Embracing Excellence: with Merrithew Equipment
Minah Shin’s journey with Blue Sky Pilates in Rhodes, NSW, Australia, began in 2018 with a single Merrithew reformer. From those humble beginnings, her studio has grown exponentially. Now, Blue Sky Pilates offers 80-100 classes per week, including 10 group classes, focusing primarily on private and semi-private sessions. Minah's dedication to quality and her clients' needs is evident in every aspect of her studio, especially in her choice of equipment.
"We truly appreciate the design and functionality of our Merrithew equipment. I like that it has strong spring tension with lots of different options. There are 3 different spring tensions on the Reformer; 25 per cent, 50 per cent, and 100 per cent. You can play with all these springs and create your desired level of spring tension. You can also use all 5 springs too. For example, you can do one spring at 25 per cent, one at 50 per cent, and three at 100 per cent or you can use one at 25 per cent, one at 50 per cent and one at 75 per cent. The ability to be really specific in my spring choice can make a difference in targeting the right muscles for the client, depending on their needs,” said Minah.
Minah's studio boasts a comprehensive range of Merrithew equipment, including seven reformers (5 SPX with the vertical frames, 1 SPX and 1 V2Max with the vertical frame), two Cadillacs, five barrels, five stability chairs, and numerous small props. This array of equipment enables Minah to offer tailored programs to her diverse clientele, ranging from teenagers to senior clients, and including pre- and post-natal clients.
Minah's love for Merrithew equipment dates back to her original training in Canada in 2015. "I first felt the Merrithew equipment when I did my original training in Toronto," she recalls. "It was a neutral grey, looked strong but cozy, and there were three different spring tensions which allowed me to work to my ability. The equipment was inviting."
Since then, Minah has worked in various studios but always returned to Merrithew. Her first purchase was facilitated by Troy at Leisure Concepts. “Troy, Mike and the team have been great to work with. They respond quickly and always give me the best delivery dates they can. Fast forward seven years and a bigger studio and I only use Merrithew equipment in my space. My clients know the Merrithew equipment is very different, very stable. It believe it is the best Pilates equipment available, and I refer my clients to purchase the same."
Minah's commitment to quality is further highlighted by her role as Merrithew STOTT PILATES® Instructor Trainer and hosting centre for STOTT Pilates training. She believes in educating students about the best equipment to instil confidence in utilising it in their studios.
"My favourite piece of equipment is the Cadillac," she shares. "It has a lot of surface area and is great for client rehabilitation. They need the bigger support. I can also use the spine corrector on it and do lots of hanging exercises. I also love the chairs. I always go for the classical black look, but I know you can purchase your upholstery in other colours too.”
Minah's dedication to maintaining her equipment is evident. "I have Merrithew equipment I bought that was 10 years old, and it's still great. It looks really good and holds up well. The equipment looks new. Once a week, I do a deep clean including the rails, and it still works so well. It's worth every cent to purchase Merrithew. It maintains well and still lasts. I hear lots of stories about cheap equipment, and there's no comparison."
The variety and adaptability of Merrithew equipment allow Minah to cater to the specific needs of her clients, ensuring each session is effective and enjoyable. "We teach teenagers to senior clients," Minah explains. "We teach them better posture and movement, to strengthen their muscles. We work with pre and post-natal clients, and all these clients benefit from the Merrithew equipment."
Her studio’s intimate group reformer classes, limited to five people per session, ensure personalised attention and a high-quality experience. "Our clients notice the difference," Minah says. "They like to stick with the privates, and the Merrithew equipment means we can create the right programming for them."
Minah's dedication to Merrithew equipment is not just about quality but also about safety. "I've had no safety issues," she says. "With my role as a STOTT training instructor, I also think it's important we educate the students on the best equipment so they feel more confident utilising it in the studio."
Her passion extends to her clients, whom she educates on the benefits of the equipment. "If you're looking to order, I'd suggest doing it at least three months in advance," she advises. "Always ask Mike for the best advice. The price is great for what you get. The service is excellent.”
Minah's journey with Merrithew equipment has been one of growth and success. From a single reformer to a fully equipped studio, her dedication to quality and her clients' well-being shines through. At Blue Sky Pilates, the Merrithew difference means every client receives the best possible experience in her studio.
Speak to Mike from Leisure Concepts Australia to find out which equipment is best for you and your studio. 1300 911 441.
Leisure Concepts supplies premium fitness equipment to industry professionals, focusing on complete service from the initial design concept to ongoing professional service and maintenance. They believe in strategy before price and suggest products that result in clients coming back time and time again. View their products here.
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Minah founded "Blue Sky Pilates," not just as a studio but as a center for Merrithew courses and workshops, addressing the limited availability of such offerings. Now a Merrithew, STOTT PILATES® Instructor Trainer, she facilitates convenient access to Merrithew programs for Australian students. Minah's commitment to learning resonates in her role as a dedicated knowledge sharer. Eager to share her accumulated wisdom, she thrives on guiding students.
