How to Open a Pilates Studio: A Step-by-Step Guide for new Studio Owners
What to consider before you sign a lease, buy equipment, or open your doors.
Opening a Pilates studio is one of the most exciting and challenging steps in a instructor’s career. It’s where passion meets responsibility, creativity meets structure, and love for the method meets the realities of business ownership. While the dream may begin with beautifully spaced reformers and a loyal community, success depends on thoughtful planning long before the doors open.
Whether you’re transitioning from teaching to owning, or expanding an existing brand, here are the key considerations every prospective studio owner should reflect on.
1. Start With Your “Why”
Before leases, equipment, or branding, get clear on your purpose.
Why does your studio need to exist? Who is it for? What gap are you filling?
A strong “why” informs everything from your class offerings and pricing to the way clients feel when they walk through the door. Studios that thrive are built on intention, not imitation.
2. Know Your Market
Research is not optional. Understand:
Your local demographic
Existing studios and their offerings
Price points in your area
Demand for group, semi-private, or 1:1 sessions
Make sure you attend classes in your area as a client. Observe class sizes, pricing, programming, and client demographics. Notice what’s working and what feels missing.
Do your Google research and search for “Pilates studio near me” and note:
· How many studios appear
· Their class types and price points
· Reviews and recurring feedback themes
Google reviews often reveal gaps clients are actively talking about. Follow local studios on social media and pay attention to engagement levels, which classes sell out, and the questions clients are asking. This provides valuable insight into what truly resonates with the local community.
Where possible, review industry reports - and most importantly- speak to real people. There is also value in testing demand through pop-ups or short-term studio hire before committing long-term.
Ask yourself: What will make my studio different and valuable in this market?
3. Location Matters (But So Does Fit)
A great location balances visibility, accessibility, and affordability. High foot traffic isn’t always essential, but ease of parking, public transport, and safety are.
Equally important is the feel of the space. Ceiling height, natural light, acoustics, and layout all influence the client experience and your ability to deliver quality Pilates.
4. Choose Equipment Strategically
It’s tempting to buy everything at once, but smart studios scale intentionally.
Consider:
Who your clients are (rehab, general population, athletes)
How many people you want in a room
Maintenance, warranty, and supplier support
Remember that quality equipment is an investment in the longevity of your studio.
5. Build a Sustainable Business Model
Passion alone doesn’t pay rent.
Clarify:
Your pricing structure
Capacity and break-even point
Staffing model (employees vs contractors)
Timetable balance between group and private sessions
A sustainable studio protects both your finances and your energy.
6. Create Systems Early
Systems give you freedom. From day one, establish:
Booking and payment processes
Clear policies and client communication
Onboarding procedures for teachers
Consistent brand voice and standards
Strong systems allow you to grow without chaos.
7. Hire for Alignment, Not Just Skill
Great teachers are essential but so is cultural fit. Your team represents your studio values every time they step into the room.
Invest in education, mentoring, and clear expectations. A supported team creates a consistent client experience and reduces burnout - for everyone.
8. Don’t Underestimate Marketing
You don’t need to be loud- but you do need to be visible.
Build trust through:
Clear messaging
Educational content
Community engagement
Consistent online presence
Word of mouth is powerful, but it starts with people knowing you exist.
9. Plan for the Long Game
Opening day is just the beginning. Think ahead:
How will you retain clients?
How will you evolve your offerings?
What does success look like in 1, 3, or 5 years?
Studios that last are adaptable, reflective, and willing to evolve with the industry.
10. Remember: You’re Still a Pilates Professional
Ownership doesn’t mean abandoning the method. The most respected studios are led by owners who honour Pilates and are intentional about who they bring into their business.
Opening a Pilates studio is not about perfection, it’s about preparation.
With clarity, planning, and a strong connection to your purpose, your studio can become more than a space to move, it can be a place that truly supports both clients and teachers for years to come.
