Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberely Simonetti.
Kimberely, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I needed a way to keep my body, mind and emotional well-being in check on a daily basis. Traction was proving extremely beneficial to my lower back and hip issues as well and stimulating the organs & kidney, relieving joint pain, detoxing the body and lymphatic system. This soft cloud-like aerial fabric that I was using for traction was also perfect for incorporating stretching and strength training. It was like a magic carpet ride I needed to share it with others. This is how I created Up Flying Yoga. I put together an hour regime using much of the traditional yoga and pilates practices that have been proven scientifically beneficial. I incorporated breathwork and meditation, core stability, inversions and stretching. I started with two classes a week. The classes filled up immediately. I knew I wasn’t alone in this desire to hang upside down. I added more classes and designed a core and arm based cardio workout as well. I divided the workouts into two categories; Flying Yoga and Fly Dance.
The clients were attending both. I was being interviewed by Dance Nation, MSN, Yoga Journal, NewBeauty, Forbes. Up Flying Yoga was mentioned on UsWeekly and TV shows started approaching. I brought on more instructors. I built teacher training manuals describing every move, the progression of the practice and the science backing the purpose of each movement in the classroom. We now offer seven classes a day, seven days a week. I have a wonderful team that helps me bring this holistic form of health and well-being to the community. I’m incredibly proud of the positive response and how this has helped so many people in so many different ways. I now offer trainings around the globe spreading Up Flying Yoga wings even further.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Business is never easy. Juggling so many hats is something I’m always reorganizing, re-planning and trying to find better ways to make it easier. I built this business to help people stay centered so I know how important is for me to work hard on balance. Each Up Flying Yoga class begins with meditation, breathwork and well-being. If there is a day that isn’t going my way, I’ve been able to find those struggles relatable to others. I incorporate the message, “allow challenges to help you grow”. It seems every day is a learning experience in business and in life. I’ve learned a lot. I have a lot to learn. I think the classes have improved because of every obstacle that has presented itself in front of me.
Up Flying Yoga – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Up Flying Yoga is where you go to hang upside down. You are on a fabric that suspends from the ceiling. It closes to a little rope and expands to 9 feet wide. We can sit inside, nap inside and hang outside. We decompress, ward off ailments; release toxins, stimulate the thyroid, parathyroid, and the metabolism. Get oxygen and blood flow to our brain. As soon as we go upside down, we lower our heart rate and blood pressure. We’re able to relax every muscle while upside down to help decompress the spine, relieve back and neck pain. Our equipment is installed by the same who have rigged aerial equipment for Cirque du Soleil. We offer a safe, exciting and holistic way to health and wellness that keeps you coming back.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success in business is interesting. We have to keep our prices competitive to get more clients in our doors. We have to encourage continual education to keep instructors knowledgeable. We keep the classes challenging so our clients can see growth. If a client comes saying they do not like meditation, it’s our jobs to change their minds. Our job is to get everyone the best experience to help them grow. Our job is to keep our clients happy in mind and body. Health and well-being is an everyday practice. With everyone’s busy schedule, we have to offer the most benefits in a small amount of time. We want everyone to have personal growth even in a group class. We have to charge competitive rates to get the clients in the door and allow them to continue their practice while earning enough to support the instructors and stay in business. All this while working our best at being the best. It’s a tall order. Success is through all these challenges and all these accomplishments.
Pricing:
- Single class rate $35
- Personal training session $90
- Membership discounts available
Contact Info:
- Address: Up Flying Yoga 11101 Ventura Blvd Studio 6 Studio City CA 91604
- Website: UpFlyingYoga.com
- Phone: 3108930941
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: instagram.com/upflyingyoga
- Facebook: facebook.com/upflyingyoga
- Twitter: twitter.com/upflyingyoga
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/up-flying-yoga-studio-city
- Other: vimeo.com/upflyingyoga
Suggest a story: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
