Conversations with Lulu

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lulu.

Hi Lulu, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve been a dancer my whole life, and movement has always been my language. I have been teaching since 2005 , but it wasn’t until 2021—during the height of the pandemic—that I launched my own Pilates business out of my backyard with just a few reformers and a lot of heart.

What started as a creative way to stay connected grew from “West Adams Pilates ” into **Common Ground Pilates**, now with three studio locations across Los Angeles and Long Beach. My mission is simple: create inclusive, affordable spaces where people can move, heal, and feel at home in their bodies.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Has it been smooth? Definitely not. Building this business as a single, sole owner has been equal parts rewarding and relentless. I’ve worn every hat—from instructor, admin, designer, anitor, bookkeeper to emotional support person—and I’ve learned something new every single day, sometimes the hard way.

There have been software meltdowns, unexpected studio repairs, staffing challenges, and moments where I wasn’t sure how I’d make it through to the next day. It’s a customer facing job and having tough personal days isn’t easy as an instructor. Growing from a backyard setup to multiple studios hasn’t been linear or easy, but it’s been deeply meaningful.

The challenges have stretched me in ways I didn’t expect, but I wouldn’t trade it. I’m incredibly grateful for the community that’s formed around this work. The support, the stories, and the people who keep showing up—those are the things that keep me going.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I run Common Ground Pilates, a community-driven studio with three locations across LA and Long Beach. We offer reformer Pilates, sculpt classes, sound baths, and workshops, plus cat and dog mat pilates workshops where we donate part of the proceeds to the spcaLA and Friends of Normie. We are more than fitness, we offer a space to feel grounded, seen, and supported.

What sets us apart is the heart behind it. We’re intentionally small, inclusive, and rooted in real connection. You don’t have to look or move a certain way to belong here.

I’m especially proud of opening our newest space on my own. It was important to do it right—and to rebrand under a name that reflects what we truly are: more than just Pilates. We’re about community, healing, and creating common ground.

What matters most to you?
Community matters most to me—especially in today’s world. In a time when the political climate can feel heavy and divisive, I wanted to create spaces that feel like a safe haven. A place where our friends, neighbors, and clients from all backgrounds can show up, breathe, and feel supported—just as they are.

Diversity isn’t just a buzzword here—it’s the foundation. Our studios are intentionally inclusive, welcoming people of all races, sizes, identities, and experience levels. What we’re doing goes beyond Pilates. For that one hour, clients can step away from the chaos and into self-care. That matters. That’s what keeps me going.

Pricing:

• New clients 3 classes for $77
• Memberships starting at $115

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.commongroundpilates.net
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/commongroundpilates/

Image Credits
Branndon Brown, Mattie Westbrouk