May 8, 2017

Meet Christine Collins of Studio C Pilates & Fitness in Sherman Oaks

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Christine Collins.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Originally from East coast with stints in Florida, San Francisco, Boston etc. I first tried Pilates while in New York pursuing a career in fashion. I had read something in one of my fashion mags about this new celebrity workout so of course I had to try it. I’ve always loved to move. Tried everything; dancing, gymnastics, ice skating, yoga, hiking…. you name it! After one class, I was hooked. It challenged me in a way that I knew I had to know more… There were those cool looking machines to use too but way out of my budget since I was waiting tables at the time. They had a sign for teacher training and I knew this was for me. And plus, bonus- I won’t have to pay for my own workouts if I’m teaching! I borrowed some money and dedicated my time to the hours needed to fulfill a certification. So, instead of waiting tables I could now teach Pilates. My love for fitness and enjoying the process of actually helping people quickly changed my career path. I moved back to LA and started building up a clientele. Thanks to some amazing loyal clients and gaining lots of experience working in different studios I knew I had to branch out on my own. With lots of determination and a vision, it just all fell into place (Ok well. a few road blocks). I am so grateful that I get to do what I do and make a difference in someone’s life. Most recently I have found that working with the elderly is something I particularly enjoy. I love to hear…”I feel so much better” after a session. People often say the studio has a great energy. Love that.

Has it been a smooth road?
Definitely been some challenges! Starting a business with no capital while trying to build my credit. Leaving LA for a relationship and then coming back over 3 years later and starting over by building my clientele again. Working through my own injuries and having the confidence that all my time teaching gave me the know how in having my own business.

So, let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Studio C Pilates & Fitness story. Tell us more about the business.
The studio is very private and since I have a creative side I designed the space to be less clinical then most studios I’ve worked in. With inspirational quotes on the wall and other elements that give it a great vibe. There are a lot of studios that focus on large classes with a one size fits all mentality. Here the focus is on the individual clients and attention to keeping the classic Pilates principals intact. I’ve recently added a third reformer to have small classes and offer a lower price point to existing clients and bring new clients in who might not be able to afford the privates.

How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Well, I mentioned that most studios have big classes as the focus with new apps like class pass etc. The plan for me is to keep my studio private but offer the small classes. The trend seems to be a hybrid fitness approach and combining or expanding on that. I want to keep Pilates as the basis of my teaching but always learn and grow as an instructor. I have a certification in the Bar Method as well and am constantly taking classes and workshops.

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