Spend some time really thinking about how you’d like to stand out, and then go for it!
1. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind creating a mobile Pilates studio and how the idea of The Pilates Truck came to life?
After teaching for almost 20 years, I wanted to open my own studio, and found
myself thinking about how I could do things a little differently- you know, what
would set me apart from other studios. Food trucks had become quite popular
around that time, and I thought, what about a Pilates Truck?? Los Angeles is so
spread out and difficult to get around, so the idea of a mobile studio started to
make a lot of sense. When I mentioned the idea to a then client of mine, she said,
“Chad, the hardest part is getting to you… if you came to me, I would never
cancel!!” And, at that, I knew I was on to something.
After that, I started the development process and dug in to what the realization of
this idea would look like. It was a fun process, and other than the construction of
the exterior, we did most everything ourselves- flooring, mirrors, website- for
which I actually did my own photo shoot. That was super fun… I hired two
instructor friends to be my models and did all the photography myself!
2. What was it like working during the pandemic? How did the Pilates truck
help you stay connected with clients during such a challenging time?
Surprisingly, it was great! At a time when studios were still closed and we were
limited to working out via Zoom, this created an opportunity to safely connect and
work out on the equipment again- in a private, safe environment. The doors and
windows were all open to create an indoor/outdoor space, and thus very safe. And,
I of course followed strict cleaning protocol. My clients LOVED it, and the business
actually grew a LOT during that time.
3. Driving around Beverly Hills sounds exciting—what’s the most memorable
experience you’ve had trained a client at their home?
I’d say one of the coolest things- unexpected at that- is that I’ve developed
relationships with neighborhoods and the people in them. I meet so many people
before and after sessions… I have actually been able to introduce several
neighbors to each other, and pick up many new clients! I also once had a
Hollywood tour bus stop and point us out!
4. How does a session in your Pilates truck differ from a session in a
traditional studio? Do clients get the same experience?
The studio is completely outfitted with all the classical Pilates equipment, so
sessions are as complete as in a traditional studio. What I offer uniquely is the
private space, which is quite beautiful, and when the weather is nice, with the
doors open, clients can work out al-fresco if they like, and that is pretty awesome.
And, of course, the convenience of me coming to your door!
5. What’s the biggest challenge of running a mobile Pilates studio, and how
do you overcome it?
Los Angeles is large and very spread out. My biggest challenge has definitely been
getting around the city to see clients in very different areas. How I’ve overcome it
is by being strategic about building the business within a reasonable area, so that
drive times and logistics become very manageable.
6. With your truck being such a unique concept, how do you find new
clients, and how do they usually react to this idea when they first hear about
it?
Most of my new clients actually find me- either when they’re out walking in their
neighborhood, or see me driving around town, they reach out and ask questions.
“is this what I think it is?”…I get that a lot! People are very excited when they learn
of the concept and how it works
7. What’s a typical day like for you? How many houses do you visit, and how
far are you willing to drive to bring Pilates to your clients?
Typically, I’ll see 4-5 clients in a day, depending on logistics. Sometimes I’m able
to see more than one client in a single location if they live within a short walking
distance of each other. My area ranges basically from Brentwood to the Beverly
Hills flats, from Mulholland down to Olympic.
8. What equipment do you have on board, and how did you choose what to
include in such a compact space?
I am fully-equipped, with a Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Ladder Barrel, Spine
Corrector and an assortment of props. I worked with the dimensions and layout to
figure out how I could get the most in, while keeping it comfortable and
functional… and I think I’ve done a great job!
9. What advice would you give to other instructors looking to adapt their
services in creative ways, like going mobile?
Spend some time really thinking about how you’d like to stand out, and what’s
needed or missing in the industry… and then go for it!
9. Where do you see the Pilates truck in five years? Do you dream of
expanding the fleet or franchising this concept?
I absolutely want to expand the fleet! I’ve had such an overwhelmingly positive
response to this, I really see its future, and it’s exciting. I’m working on franchising
opportunities currently, so to any instructors or entrepreneurs who might be
interested, reach out to me and we can discuss the opportunities!
