When you were training to become a Pilates instructor, the last thing on your mind was how to build your business after becoming certified. You were likely absorbed in learning, enjoying the immersion in something you are passionate about. But now that you've completed your training, it's time to turn your focus on how to make a living doing what you love. According to a 2015 report by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, there are over 8.5 million Pilates participants in the U.S. alone—this is a great time to get started. In this four-part series, we'll take you through some of the basic steps to building your business from the bottom up.
Mind-body exercise used to be perceived as reserved for the more 'zen' set of exercisers. However as the range of mindful movement programming continues to grow, so does its client base. From school-level athletes looking to improve their performance to older clients who want to regain lost mobility, people are seeking this type of modality to lead healthier, more active and mindful lives. Considering ways to cater to these growing populations can help expand your business.
Growing populations that look toward mind-body exercise to achieve their health and fitness goals include:
Elite Exercisers—From NFL and NHL athletes to mud runners to recreation league players, exercisers everywhere are taking note that mindful movement has the ability to significantly improve their game on and off the playing field.
New gym-goers—Those who are just being introduced or reintroduced to fitness should begin with mind mild to moderate workouts. Mind-body exercise is challenging, though gentle, and can often be far less intimidating than classes that use heavy weights or utilize a lot of choreography.
Injured/post-rehabilitation—Injured or post-rehab clients typically want to restore function and return to normal, daily activities and previous levels of functionality.
Pre- and Post-Natal—Many pre-natal clients engage in an active pregnancy to limit maternal weight gain, aid in prevention of gestational diabetes and improve psychological well-being whereas post-natal clients often want to redevelop the strength of the pelvic floor.
Overweight/obese—This category tends to experience compromised joints as a result of additional stress in addition to a limited range of motion. As this demographic continues to grow, so will the demand for suitable exercise options.
Active Aging—With a tendency to have higher levels of disposable income, members of this demographic often seek out low-impact, functional, private one-on-one training that makes day-to-day activities easier.
By simply integrating mindful movement into your studio, prospective clients who may have otherwise overlooked your facility now have a new reason to consider becoming a member or taking classes. The principles of Pilates and other mind-body programs have found their way into mainstream fitness with the overarching ideology of an intelligent and mindful approach to all forms of exercise.
We're here to help you, so get in touch to learn more about our ever-expanding educational programming and equipment line and diversify to expand your business.