Today we’d like to introduce you to Arlene Bass.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Arlene. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I learned about Pilates through the Chicago dance community in the mid 1990’s. I went down to Sante Fe (as there weren’t many training facilities back then), to complete my Pilates teacher training education. Seeing Pilates as a great transition from being a dancer and using my business degree background, I decided to open a small studio in 1998 in the north suburbs. The space was about the size of two closets back to back and I filled it with equipment and gave it my all. I started with 5 consistent clients. Through the years I’ve had multiple locations but focusing on one well run facility is where I believe we can provide the greatest environment, camaraderie and community. We’ve been in our current home for 8 years and last year extended into a suite next door to allow for more floor space.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Being an entrepreneur, there are always challenges along the way. Over the years Pilates has become more mainstream with larger corporate organizations shifting the market. Being a small independent studio, without the same resources, we’ve had to differentiate ourselves based on our longevity and individualized focus.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Body Evolve Pilates – what should we know?
Body Evolve, one of the first Pilates studios in the Chicago area, opened it’s doors in August 1998 in Highland Park. After 20 successful years, the studio attributes it’s popularity and excellent reputation to its high standards for knowledgeable instructors and dedicated client relationships. All teachers are certified Plates instructors with extensive backgrounds in dance, sports, orthopedics, and exercise.
Body Evolve is an Illinois Balanced Body® Authorized Training Center, offering a variety of Pilates education and comprehensive instructor training programs. In addition, Body Evolve is a pioneer in offering Continuing Education in Pilates for physical therapists and medical professionals.
Body Evolve focuses on each client’s personal intention. You are different than the person next to you. We focus on each individual, not the mass workout mentality. At Body Evolve, you have an instructor’s eyes only on you for the entire session, giving you what your body needs — from injury recovery, to training for a marathon, to playing with grandchildren— your goals are our goals.
We don’t just build strong bodies, we build strong relationships. 80% of our clientele have been us with for over 15 years.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
Our staff is dedicated to each client’s growth. Most of our instructors have been with me for over 10 years. They are incredibly smart, knowledgeable, and committed. Our front desk manager has been with us over a decade as well and clients just love her care and attention to their individual lives. I couldn’t do what I do without the help of these beauties every day. In addition, our loyal clientele has become like family over the years. Our success is truly a reflection of the depth of these personal relationships. On a deeper level, my parents, my sisters, my children and my friends have been cheerleaders, sounding boards and supporters every step of the way.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1770 1st St., Suite #205
Highland Park, IL 60035 - Website: bodyevolve.com
- Phone: 847-926-8490
- Email: info@bodyevolve.com
Image Credit:
Susan Ryan Kalina Photography
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