March 27, 2017

Meet Heather Leon of Sumbody in Santa Monica

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Leon.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Heather. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I have been a dancer my entire life, since the age of 4. My childhood was divided between academics and studying dance intensively: ballet, jazz and modern dance. I started performing early on and was in a dance company by the age of 12. I received my B.A. degree in Modern Dance Choreography from UCLA in 1990. It was during my undergraduate program that I first heard about Pilates from a graduate student in the dance department. After graduation, I was very fortunate to receive a scholarship for Pilates teacher certification with Romana Kryzanowska, direct disciple of Joseph Pilates.

Additionally, I spent over a decade attending continuing education workshops with Romana. In 1998 I opened my first studio in downtown Santa Monica, and relocated to my current space at 1831 Wilshire Blvd., in 2008. I opened my second location in Studio City, Ca in April 2015. My studios offer group classes, private training as well as comprehensive teacher training. My teacher training program is inspired by Romana’s teaching, with a commitment to uphold the classical original form of the Joseph Pilates Method. I also have been traveling to Japan over the past year, teaching workshops and will begin comprehensive teacher training programs in Tokyo in 2017.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Life always presents its challenges but I keep a positive mindset and understand that these challenges make us stronger and help to prepare us for the future. I too have faced challenges in building my business, but rather than go into all the details, I’d rather share that with determination, perseverance and passion, I have always been able to find solutions.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Sumbody – what should we know?
My business currently consists of 2 Pilates studios, one in Santa Monica and the second location in Studio City. Unlike other studios, we offer the classical Pilates technique on a scale which is difficult to find in Los Angeles. The Santa Monica location offers over 40 classes Mon-Sun with 9 slots open per class. The Studio City location, currently offers 20 classes per week, with 5 slots open per class. Both studios offer group classes taught in the traditional Pilates style. With so many variations of the Pilates Method being taught today, our clientele appreciates our commitment to traditional Pilates. We also offer private sessions and comprehensive teacher training.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Mentors have been very important on my path. To begin with, of course, Romana Kryzanowska has been a huge inspiration to me, as an exceptional teacher and example of excellence. Her commitment to and passion for the teachings of Joseph Pilates helped to keep the method alive today. And I have made it my mission to pass along the torch and to continue to educate and train potential Pilates instructors. Additionally, I have been fortunate to have several individuals who provided guidance and support during the more turbulent and challenging times!

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