In early 2025, after seven years of teaching, I took a leap and opened my own studio. Some questioned the decision to open a small studio while larger gyms expand into reformer Pilates and franchise models continue to pop up everywhere. As the sole provider for my family, I was aware of the risks, but felt called to create a space grounded in intention and provide the experience I believe my clients deserve.
So what made me leave the safety of guaranteed classes and a steady paycheck? I realized that even though I have the best job in the world, I wasn’t feeling as energized as I used to. The studios where I taught were shifting toward a more corporate feel, and I missed the deep sense of community. Instead of letting myself get stuck, I decided it was up to me to create the change I wanted. Around that time, my friend and chiropractor, who had been asking me to join her for years, moved into a new space with room for Pilates. The timing finally felt right, so I made my move.
I launched with six group classes. They stayed empty for at least a month. When I left my previous job, I had half a dozen clients claiming they would come with me. That turned out to be just talk, and that’s okay. Instead of getting discouraged, I used that time for continuing education. I dove into myo-fascial release, pelvic floor health, S.I. joint dysfunction, and the importance of feet. That gave many new class ideas and helped me reframe my own teaching style.
I also had to figure out how to find clients. Of course I was busy creating a new website and posting on social media, but the big win was a business listing on Google Maps. Over 60% of my current clients found me on Maps. I have done zero advertising despite Google and Yelp’s persistence.
My studio setup is straightforward. I have two studio reformers, two EXO chairs, and two springboards, with classes capped at four. While I was taught how to teach circuit style, it did not work out quite as easily as it sounded. Depending on the class, we either switch equipment halfway through, teach the same exercises to the whole class but on different equipment, or each group stays on their equipment for the entire class but do different exercises. That last option is basically running two classes at once. It keeps me on my toes, but I love the challenge.
I’ve learned a ton along the way, and I’m still tweaking my business practices as I go.
First, I don’t try to compete with the big box gyms. They’re not my competitors. Our pricing won’t look the same, our schedules will be different, and that’s fine. I’m offering a different experience with group classes capped at four.
Second, boundaries with clients are crucial. Since I don’t have a front desk person or manager, I get all the calls and texts, often after 9:00 PM. At first, I answered right away because I didn’t want to lose business. But the problem with replying that quickly is that clients then want to chat, and they think 9:00 PM is fair game.
It’s easy to let the business run me instead of the other way around. Now that I’m aware of it, I wait to reply. I also wait to update the website, email clients, or post to social media. Recently, a trio wanted an early Saturday appointment. I held firm at 9:00 AM, and they booked anyway.
I celebrated one year in business this March, and I’m proud to say I now have ten group classes on the schedule, plus lunchtime privates and duos three days a week. New opportunities keep showing up, and I’m genuinely excited to see what year two brings.
Michelle Daily
Michelle Daily discovered Pilates as a way to manage lifelong back pain and became certified in 2018. After seven years of teaching, she opened Mind Body Pilates in Beaverton, Oregon in 2025. She believes Pilates is for every body and creates an empowering environment where all clients feel successful. She has extensive experience supporting individuals with neurological conditions (MS, aphasia), scoliosis, post-cancer recovery, and those in larger bodies — though her classes welcome clients of all levels and abilities. When not teaching, she plans elaborate annual international birthday trips (yes, there's a difference between a trip and a vacation) and advocates for social justice causes close to her heart. Website: www.MindBodyPilatesPDX.com | Instagram: @MindBodyPilates
