- When did you start Pilates and why?
Sally was introduced to Pilates at the Australian Ballet School in 1997 as a part of their strength and conditioning program for young elite dancers. It wasn’t until she became injured that she discovered the rehabilitative benefits of Pilates in the Studio environment. Pilates became integral to her injury prevention and recovery regime throughout her dancing career.
Megan first embraced Pilates in 2003, shortly after the birth of her first child, when the practice was just beginning to make waves in the fitness industry. Initially, her focus was on reclaiming her post-baby body, but over time, her perspective changed. She fully appreciates Pilates’s profound impact on her overall well-being, from enhancing her fitness routine to supporting
aging and alleviating any ailments.
- How long have you been running a pilates studio for?
We have been running this studio together for 18 months, however Sally has been in business for the past 5 years .
- Why did you choose to open your own pilates studio,
After years of working in the Pilates industry, traveling the world, and starting a family, Sally’s priorities and focus naturally evolved. She craved stability, a fresh challenge, and the freedom of being her own boss. Sally successfully ran another Pilates business for 3.5. When the opportunity arose to combine forces with Megan they created The Pilates Village.
This was a monumental career shift for Megan, marking a complete transformation from a 30-year journey as a Primary school teacher. Pilates began as a passion project, a side gig that brought her joy, and working for Sally was an absolute delight. So, when the chance came to co-own a business with her, she seized it without hesitation.
- What would have enjoyed the most about running a studio?
The flexibility and variety we experience every day brings us immense joy, and we have to say, the absolute best part—apart from partnering with each other—are our incredible clients. Their unwavering support and dedication to showing up daily is our success’s lifeblood.
- What have you found most challenging?
What we find the most challenging is juggling the responsibilities of owning a studio, being a mum, an accountant, a social media goddess/guru, a fitness fanatic, and achieving the elusive work-life balance.
- How long have you been affiliated with NPT?
We have been affiliated with NPT ever since we opened as The Pilates Village in 2023.
- How has this relationship helped you grow your business?
This collaboration has allowed our business to grow. We’ve particularly enjoyed working closely with students in the studio, assisting them with their training while enhancing the Pilates experience for our clients. Our clients enjoy the opportunity to book additional sessions with students, allowing them to deepen their understanding of the Pilates Method in their bodies.
- What have you noticed about graduates from NPT?
NPT graduates have a noticeably higher level of training and experience, which makes them employable immediately after graduation. They have had a great deal of in-studio experience and this shows in their teaching. We have now employed two NPT graduates as part of our TPV teaching team!
The Pilates Village, Hunters Hill NSW~ Founders Megan Lee & Sally Derbyshire