Today we’d like to introduce you to Lulu.
Hi Lulu, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I opened my first Pilates studio in Los Angeles in 2021 with the intention of creating a welcoming, community-rooted space where people could feel strong and supported. What began as one small studio grew into multiple locations across Los Angeles and Long Beach. It quickly became about more than Pilates — we hosted breathwork and sound baths, dog and cat adoptions, cake decorating workshops, and neighborhood gatherings that blended movement with meaningful connection. We organized donation drives for the spcaLA after the Palisades fires and supported families impacted by ICE activity in LA. As the studio evolved into a place where wellness and community care intersect, we rebranded from West Adams Pilates to Common Ground Pilates — reflecting our foundation in community, grounding, and movement.
The next chapter unfolded organically. When one of my lead instructors, Jari Neumann, moved back home to Annapolis to be near her family, I chose to expand rather than lose that energy. We’re now opening a studio in downtown Annapolis with seven reformers, group classes, and a continued focus on community-centered events.
What started as one neighborhood studio has grown into a bi-coastal Pilates community — built on inclusivity, intention, and the belief that movement should feel like home.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I’ve navigated financial strain, lease negotiations, staffing challenges, legal challenges, and the steep learning curve of running multiple studios. One of the biggest shifts was stepping back from being the “face” of the studio and removing my ego from that role — allowing the brand to grow beyond me. I hire teachers who align with the vision, and sometimes that hasn’t worked out, but each experience has been a lesson in leadership and building something bigger than myself.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Common Ground Pilates is deeply personal to me because it was built from a desire to create the kind of space I wish more of us had — especially right now. Expanding to Annapolis was a leap of faith, but I felt strongly that people need places that feel steady, welcoming, and grounded. Our communities are navigating a lot, and sometimes what’s most powerful is having one hour where you can move your body, clear your mind, and feel supported.
We specialize in reformer Pilates, but what truly sets us apart is the feeling in the room. It’s warm, unpretentious, and genuinely kind. We focus on strong, intentional programming while making sure every client feels seen and safe. Alongside group classes and privates, we host workshops and community events that invite connection beyond the workout.
What I’m most proud of is that our brand stands for inclusivity and care. I want readers to know that when they walk into Common Ground Pilates — whether in California or Annapolis — they’re walking into a space where they can show up exactly as they are. No judgment. No pressure. Just movement, community, and a little extra love when it’s needed most.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up, I was the kid who liked to play “Banker.” I recently joked with my daughter that while other kids were playing house, I was filling out deposit slips and pretending to run transactions. I’ve always loved forms, systems, and the structure of how things work — which makes a lot of sense since I’m also a self employed bookkeeper that took a back seat to me running the studios.
At the same time, I’ve always had a creative streak. I’m a certified Pilates instructor. I was a burlesque producer for 10 years (also supporting the POC community and dancers of all sizes and ages) , and even have a cosmetology license, so I’ve never fit into just one box. I love that my brain holds both structure and creativity — the discipline to build something sustainable and the imagination to make it beautiful. There’s definitely a little ADHD sprinkled in there too, but I think that mix of drive, curiosity, and energy is exactly what allows me to juggle so many roles and bring ideas to life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.commongroundpilates.net
- Instagram: commongroundpilates
Image Credits
Extant Studios, Mattie W
