Customer Spotlight: In Movement Pilates
Last Updated on 13 April, 2026
Expanding a Gyrotonic-focused rental studio into a larger, community-centered Pilates space with group classes, private sessions, and a branded client experience.
1. Introducing the Business
In Movement Pilates is a California-based studio led by longtime instructor Gina Chai, who has been teaching Pilates and a movement method called Gyrotonic for about 20 years. The business began as a simple, hands-off rental model: independent instructors and renters booked time, paid rent, and taught their own clients. Now, Gina and her partner are taking a big step forward, moving from a “360 square foot space into a 1,016 square foot space” and using the extra room to broaden what they offer.
With the expansion, In Movement Pilates plans to grow its Gyrotonic equipment rentals while also adding reformers and “try our hand at group Pilates classes.” Just next door, complementary businesses like yoga and fitness training are coming together to create what Gina calls “a real community,” giving clients more ways to move and connect under one neighborhood wellness hub.
2. Why They Chose WellnessLiving
As the business evolved from straightforward rentals to a more structured studio model, Gina knew their current software setup wouldn’t scale. They had been using SimplyBook, but with a larger schedule, more services, and new operational requirements, it was time for a change. In Gina’s words: “I hate that software anyway.”
A key reason WellnessLiving stood out was the flexibility they needed to manage rentals and bookings in a way that matches how their business actually runs, especially with California’s strict rules around contractors and employees. Gina was looking for a way to keep contractor-based rentals organized without making it appear like renters were studio employees in the booking flow. She was drawn to the idea that they could book and charge in a way that “doesn’t read like it’s a… teacher. Like, this person is renting,” and instead have a simple rental fee attached to the reservation.
Just as importantly, they’re starting fresh with WellnessLiving, with no data import needed. For Gina, that clean start is a benefit, making it easier to set up the system intentionally from day one.
3. What They’re Building
With WellnessLiving, In Movement Pilates is laying the foundation for a more polished client and staff experience as they open the expanded studio. The plan includes setting up multiple service types, including private appointments, group classes, special events, and space/equipment rentals. They also want the platform to support clear scheduling and self-serve booking as their new offerings come online.
From the start, Gina is prioritizing the essentials that make day-to-day operations smoother:
- enabling client ID automation
- configuring business policies
- putting a liability waiver in place
- setting business hours
- getting SMS marketing underway through A2P registration
- preparing staff profiles with the bios and images
- branded app for clients
4. What Success Looks Like
Success for In Movement Pilates looks like a smooth transition into their larger space and a confident expansion into new revenue streams, without losing the simplicity that made their original rental model work. From there, the goal is to grow into a fuller schedule of private sessions and group reformer classes, while keeping rentals organized and compliant with local requirements.
For Gina, the win is a system that supports both sides of the business, rentals and studio programming, with clear booking workflows, easy payments for rental fees, and a branded app that helps establish their identity in the community as they grow into this next chapter.
Want to see how WellnessLiving can help your Pilates studio grow? Book a free, no-commitment demo today!
❓ Pilates Studio Client Experience and Growth FAQs ❓
Personalized instruction helps clients feel supported and understood. Tailored sessions can address specific goals or physical limitations. Studios that focus on individual attention often see better results. This approach builds trust and long-term loyalty.
A strong focus on holistic wellness can differentiate a studio. Combining movement with mindfulness creates a more complete experience. Unique offerings like specialized methods or therapies also help. Differentiation attracts the right target audience.
Small class sizes allow instructors to provide more personalized guidance. Clear progress tracking helps tailor support within group settings. Offering private sessions alongside classes adds flexibility. This balance improves both results and client satisfaction.
Pilates focuses on both physical strength and mental awareness. This combination improves overall well-being and client outcomes. Clients often value experiences that go beyond basic fitness. A holistic approach supports deeper engagement and retention.
Offering programs for both beginners and advanced clients increases accessibility. Specialized sessions can support rehabilitation or performance goals. Inclusive environments help clients feel comfortable starting at any level. This approach expands the potential client base.
