We were lucky to catch up with Dani Gelley recently and have shared our conversation below.
Dani, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How do you think about vacations as a business owner? Do you take them and if so, how? If you don’t, why not?
Absolutely! During my peak season, I teach 7 clients a day, 5 days a week, totaling 35 classes a week and 140 classes a month. In these sessions, I’m actively cueing, correcting form, sometimes demonstrating, and interacting with clients.
With that said, I make sure to take time off each year during my slowest month to enjoy with family and friends. During my absence, I rely on trusted staff to keep things running smoothly, confident in the processes and methods I’ve established. My goal is to avoid burnout and continue enjoying my work for as long as possible.
Dani, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I am originally from Rio de Janeiro and raised near Washington DC. In 2009, I left the corporate world to focus on my family. I discovered Pilates as a way to alleviate sciatica after having kids, and my practice grew alongside my passion for functional movement exercises.
Eager to share the benefits of Pilates, I completed 530 hours of comprehensive training at The Pilates Place Studio and became certified in 2014. I am a Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher with additional certifications in pre/post-natal Pilates, corrective exercise, and sports/injury modalities.
A decade later, I opened Align Pilates, a boutique studio in the heart of Coconut Grove, offering personalized reformer and tower classes. At Align, we pride ourselves on our personalized, therapeutic approach to Pilates. The main things I want potential clients and followers to know are:
-We tailor each class to meet individual needs, ensuring a unique and effective experience for everyone.
-Our focus is on quality of movement, prioritizing form and technique over quantity.
-We offer a supportive, intimate setting that encourages clients to overcome physical limitations and achieve their goals.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
When I first started as an instructor, I struggled with major imposter syndrome. It was challenging to stay confident with social media constantly showcasing young models-turned-trainers, making me question my own value and skills.
It took time for me to realize that my worth lies in my deep understanding of the body and how to move it effectively, rather than in superficial aspects. As I age in an industry that often prioritizes looks and body composition, this realization has become even more significant.
Now, in my 40s, my perspective on fitness has evolved. I believe exercise is about enhancing overall mental and physical health and supporting both my own and my clients’ long-term well-being.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
Although I initially started teaching as a hobby after my kids were born, my genuine passion for learning about and understanding the body is what sets me apart.
My commitment to preparing for each Pilates session, tracking my clients’ progress, and working together towards our goals is why my clients keep coming back. This isn’t just a job for me; it’s my passion.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.alignpilates.us
- Instagram: @alingpilates_miami
Image Credits
N3W LVL MIA
(610)-674-7670
[email protected]
@n3wlvlmia