’ve witnessed the rise of online Pilates certifications—and it’s been a game-changer for the industry.
My first two certifications were entirely in person, each exceeding 500 hours, with my second nearing 1,000. I couldn’t imagine learning any other way. Yet, two years ago, I enrolled in a third certification program that was predominantly online, and the difference was stark.
While online programs undoubtedly enhance accessibility, they also diminish many of the elements that make Pilates education truly special: the studio environment, opportunities to observe seasoned professionals, mentorship, and the shared experiences of learning alongside fellow trainees.
The rise of online certification programs has transformed the education landscape for aspiring Pilates instructors. But is this transformation entirely beneficial?
Chaz Knight
Passionate educator of the Romana and Fletcher lineages. AVAILABLE FOR WORKSHOPS, ONLINE AND IN PERSON TRAINING.
THE VALUE OF IN-PERSON TRAINING
First and foremost, in-person training provides a level of interaction and feedback that online courses simply cannot replicate. A skilled instructor can observe a trainee’s teaching style, body language, and cueing techniques in real-time, offering personalized adjustments and constructive criticism. This immediate feedback is crucial for developing the nuanced skills necessary to guide bodies safely and effectively.
There’s something irreplaceable about the tactile experience of hands-on guidance, hearing anecdotes about the Pilates “elders,” and sharing breakthroughs with peers in the moment. A screen simply cannot replicate that depth of connection or understanding. Building a Collaborative Learning Environment
In-person education fosters a collaborative learning environment. Engaging with fellow trainees allows for an exchange of ideas, experiences, and teaching methodologies. This interaction enriches the learning process and cultivates a sense of community among future instructors.
The relationships formed during in-person training often last decades, spanning the globe and creating a network that feels like family. While I’ve made valuable connections through my online certification(my best friend), there’s no comparison to the camaraderie of sharing an exhausted laugh with fellow apprentices after an eight-hour day in the studio.
THE INVALUABLE PRESENCE OF A MENTOR
The physical presence of a mentor is transformative. Learning from someone dedicated to educating and inspiring aspiring professionals is a profound experience. Hands-on demonstrations and practice sessions allow trainees to grasp complex concepts and techniques more effectively and safely.
For instance, executing your first teaser in a room full of fellow apprentices, with your mentor beaming proudly, is an unforgettable milestone. Practicing alone in front of a screen simply cannot replicate that moment.
ACCOUNTABILITY AND COMMITMENT
In-person training fosters a sense of accountability and commitment. Investing time, energy, and resources into live training encourages participants to fully engage and take their education seriously. This level of commitment is vital for developing the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the competitive field of Pilates instruction.
Let’s face it: there’s a world of difference between logging on five minutes after waking up and getting up at 5:00 AM to be at the studio by 7:00 AM. The
discipline and accountability forged through in-person training set new teachers up for success in ways that online programs struggle to match.
THE MAGIC OF A DEDICATED TRAINING SPACE
The atmosphere of a dedicated training space cannot be overstated. A studio equipped with apparatus and resources creates an environment that fosters focused learning. It allows instructors to immerse themselves in the practice, free from the distractions that often accompany online learning.
WHY I’M RETURNING TO IN-PERSON TRAINING
As I embark on my fourth certification (yes, fourth), I’ve chosen to fly to Lisbon four times over 15 months to train in person. Why? Because learning from a master in a space filled with passionate professionals is lifechanging.
While online training programs offer valuable resources, they cannot replicate the legendary teachers we still revere from the golden era of Pilates. The benefits of real-time feedback, collaborative learning, hands-on practice, accountability, and a dedicated training environment are vital for developing competent and confident Pilates instructors.
As the industry continues to grow, prioritizing inperson education will ensure that instructors are wellequipped to meet their clients’ needs while upholding the integrity of the Pilates method. g
Photo by Gratz
PilatesStyle.com is introducing a STUDIO FINDER, making it easier than ever for clients to discover your studio. Be ready to add your studio and connect with potential clients. Stay tuned for details!
We’re now accepting article submissions from Pilates PROFESSIONALS, ENTHUSIASTS , and EXPERTS . Have an inspiring story, expert insights, or a training tip to share? Send your articles to admin@pilatesstyle.com for a chance to be featured in an upcoming issue!
We’re thrilled to announce that Sam and Susannah Cotrone will be our GUEST EDITORS for the next issue! Don’t miss their expert insights and exclusive content.
FROM REHAB TO REFORMER:
How Pilates Complements Physical Therapy
By PilatesStyle Magazine
What first drew you to physical therapy, and how did Pilates become a natural extension of your work?
I was a competitive swimmer and dancer in my youth and always loved movement. When I was in high school I spent a Saturday at a New York Sports Club to observe a massage therapist, personal trainer, and physical therapist. I was immediately drawn to the fitness environment filled with likeminded individuals. From my observation I gathered the Physical Therapist had the most freedom in regards to how they spent a session with a client. The PT was able to provide massage therapy techniques and follow up with exercise that was synergistic to the manual therapy provided.
As I continued my exploration of movement and fitness I discovered Pilates. I quickly recognized the similarities between swimming, dancing and Pilates. To further my understanding of Pilates I went through a Pilates Instructor Training course. I learned the principles of Pilates directly align with those of physical therapy; breathing, precision, concentration, control. flow, and centering.
Morgan Christy PT, DPT, OCS
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Orthopedic Clinical Specialist
Certified Pilates Instructor
What unique benefits does Pilates offer to your physical therapy clients that traditional methods might not?
The connection between movement and your breath is a great benefit Pilates offers to my physical therapy clients. In some strength training there is emphasis on breathing to assist the client throughout the movement but nothing compares to Pilates. Every movement is timed with your breath and this timing can change the focus of these movements. Let’s take a simple bicep curl, using the exhale during elbow flexion focuses on the concentric muscle activation, while using the exhale during elbow extension focuses on the eccentric muscle activation of the biceps. By changing the timing of your clients breath, it allows the clinician to change the focus of a specific movement.
My goal with this course is to promote Pilates within the physical therapy community.
You recently purchased a Pilates table designed specifically for physical therapy. How does this equipment enhance your ability to treat patients?
The clinical-studio Pilates reformer I purchased from Balanced Body is raised which allows me to provide hands on cues to my clients without sacrificing my own body mechanics. The height also provides my clients with a direct line of sight when I demonstrate an exercise or movement. The Revo Springbar allows me to adjust the location of the carriage in relation to the footbar for clients as needed. This is vital with clients who have range of motion restrictions or limitations. Setting up the equipment appropriately for each client sets them up for success in the movement or exercise.
Can you share a success story of a client who benefited from your combined approach of physical therapy and Pilates?
I have a client with Ankylosing Spondylitis, which causes inflammation, stiffness, and pain to the spine and other joints. This woman was suffering from constant pain and stiffness to her neck and low back which progressed to numbness and tingling in her right hand. My physical therapy background provided me the knowledge to develop a Pilates session to improve symptoms and provide safe exercise. I tailored our Pilates sessions to focus on core strengthening without activation of compensatory musculature. After 6 weeks of Pilates twice a week she no longer had numbness and tingling in her right arm. I have continued to work with this woman so she can maintain a healthy lifestyle despite the progressive arthritic changes occurring in her spine.
In what ways do you think Pilates helps with injury prevention or rehabilitation compared to other modalities?
Pilates is unique in that it focuses on eccentric muscle strengthening which is vital to injury prevention. Every Pilates exercise encourages full range of motion and muscle length to get the most out of each movement. As you grow your Pilates practice you will see the changes in your range of motion and muscle length which overall reduces risk of injury! Pilates has several foundational principles including precision, balance and control. By applying these principles to exercise you maximize the benefits of each movement while reducing risk of injury. Pilates exercises mimic the movements performed in our daily lives which helps to provide strength for activities of daily living. “Developing minor muscles naturally helps to strengthen major muscles. As small bricks are employed to build large buildings, so will the development of small muscles help develop large muscles.” Joseph Pilates, Return to Life Through Contrology
Marina del Rey is known for its active, health-conscious community. How has this influenced your practice?
Working in such an active and health-conscious community is simply a joy. I am grateful to work and live in a community of like minded individuals. This has influenced my practice in that I not only work with clients with active injuries but those who want to maintain an overall healthy lifestyle. My clients often transition from traditional rehab to performance training so we can continue working together based on their needs and goals.
Photo by Gratz
As a physical therapist, how do you tailor Pilates exercises to meet the specific needs of clients recovering from injuries?
It’s all about selecting the MOST appropriate exercise for each client and how to cue them to get through the movement. Everyone can benefit from core exercise, but if you have weak deep neck flexors lifting your head and chest to perform core strengthening places excessive stress on the neck or cervical spine. As a physical therapist I can assess for these weaknesses and adjust pilates exercises to set my clients up for success. Another group that benefits from my background is pre and post-natal women. A common complication of pregnancy is rectus abdominis diastasis or abdominal separation. To reduce risk of this complication you must ensure the client is engaging their transverse abdominus or deep abdominals when performing exercise. Simple cues of drawing the bellybutton to spine can help the client perform the exercise safely.
What challenges did you face transitioning from traditional physical therapy to integrating Pilates into your practice, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge I faced was educating patients on the similarities between physical therapy and Pilates. The patients I had been seeing for traditional physical therapy had no Pilates background and vice versa. I needed to educate the clients on the foundational principles of Pilates and how they align with the principles of physical therapy. Once the patients understood the basic overlap of these principles, I was able to transition between traditional physical therapy and Pilates techniques during their treatment sessions.
Pilates is unique in that it focuses on eccentric muscle strengthening which is vital to injury prevention.
What advice would you give to other physical therapists considering adding Pilates to their treatment repertoire?
I would advise any physical therapy interested in Pilates to start taking classes and find a high-quality instructor training course. Similarly to Physical Therapy school working with different body types, shapes and sizes provides a deep understanding of basic Pilates exercises and movements. Going through an instructor training course gives the educational background and hands on experience needed to appropriately apply Pilates to your treatment repertoire.
Where do you see the future of Pilates and physical therapy heading? Are there trends or developments you’re excited about?
I am beyond excited to see professional athletes getting into Pilates! I hope the trend of NFL and MLB athletes doing Pilates continues to grow. There is a stigma that Pilates is only for women or dancers; this is just not the case. Pilates was created by a man for all individuals. I am developing a continuing education course specifically for licensed Physical Therapists that will provide education on foundational Pilates movements and how these can be applied to your current patients. My goal with this course is to promote Pilates within the physical therapy community. g
Photo by Gratz
STUDIO SPOTLIGHT:
Lacey Hall, the owner of Peninsula Pilates takes a moment to tell us about her Studio!
By PilatesStyle Magazine
We aim to make everyone feel like they’ve discovered a hidden gem in the heart of Palos Verdes.
What inspired you to open your own Pilates studio, and why did you choose Palos Verdes as your location?
Palos Verdes is my hometown, and I was inspired by a desire to reconnect with the community that raised me. I wanted to prove to myself that I could build a successful business doing something I love—Pilates— while creating a space that fosters health and wellbeing for others.
How would you describe the vibe and philosophy of your studio? What makes it unique compared to others?
Our studio prioritizes the client experience in every detail, from the warm atmosphere to the thoughtful design. We aim to make everyone feel like they’ve discovered a hidden gem in the heart of Palos Verdes. Welcoming energy and comfort are at the core of what we offer, ensuring each visit is an uplifting and enjoyable experience.
What was the biggest challenge you faced when starting your business, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge was wearing all the hats— teaching every class, managing every client, and learning the ropes of running a business all at once.
It was a steep learning curve, but I embraced the philosophy of “failing forward” and grew quickly through those experiences. Over time, I’ve built an incredible team of instructors, which has allowed me to focus more on the business side of things and continue evolving.
What trends or shifts are you seeing in the Pilates world right now, and how are you adapting to them?
Pilates is blending with other areas of fitness and gaining mainstream appeal, which I think is fantastic! Joseph Pilates himself celebrated movement and innovation, so this evolution feels natural. While I enjoy exploring new approaches, I’m committed to deepening my understanding of Pilates’ foundational principles and the “why” behind the practice. Staying rooted in its origins helps me offer an authentic and effective experience to my clients.
As an entrepreneur, how do you balance managing your studio, teaching, and staying creative?
Balance is always a work in progress! Some days I manage well, and other days I simply focus on showing up and giving my best effort. My passion for Pilates and the people I serve keeps me motivated to keep finding that balance.
What advice would you give to someone looking to transition from being a Pilates instructor to owning their own studio?
Owning a studio is not a “next step” from being an instructor—it’s a completely different career path within the Pilates world. Instructing offers flexibility, creativity, and personal connection with clients, while studio ownership requires commitment to managing a business, leading a team, and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. If you feel drawn to that challenge and are willing to put in the time, it can be deeply rewarding.
If you could work with one celebrity or public figure to introduce them to Pilates, who would it be and why?
I’m incredibly lucky to work with amazing people every day, and I cherish the connections I’ve made with my clients. That said, I’d love to train Zooey Deschanel because she seems fun, relatable, and creative—and I secretly think we’d make great friends! g
Spend some time really thinking about how you’d like to stand out, and then go for it!
10 QUESTIONS WITH CHAD BOARDMAN:
The Pilates Truck
By PilatesStyle Magazine
1. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind creating a mobile Pilates studio and how the idea of The Pilates Truck came to life?
After teaching for almost 20 years, I wanted to open my own studio, and found myself thinking about how I could do things a little differently- you know, what would set me apart from other studios. Food trucks had become quite popular around that time, and I thought, what about a Pilates Truck?? Los Angeles is so spread out and difficult to get around, so the idea of a mobile studio started to make a lot of sense. When I mentioned the idea to a then client of mine, she said, “Chad, the hardest part is getting to you… if you came to me, I would never cancel!!” And, at that, I knew I was on to something.
After that, I started the development process and dug in to what the realization of this idea would look like. It was a fun process, and other than the construction of the exterior, we did most everything ourselvesflooring, mirrors, website- for which I actually did my own photo shoot. That was super fun… I hired two instructor friends to be my models and did all the photography myself!
2. What was it like working during the pandemic? How did the Pilates truck help you stay connected with clients during such a challenging time?
Surprisingly, it was great! At a time when studios were still closed and we were limited to working out via Zoom, this created an opportunity to safely connect and work out on the equipment again- in a private, safe environment. The doors and windows were all open to create an indoor/outdoor space, and thus very safe. And, I of course followed strict cleaning protocol. My clients LOVED it, and the business actually grew a LOT during that time.
3. Driving around Beverly Hills sounds exciting— what’s the most memorable experience you’ve had trained a client at their home?
I’d say one of the coolest things- unexpected at that- is that I’ve developed relationships with neighborhoods and the people in them. I meet so many people before and after sessions… I have actually been able to introduce several neighbors to each other, and pick up many new clients! I also once had a Hollywood tour bus stop and point us out!
4. How does a session in your Pilates truck differ from a session in a traditional studio? Do clients get the same experience?
The studio is completely outfitted with all the classical Pilates equipment, so sessions are as complete as in a traditional studio. What I offer uniquely is the private space, which is quite beautiful, and when the weather is nice, with the doors open, clients can work out alfresco if they like, and that is pretty awesome. And, of course, the convenience of me coming to your door!
5. What’s the biggest challenge of running a mobile Pilates studio, and how do you overcome it?
Los Angeles is large and very spread out. My biggest challenge has definitely been getting around the city to see clients in very different areas. How I’ve overcome it is by being strategic about building the business within a reasonable area, so that drive times and logistics become very manageable.
6. With your truck being such a unique concept, how do you find new clients, and how do they usually react to this idea when they first hear about it?
Most of my new clients actually find me- either when they’re out walking in their neighborhood, or see me driving around town, they reach out and ask questions. “is this what I think it is?”…I get that a lot! People are very excited when they learn of the concept and how it works
7. What’s a typical day like for you? How many houses do you visit, and how far are you willing to drive to bring Pilates to your clients?
Typically, I’ll see 4-5 clients in a day, depending on logistics. Sometimes I’m able to see more than one client in a single location if they live within a short walking distance of each other. My area ranges basically from Brentwood to the Beverly Hills flats, from Mulholland down to Olympic.
8. What equipment do you have on board, and how did you choose what to include in such a compact space?
I am fully-equipped, with a Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Ladder Barrel, Spine Corrector and an assortment of props. I worked with the dimensions and layout to figure out how I could get the most in, while keeping it comfortable and functional… and I think I’ve done a great job!
9. What advice would you give to other instructors looking to adapt their services in creative ways, like going mobile?
Spend some time really thinking about how you’d like to stand out, and what’s needed or missing in the industry… and then go for it!
10. Where do you see the Pilates truck in five years? Do you dream of expanding the fleet or franchising this concept?
I absolutely want to expand the fleet! I’ve had such an overwhelmingly positive response to this, I really see its future, and it’s exciting. I’m working on franchising opportunities currently, so to any instructors or entrepreneurs who might be interested, reach out to me and we can discuss the opportunities! g
