If you’re in the Pilates world, chances are you know who Courtney Miller is.
We originally connected years ago at one of her workshops in Melbourne, Australia. Flash forward to 2018 and a move to San Diego later, we had a zoo date with our kiddos and instantly hit it off.
During Covid we chatted about what we could do to get studios open and make everyone feel safe and comfortable. It was then that my husband and I came up with BYO Loops. You bring a mat to class, so why not Loops?
Thanks to Courtney’s support and her being one of the first to champion Loops, we have grown into the global brand we are today.
We have a lot of admiration for Courtney, so it only felt right that we spotlight her Pilates Republic studios with this community.
How long have you been in the pilates world?
I have been teaching movement for around 20 years. I began as a personal trainer, then dove into Yoga, and started my Pilates training journey in the early 2000’s. I also took several amazing trainings in Barre, Ariel Yoga, TRX and more.
Tell us about Pilates Republic?
Pilates Republic is a boutique studio unlike any other. Teaching Pilates is my absolute joy and passion and after spending nearly two decades in the industry, I knew it was time to create the studio I was dreaming of. A space for clients and teachers to grow and evolve. An encouraging environment where people could feel empowered to move. A space where fear or limiting beliefs could be overcome and joy, confidence and connection were prioritized.
What makes your studio unique/stand out?
I can absolutely say there is nothing like Pilates Republic. From our custom reformers (I named her the Rebel because she’s a bad ass doing things differently and breaking some rules along the way!), to our signature classes you can only get at a Pilates Republic. We call it Pilates with HEART. Each letter stands for one of our class styles - HEAT, ALIGN, EMPOWER, RENEW and TONE. I could not ask for a more amazing team of passionate and talented instructors. The Pilates Republic experience is pure magic!
Biggest business lesson?
There are lot of big lessons that have come my way as a studio owner. One is that you cannot predict the future (hello pandemic) and that life is constant change (this is a hard one!). Remain focused on your mission, surround yourself with amazing people, and be authentic to your heart. This will help guide decisions from a place of love and abundance. You won’t always get it right, but you’ll have the chance to adapt and evolve. The more open you are to that the easier and more enjoyable the ride!
Your greatest joy in life?
My greatest joy in opening Pilates Republic is hands down the people it has brought into my life. Opening a studio as a single mom with 3 year old meant I needed community, love and support. The relationships I’ve built over the last 6 years fill my heart and could not imagine my life without these amazing people.
Favorite part of your day?
My favorite part of my day is waking up my son with cuddles. My favorite part of my work day is teaching classes or teaching with my team. We do monthly in-studio teacher workouts and it’s seriously so much fun!
What are you reading / watching right now?
Don’t laugh. I’m currently reading Harry Potter. Each night I read around 10 pages to my son and then we both usually fall asleep. We’re almost on book 4! We watch the movie after we complete each book. It’s been really special.
Something you're loving, that we need to know about?
Although I can’t go as often as I’d like to because it’s in LA, I’m loving FaceGym! The concept of strengthening and lengthening facial muscles via exercise and massage makes a lot of sense to me as a movement lover. I’ve had 3 sessions and my skin and face felt amazing after.
Fav Loops product and why?
Obviously the Premium Reformer Loops, we implemented a BYO Loops policy at the start of covid and haven't looked back. Our clients love to purchase and bring their own Loops to class, adding their own unique style and a sense of ownership.
It has been a huge income addition for the studio. We also love the Resistance Loops in Medium. It’s the perfect tension for my favorite booty flows and doesn’t slip! Plus you can bring it anywhere and it’s great for cardio and strength exercises and adds some spice to my reformer sequences. We also love the Pilates Balls. Can we just say everything?
If we come visit your studio, what is another must do in the area?
San Diego has it all! Great food, beautiful beaches, sunshine and great attractions for kids. Come visit us anytime! Visiting Pilates teachers always get a free class at Pilates Republic. (DM me when you’re in town and I’ll set it up!)
Stay connected with Courtney at @courtneymillerpilates and @pilatesrepublic on Instagram.
