let's build a studio together

Hey there! my name is Sabrina Castro. I am reaching out to my beloved family, friends, and followers with amazing news, and to ask for a huge favor. It's taken almost ten years, but I am ready to take a giant leap of faith and open my very own Pilates studio!

 

From the very first day I taught Pilates, I knew in my heart and every ounce of my being, I wanted to own a studio. Ten years ago, I had a vision of myself creating this space where I can offer the magic of Pilates to my community. Since the beginning of my career, and with each passing year, I learn more, I touch more hearts, and heal more souls with movement. The fiery urge in me to offer more burns brighter. This year my passion for spreading Pilates magic has been burning like wildfire, so I know it's my time to shine!

 

This is important to me, because when I first entered the Pilates Industry, I was so ecstatic about being an instructor and sharing this magical modality that helped me in so many ways, however my hopes quickly shattered when I realized Pilates is not accessible to all. I was very fortunate Pilates fell into my lap by the grace of GOD, but for most, Pilates is a luxury. A luxury most people from my community and similar background, cannot afford. Pilates is the most expensive forms of group fitness in the market, especially in NYC. It is sad to know Pilates cater to mostly middle-high income class. Also, for decades Pilates was geared towards Caucasians, therefore most Hispanics/Latinos, and Blacks don't even know what Pilates is. Those who have an idea, assume it's only for "white girls", specifically "rich white girls".  Which is sad many are misinformed, because many other races do Pilates. I was born and raised in a disadvantaged neighborhood of NYC, low-income public housing, majority Hispanic and Black. When I speak of Pilates to my family, friends and neighbors, not one soul knows what it is. When I mention the cost of a class, people look at me like I'm crazy and dismiss the idea of trying. it bothers me, cause Pilates can help so many bodies move and feel better. 
Pilates also markets to slim women and men, so the plus-size community shies away from trying this amazing form of exercise. I lost count how many times I've heard people say "Oh I can't do what you do, I'm too fat". It truly breaks my heart hearing they won't even try, fitness culture is to blame for this.  I also quickly learned how unfair instructors are treated. My heart aches when I witness or hear of an amazing instructor being treated poorly. What hurts even more is admitting I was treated wrongfully for many years, and did not know to speak about it, cause it was deem the "norm".. 

In my eyes, none of this is right! No one should be mistreated. No one should feel left out. No one should be put down.

 

So, my goal is to build a studio- safe haven- which offers luxury Pilates that is affordable, accessible, and inclusive to all. My infamous motto, PILATES IS, and should be, FOR EVERY BODY! I by this 100% . Pilates should be for everybody; every color, every size, every race, every gender, every age, every income bracket! Absolutely no one should feel left out!
I'm here to change lives. To help my community move better, and feel better. To educate those how to live a healthier life, and make smarter choices. I'm here to help my colleagues grow, and feel appreciated for all their hard work and sacrifices, because let me tell you, Pilates instructors HUSTLE HARD!

My goal is to offer accessibility and affordability to disadvantaged neighborhoods.  To offer a welcoming space for people living in larger bodies. To introduce Pilates to the Latino/Hispanic community, and show that we belong! There is space for us to grow in the fitness/ Pilates industry! and we can do Pilates! Everyone can do Pilates! 

 

So, with that being said, I am asking for help from everyone who believes in me. I am putting my pride aside and asking you to please fund my dream. To help me start my business so I can build a community where I can offer more services that will change lives.

 

Donations received are for start-up cost, to help with the build out of the studio, equipment, rent for the first year, and securing payment for employees. 

I know my business will be successful, especially with your support. I feel in my bones it is important for someone like me who embodies more than just Pilates to create a space that will embrace you all!

 

Finally, from the bottom of my heart, a ginormous THANK YOU! to everyone who supports me and my vision.

 

Kisses!!

 

Sabrina C