Today we’d like to introduce you to Tara Kalson.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started practicing Pilates in my home state of Rhode Island over ten years ago. I incorporated the movement seamlessly into my life as my “regular fitness regimen” and quickly noticed that I was different than most students. I didn’t want to just DO the work, get through the hour… and then move on feeling amazing with my now strengthened and lengthened body. I wanted to know how and why this method worked. I wanted to actually learn to teach this extraordinary “thing” called Pilates so that I could share all of those “hows” and whys” with anyone else that was interested too.
I eventually decided that it was time to advance my love of Pilates to a professional level and entered the most comprehensive and definitive international Pilates educational program of its kind: The Fletcher Pilates Program of Study. I traveled between Florida and California regularly for a number of years to study with world-renowned Pilates Teachers and dancers until I earned my Teaching Certificate at the top of my class. I have been teaching passionately ever since.
My commitment to consistently improving both my own personal practice and my clients’ experiences motivates me to continue to study with my various mentors across the country. I sincerely love what I do… assisting my students to feel better, move better, obtain better mobility – and to literally change their bodies every day. My goal is to help people come to the realization that Pilates isn’t just another exercise. It is a way of life. Our bodies crave this combination of strength and mobility.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I’m not sure that any road which actually leads somewhere worthwhile is “bump-free”. One of my biggest challenges and hurdles is truly my own passion for Pilates. I just want to TEACH what I love. The “business’ side of things doesn’t come as naturally to me. But I understand that it is extremely important for me to “know” every crevice of my studio. I believe it is important to have the ability (if needed) to accomplish all tasks related to running the business. From changing a lightbulb to maintaining the equipment to creating profit and loss statements; and everywhere in between. I’m also a “go with your gut” type of person. That attitude doesn’t; work for everyone but if something feels right, I try to not worry too much about what others are doing around me. – and I “go” with it.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about BODYMAX Pilates – what should we know?
I own a Pilates studio located in Peachtree Corners. I teach my students/clients to move their bodies and to create pliable muscles, and more flexible bodies every day. I refer to it as a “Boutique Studio” and utilize somewhat of an unofficial tagline: “Small by Choice, Not by Chance”. While I offer private sessions on traditional Pilates equipment, I also offer small group classes and the option of ‘by appointment’ duet or triplet sessions.
Because my equipment classes are 3 people maximum and my mat classes are 10 people maximum the environment is uniquely comfortable, encouraging and personalized. I get to know my students’ bodies and introduce them to various types of Pilates-based movement that best compliments their lifestyle. The feedback from my clients indicates that my original vision for the studio when I opened in July of 2017 – is coming to fruition. The studio is a haven where people of quite literally every shape, age and size come to move their bodies and “wake up” dormant muscles that they didn’t know existed. Pilates is a safe method of movement; in this case particularly due to the small environment.
So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
In my opinion: (whether you are man or woman) successful people don’t usually wait around, positioning themselves for an opportunity to come zooming their way. You have to create opportunity. Demand it. Do your research, know your product, and believe that your opinion and voice is just as loud and clear, or as quiet and muffled – as you want it to be.
Pricing:
- Introductory Pkg of Private Sessions (3): $180
- Single Equipment Class: $35
- Single Mat/Barre Fusion Class: $20
Contact Info:
- Address: 5260 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Suite 400
Peachtree Corners, GA 30071 - Website: www.bodymaxpilates.com
- Phone: 470-321-5511
- Email: tara@bodymaxpilates.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tara_kalson/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bodymax-Pilates-251286735387945/
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/tara.kalson.1
Image Credit:
Bodymax Pilates3
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