International Pilates Day with Ali Handley
Founder of Bodylove Pilates

Congratulations are in order, Happy 6th Birthday. Looking back at the very beginning of Bodylove Pilates 6 years ago, what was the initial vision, and how has it evolved (or stayed true) over time?

My vision for Bodylove was to create a boutique studio experience like no other. I wanted to build a studio that elevated the group class practice from a workout you can get anywhere to something unique and transformative every time. I wanted and have built a supportive and thriving community of Bodylovers and I remain dedicated to ensuring their experience continues to evolve and we inspire Bodylove clients to discover the joy of movement & their highest version of self. I was so excited to introduce my method, The Mindful Burn, a method developed during my years as an instructor in New York and as someone who devours all things fitness and wellness. This method has developed and evolved as I have been exposed to new wellness modalities, but our guiding light is and always will be, to provide world-class instruction, in reimagined wellness spaces.

What's one of the biggest lessons you've learned about running a business in the wellness industry over the past 6 years?

There’s no such thing as a pilates emergency!
I want to innovate - not imitate.

Building a community is clearly important at Bodylove. What strategies have you found most effective in fostering that sense of connection over the years?

Being authentic - it is so important. As I continue to evolve in how I think and what wellness practices inspire me, I have brought this to my community. I don’t try to imitate other studios, it just has to be authentic or it doesn’t work. I also believe in rewarding the community, rather than being obsessed with growing my community. If I can provide a world-class experience, the very best instructors who feel inspired to teach, and a community, love filled vibe at the studios, my clients feel seen, my staff feels held, then I don’t have to keep looking for new clients, I retain and grow from within.

Bodylove Academy is a significant achievement. How does your teaching accreditation and experience inform your approach to training both clients and instructors?

Thank you. Bodylove Academy has been such a rewarding part of the business to build. I have certainly not done it alone, with significant support from my senior instructors who write and teach the courses. We have just added Barre to our offering and hand on heart it is a fabulous and comprehensive course! I always teach the pre and postnatal portion of the certifications and I love my time with the students. The first thing I ask is why. Why are you doing the course? It is so powerful time and time again to hear the students say it was something a teacher said to them, a feeling they got from a class that inspired them so much that they wanted to be that person to inspire, impact someone in that positive way. This continues to inform the way I teach everyday. I want people to walk out of my class feeling so much better than they did when they walked in. I wanted to inspire them, support them and make a positive impact on every client I have in my class, because just maybe that class experience will create a lasting positive change in their life - as my student discussed in the course.

Bodylove emphasizes 'radical self-love'. How do you create an environment where clients feel empowered and supported on their wellness journey?

The foundation of Bodylove is love! My mission, alongside my incredible team of instructors, is to ensure every time our clients come to Bodylove they feel seen. We remember their names, if they have injuries, returning to working out after they’ve had a baby, if they’re pregnant, what trimester they are in - it feels personal. They are not just a person at the studio. They are a Bodylover and we are grateful for them. We also continue to create and host wellness experiences that amplify their wellness and spotlight their current life experience.

Why do you think Pilates, in particular, is having a moment right now?

At Bodylove our classes should feel like a reward, not a punishment and I think this makes working out a joy not a chore. You can do Bodylove everyday and never have the same workout, it’s progressive, and it’s fun. Who doesn’t want that to be their daily exercise! Pilates can also be modified, almost every exercise is achievable no matter who you are, your age, your experience - that makes pilates accessible to every BODY!

What's your vision for the future of Bodylove Pilates and its continued impact on the well-being of your clients?

This year is a big year for Bodylove. We will be doubling our business in August, so growing our community of Bodylovers and talented instructors. It's an exciting time and I can’t wait for this new evolution of my original vision.

You wear so many hats – business owner, instructor, mum and more! Can you give us a whirlwind look of a typical day in your life?

Omg - do you really want to know? It’s hectic, lol!

I wake up around 5am.

I meditate (vedic meditation has changed my life - thank you to my brother Matt & my teacher Jess Osie!)

I either go straight to the studios to teach classes or I’m on mum duty. I have three kids so mornings are busy getting ready - brekky (they all have different things gah!) making lunches etc. We just got a puppy called Bruce, so he needs walking before we leave for the day!

I get a second coffee - Zey’s in Woollahra is the best!

All day I’m teaching, or taking class. I have meetings with my work wife Ash. Trouble shooting about schedules, staff and strategizing upcoming studio activity.

2.45pm hits and I’m back on mum duty - school pick up and then I’m driving and dropping kids to sport until about 6pm.

Dinner with the family most nights except for Tuesday night. Ever since I opened Bodylove me and my 3 besties have escaped the bedtime routine and taken a 7pm class at Bodylove. After class we have soup at the Thai restaurant on Queen St for a weekly debrief. Aren’t girlfriends the best?

Bed by 9/9.30pm - I have to read before bed. I’m a big reader. I just finished the best book. Days You Were Mine! Read it!

Quick Fire...!

Podcasts you’re loving?

Diary of a CEO - I love all guests.


Favourite way to unwind after a long day?

Spending time with my family and friends. I love the ocean, so if I can, I love to go to the beach!


Best way to spend a sunny weekend in Sydney?

Beach of course! We are beyond spoiled. North Bondi looked better than the Maldives this summer.

Next travel location?
Bali.


A word of advice you’d give someone in their 20s?

No regrets. Dream Big. Be respectful & work hard. Play hard. Do it all and experience life. You’re meant to make mistakes in your 20s, so don’t be too hard on yourself.

You can learn more about the Ali and Bodylove Pilates

Bodylove Instagram