We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jacqueline Hinton a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Jacqueline , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Setting up an independent practice is a daunting endeavor. Can you talk to us about what it was like for you – what were some of the main steps, challenges, etc.
Starting my own Pilates studio, Good Body Pilates, was a journey that required equal parts passion, perseverance, and planning. I had been teaching at the studio for over a decade before purchasing it in January 2023, so I knew the inner workings well. But transitioning from instructor to owner brought a whole new set of responsibilities and challenges.
The first big step was making the decision to take over the business. That required a mental shift- recognizing that I wasn’t just stepping into a role, but taking full ownership of the studio’s future. From there, I had to dive into the operational aspects: securing financing, updating contracts, negotiating leases, and ensuring I had a clear vision for the studio. Hiring and retaining the right team was another key focus, as I wanted to maintain the high standards the clients were accustomed to while bringing in new energy.
One of the biggest challenges was managing the unexpected. The transition from employee to business owner is complex. There were moments when I had to quickly learn about payroll systems, liability insurance, and marketing-things I hadn’t directly dealt with as an instructor. My goal was to not only continue providing excellent Pilates instruction but also to develop a strong business foundation. I leaned heavily on mentorship from my business coach and sought advice from other studio owners to avoid common pitfalls.
If I could do anything differently, I would have focused earlier on building a more robust marketing plan. Attracting new clients and staying top-of-mind in a competitive market like Santa Monica is essential. We were fortunate to win the award for ‘Most Loved Pilates Studio in Santa Monica,’ but I’ve learned that ongoing community engagement and online presence are key to keeping momentum.
My advice to anyone starting their own practice is to plan as much as you can, but be ready to adapt and learn on the fly. Surround yourself with mentors and a support system who can guide you through the inevitable challenges. Most importantly, stay connected to why you started in the first place. For me, it was always about helping people feel stronger and more confident in their bodies, and that’s what has driven me through the ups and downs.
Owning your practice is incredibly rewarding, but it takes grit and resilience. Keep your passion at the center, and the rest will follow!
Jacqueline , 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?
My name is Jacqueline Hinton, and I’m the proud owner of Good Body Pilates Studio in Santa Monica. Pilates has been a huge part of my life for nearly two decades, both as a professional dancer and a Pilates instructor. My journey into Pilates started through my dance background—I earned a BFA in Dance from the University of Texas at Austin, and as a dancer, I was always searching for ways to strengthen my body and prevent injuries. Pilates was the perfect complement to my training.
After teaching for many years and seeing how Pilates transformed my clients’ lives, I knew I wanted to do more than just teach—I wanted to create a space that felt like a second home for people looking to improve their physical health and well-being. In January 2023, after 13 years working at the studio, I took over ownership of Good Body Pilates, and I’m thrilled to continue building this community.
At Good Body Pilates, we offer personalized and group Pilates sessions designed to meet the needs of clients at all levels. From private Reformer sessions to group Reformer classes, our services focus on improving strength, flexibility, balance, and overall body awareness. Our approach is all about creating lasting, functional movement patterns that enhance your daily life, whether you’re an athlete, performer, or simply looking to feel better in your body.
What sets us apart is our deep commitment to individualized attention. Every body is different, and we believe in tailoring each workout to the specific needs of our clients. Whether someone is recovering from an injury, preparing for a performance, or just starting their fitness journey, we’re there to guide them every step of the way.
One thing I’m especially proud of is that we were recently voted Santa Monica’s Most Loved Pilates Studio. This recognition means so much because it comes directly from the community. It reflects the care and dedication we put into each client’s experience, and it’s a reminder of why we do what we do.
Something else that sets Good Body Pilates apart is a product I created called *Good Citizen*—the Pilates world’s first personal Pilates loops. These loops are designed for hygiene and convenience, giving clients a personal touch to their practice. Innovation like this, along with a commitment to excellence, is what keeps us moving forward.
For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that our studio is a place where everyone is welcome, and where you’ll be supported in reaching your health and fitness goals, whatever they may be. Whether you’re looking for a Pilates practice to challenge you, a place to recover and rebuild, or simply a community where you can feel empowered in your body, we’ve got you covered.
Above all, I’m driven by the belief that Pilates is for everyone. It has the power to transform lives, and I’m honored to be a part of that transformation for so many people. Whether you’re new to Pilates or experienced, I’m excited to welcome you to our studio!
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
I believe my reputation in the market has been built on a foundation of authenticity, consistency, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of my clients. First and foremost, I’m passionate about what I do. As a professional dancer and Pilates instructor with nearly 20 years of experience, I understand the importance of a balanced and functional body, and I bring that knowledge into every session I teach. My goal has always been to make sure clients leave feeling stronger, more aligned, and more confident in their bodies, and I think that personal investment in their success is what resonates with people.
Consistency has also played a huge role. Over the years, I’ve developed strong relationships with clients by providing high-quality instruction and a supportive environment. Whether clients are coming to us for private sessions or group classes, they know they’re going to get a personalized experience tailored to their specific needs. I think clients appreciate that we don’t offer a one-size-fits-all approach—we meet them where they are, and that level of care builds trust.
Word-of-mouth has been powerful for us, too. When clients feel valued and see real results, they naturally tell their friends and family. Our reputation as Santa Monica’s “Most Loved Pilates Studio” is a reflection of that client satisfaction and community support. People in the area know we’re a place where they can come and feel like part of a family, not just another face in the crowd.
Lastly, I think my reputation has grown because of the way I integrate my personal experience as a dancer into the studio. I understand the demands that physical performance places on the body, and I’m able to apply that expertise to help a wide variety of clients—from athletes and performers to people recovering from injuries or simply looking to feel stronger in their everyday lives.
In short, I believe that my genuine love for Pilates, coupled with a client-first approach, innovative thinking, and consistent high-quality service, has helped me build a strong reputation in a competitive market.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
The most effective strategy for growing my clientele at Good Body Pilates Studio has been a blend of community engagement, personalized service, and word-of-mouth referrals.
Being involved in the local Santa Monica community has been essential. I make it a priority to participate in local events, support neighborhood businesses, and collaborate with others who align with our mission. This not only builds awareness of our studio but also strengthens our connection to the community. By engaging with local groups and attending events, we remain top of mind for people seeking Pilates or fitness options.
Word-of-mouth has proven to be one of our most powerful growth drivers. When clients experience something positive, they naturally share it with friends, family, and colleagues. Our referral program, which rewards clients with complimentary classes when they refer someone new, has been key in fostering this organic growth. But beyond just the program, the personalized, high-quality experience clients have at our studio—whether in private sessions or group classes—encourages them to spread the word.
Tailoring experiences to the unique needs of each client has also contributed significantly to our growth. Whether someone is recovering from an injury, training for a specific event, or simply looking to improve their overall fitness, we provide customized sessions that meet their individual goals. This approach not only helps our clients feel supported but also encourages long-term relationships and high client retention. Happy clients become repeat clients and often refer others to us.
Sharing client testimonials and success stories has been another great way to grow our base. When potential clients hear real stories about how Pilates has improved someone’s health, strength, or mobility, it builds credibility and trust. Showcasing these stories through social media and on our website helps potential clients envision the positive changes Pilates could bring to their own lives.
While acquiring new clients is important, keeping them is just as crucial. Ensuring each person feels valued and supported throughout their journey with us has fostered long-term loyalty. From personalized check-ins to celebrating milestones, creating a nurturing environment is key to keeping clients engaged and coming back. This focus on exceptional service helps us build a loyal community that continues to grow through organic, personal recommendations.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.goodbodypilates.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodbodypilates/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goodbodypilates
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/90495747/admin/dashboard/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/good-body-pilates-studio-santa-monica-4?utm_campaign=search_listing&utm_medium=partnership&utm_source=yahoo
Image Credits
Jacqueline Hinton Headshot- Dana Patrick
All others- Good Body Pilates Studio