Owner Ashleigh McDonald
- When did you start practicing Pilates and why?
I started around 15 years ago. I’ve never been a big fan of HIIT style workouts or a traditional gym setting so went in search of a different way to move my body and absolutely fell in love with pilates.
- How long have you been running a Pilates studio for?
Nearly 5 years.
- Why did you choose to open your own Pilates studio?
When COVID hit, I couldn’t return to my FIFO job in WA, and there were no places offering reformer Pilates in the Whitsundays. With no work, I decided to use the time to complete my Pilates training. I started teaching a few classes from home to see if there was interest and within just three months, I had outgrown my house, and the business has since expanded twice.
- What have you enjoyed the most about running a studio?
I love the freedom of making my own decisions around what feels right for myself and my family. I’ve been able to create a studio which I truly love stepping into and feel so passionate about.
- What have you found most challenging?
Being in a small town we have very limited instructors. In my postpartum period with my first born I needed to return to teaching much earlier than I was physically and mentally ready for to ensure the business could continue to run. Although an extremely difficult time in my life, I learnt many lessons from it.
- How long have you been affiliated with NPT?
Just over a year.
- How has this relationship helped you grow your business?
We’re lucky enough to have Katrina join us for an Education Day in March, bringing together a community of instructors and studio owners from North Qld. It will be the first time we’ve all come together, and we’re excited to build a strong, supportive community.
Principle Movement~ Ashleigh McDonald