Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney James Clark
Hi Courtney James, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Ever since I can remember I was drawn to the arts. I started classical ballet at the age of 2 and was never shy performing for an audience. I have great memories of things like narrating my birthday party to our video camera, acting out a scene from earlier in the day for my family, or dancing to the beat of whatever music was playing in the house. At 13, when most of us were at our most awkward, my Mom introduced me to Pilates. I took to it immediately. Pilates gave me more body control and awareness in the most positive way. It added to my strength as a dancer and taught me to feel where my movements were coming from in my body.
As an actor, Pilates has helped me not only in staying fit and flexible, but having control over how each character I play holds themselves physically. Understanding how posture and movement can express emotions in a scene helps me better portray to an audience what the character is feeling.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I truly believe that no road worth taking is always smooth. In my acting career, I’ve had many proud moments. I’ve also been so close to life-changing opportunities only to have things go another way. I continue to show up consistently and do the work, though, because that’s what I can control. The bumps will come but as long as you stay present and follow what excites you, you’re golden baby.
It’s the same with Pilates. I am constantly learning and adding my own spin to things. If I’m teaching a private client in their home or a class in a studio, I incorporate functional movements to the beat of great music. My clients often tell me after a session that they had so much fun they forgot they were working out. Having such a direct hand in making others feel good about themselves is incredibly rewarding.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
When coming up with the concept for Posh Pop Pilates, I was inspired by my love of pop music and supermodels of the 90s including Christy Turlington, Naomi Campbell, and Cindy Crawford who had her own workout video called “Shape Your Body.” Cindy had fun, showed off her personality and connected with her audience. Those supermodels of the 90s had a way of being glamorous, rebellious and approachable all at the same time. I believe Pilates should be fun and accessible to the seasoned pro, an intimidated first-timer, and everyone in between. With Posh Pop Pilates, my Patreon subscribers feel empowered and supported in their workouts from the comfort of their own home with little to no equipment.
As an actor, one of my proudest moments was getting a call from my agent saying Steven Spielberg approved my audition tape for Jurassic World. I also got to work with one of my heroes, Jennifer Aniston, on the Morning Show. She was an absolute joy! Those experiences were a dream come true, but I appreciate every role I book. Whether in a commercial, web series, TV show, or movie, I’m getting paid to do what I love, and that means the world to me.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up in New Orleans, I was exposed to a variety of art, culture, and music. I was a confident kid who always marched to the beat of my own drum and was encouraged by my family to let my little freak flag fly. It was instilled in me to follow my happiness, leave the world a better place than how you found it, and the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
I was always involved in the arts. Traveling with a ballet company, performing in plays with the talented theatre program, watching live music, or going to an art museum were common weekend activities for me growing up. I loved all of it.
Acting was always a passion of mine, and I knew from an early age that I would pursue it as a career. I knew if I set my mind to it, worked hard, and let my individuality shine through, I could achieve anything. I’m grateful to my family for encouraging that little girl dressed as Snow White every time we went to the grocery store to always be herself. To listen to her sing the same Backstreet Boys song 8 times in a row, and let her dance in the rain at Jazz Fest. That support gave me the confidence to move across the country and pursue my dreams. And I still like to dress up, I just call it “fashion” now.
Pricing:
- Patreon – Athletic Mat Pilates – $12/month
- New videos every month
- Full access to my library of short and full length mat workouts
- Direct message access to me through Patreon for questions and advice.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.CourtneyJamesClark.com
- Instagram: @courtjclark @poshpoppilates
- Other: https://patreon.com/PoshPopPilates
Image Credits
Bob Turton Photography
Erik Scherb
Nicholas Walker
