Local woman grows boutique fitness into business with two locations

Allison Zang

Business Name: Absolute Pilates

Years in business: 15

Location: 132 Walden Way, Mechanicsburg and 3514 Trindle Road, Camp Hill

Contact: absolutepilates.co or 717-205-2453

Q: Why did you want to start this kind of business?

A: I wanted to bring small group Pilates reformer classes to central PA. In 2009, we had no other boutique fitness studios here a central PA. I wanted a friendly and fun place for people to safely work out no matter what their fitness level and health conditions are.

Q: How did you get your start?

A: I got my start in Pilates in college when I was looking for a part-time job and an opportunity to grow my love of fitness. My central PA studio started with one reformer in the office of my house. It grew to five locations. It turned into a franchise business and now is currently two. I am operating two locations.

Q: What does your business sell or provide?

A: Pilates small group classes, private training and Pilates teacher training.

Q: What is the biggest challenge you are facing right now?

A: Staffing with growing priorities of having largely female workforce that works part time.

Q: What is your favorite thing to do or place in Cumberland County?

A: My favorite thing is how easy it is to be outside for everything from running, hiking, skiing, watching my daughter play field hockey and soccer and grabbing some outdoor dinner.

Rachel Andreoli is the owner of Love Where You Live LLC.