Gold COMPANY PROFILE
Balanced Body
Balanced Body is the global leader in Pilates equipment and education. Founded nearly 50 years ago, we work with the highest quality materials, and pride ourselves on premium craftsmanship and delivering unparalleled customer service.
Our Pilates education consists of 400 educators with over 35,000 certified teachers worldwide. With in-depth experience and expertise in Pilates, Balanced Body is uniquely positioned to partner with clubs, gyms and wellness facilities worldwide.
Balanced Body was founded in 1976 by Ken Endelman who continues as Owner & CEO today. Ken was the first to substantially update Joseph Pilates’ original equipment, engineering new features. He now holds 300+ patents worldwide for Pilates-related inventions and employs 300+ people.
Product range and services
Balanced Body’s acclaimed Reformers, including the Allegro, Allegro 2, Rialto and Studio Reformer, feature our patented Signature Springs, SoftTouch rope + loop system, specially engineered wheels, and hallmark smooth carriage ride.
Our Pilates apparatus includes Reformers, Towers, Chairs, Barrels, Cadillacs, and training tools. Balanced Body Education delivers Group Reformer training specifically designed to upskill qualified fitness instructors to design and deliver Group Reformer classes using Pilates principles.
This bespoke training leverages instructors’ experience teaching group exercise classes. Building on this, Balanced Body launched its ‘Business of Pilates’ Playbook, a comprehensive resource designed for fitness facility operators considering or expanding Group Reformer Pilates offerings.
Shows attending
• FIBO
• HFA (IHRSA)
• Elevate,
• Independent Gyms
• APTA-CSM, and
• our own Pilates On Tour global event series
Access our Business of Pilates Playbook HERE
Balanced Body®, Allegro®, Allegro® 2, Rialto®, Studio Reformer®, Balanced Body Education® and Pilates On Tour® are registered trademarks of Balanced Body
Signature Springs™ and SoftTouch™ are patented trademarks of Balanced Body
The studio is the realisation of a lifelong dream for Iza Recelj, Sentire’s owner and founder. With a background in Kinesiotherapy, and over a decade of clinical Pilates experience, Iza’s vision was to create a beautiful, calming space where clients could explore their physical potential and transform their health through movement.
“Movement has always been a cornerstone of my life,” explains Iza. “Whether it was windsurfing, skiing or working with elite athletes like the Slovenian women’s ski jumping team ahead of their Olympic medal success in 2022, movement has shaped my journey. Pilates is the method that connects everything for me and Sentire is the result of that passion.”
Sentire opened its doors in October 2024, quickly building a reputation for unparalleled attention to detail. From its immaculate, spa-like space with heated floors and natural light to the carefully curated client experience that values individual progress over one-size-fits-all fitness trends. The studio offers private, one-to-one sessions, tailored to each individual’s goals, as well as semi-private classes with no more than four clients per session, ensuring every movement is supervised and perfected.
“We don’t use misleading packages or gimmicks,” Iza explains. “It’s pay-as-you-train, and we reward loyalty with better rates. Quality and transparency are non-negotiable at Sentire.” When it came to selecting equipment, Balanced Body was the clear choice for Sentire. “The craftsmanship, versatility and aesthetic appeal of Balanced Body equipment is unmatched,” says Iza. “We wanted equipment that supports our clinical approach while aligning with the studio’s sophisticated design — Balanced Body delivered both.”
Sentire is equipped with a Balanced Body Clinical Reformer and Cadillac Combo for private sessions, alongside Allegro 2 Reformers for semi-private classes. Clients also experience the studio’s signature Circuit method, which makes use of the Balanced Body Cadillac, Spine Corrector, Chair and Allegro 2 Reformer, offering variety and progression.
With Pilates skyrocketing in popularity, Iza believes the growing focus on sustainable movement, longevity and holistic health is driving demand. “People are waking up to the fact that correct movement is a lifelong skill, not just a workout trend,” she says. “Pilates builds strength, mobility, and body awareness, while also calming the mind and clients are craving that combination.” With its unique blend of highly qualified instructors, world-class Balanced Body equipment, and an unwavering commitment to personalised care, Sentire has quickly established itself as one of London’s leading boutique Pilates studios.
“We want every client to leave not only feeling better, but understanding their body better,” Iza adds. “Pilates is more than exercise, it’s an investment in your future.”
Katya Ryzhova, UK Business Development Manager at Balanced Body, adds: “Sentire Pilates is a beautiful embodiment of what modern Pilates can be — luxurious, personal and deeply effective. Iza’s attention to detail, her clinical expertise and her focus on quality over quantity align perfectly with Balanced Body’s values. We are excited to see Sentire flourish.”
To find out more about Balanced Body equipment and education, visit www.pilates.com or learn more about Sentire Pilates at www.sentirepilates.com
We are increasing our in-country account management staff to attend to account needs in real-time.
Balanced Body is focused on continuing to partner with Public and Private sector operators as we launch new products later this year.
Balanced Body celebrates successful Pilates On Tour event uniting global instructors and industry leaders
Balanced Body® has successfully concluded its highly anticipated Pilates On Tour London event, bringing together a vibrant community of Pilates professionals, educators and studio owners for a dynamic weekend of education, innovation and connection in the UK capital, made even more significant as the company celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Hosted at Convene 155, Bishopsgate, the event delivered an immersive programme of workshops, lectures and hands-on sessions led by world renowned subject expert Presenters. Attendees explored the latest developments in Pilates practice, from movement science and rehabilitation to business strategy and programming, reinforcing Balanced Body’s commitment to advancing the industry through education and excellence, values that have defined the brand over the past five decades.
Pilates On Tour London welcomed participants from across the UK and Europe, creating a collaborative environment where instructors of all levels could deepen their knowledge, refine their skills and engage with like-minded professionals. The event also provided a valuable platform for networking, enabling attendees to exchange ideas, share experiences and build lasting professional relationships.
“We were thrilled to bring Pilates On Tour back to London during such a milestone year for Balanced Body,” said Ken Endelman, CEO & Founder of Balanced Body. “Celebrating 50 years of innovation with our global community made this event especially meaningful. The energy, curiosity and passion in every session truly reflected the strength and continued evolution of the Pilates industry.”
The comprehensive workshop schedule covered a wide range of topics, including functional movement, injury prevention, athletic conditioning and innovative uses of Pilates equipment. Participants also had the opportunity to experience Balanced Body’s industry-leading apparatus first-hand, gaining practical insights into how equipment can enhance both teaching and client outcomes.
Feedback from attendees highlighted the event’s impact, with many praising the depth of education, the calibre of presenters and the opportunity to connect with a global network of professionals. As Balanced Body marks its 50th anniversary, the success of the London event underscores the brand’s enduring influence and leadership within the Pilates industry.
“Pilates On Tour is about more than education, it’s about community,” added Balanced Body Director of Education, Joy Puleo, “Celebrating this milestone year alongside instructors who are shaping the future of Pilates made London truly unforgettable.”
Following the success of the London event, Balanced Body remains committed to expanding access to high-quality Pilates education worldwide through its ongoing Pilates On Tour series and comprehensive Balanced Body Education® programmes, continuing its mission into the next 50 years.
For more information about Balanced Body and upcoming Pilates on Tour events, visit https://www.pilates.com/pilates-events-continuing-education/
Balanced Body partners with Westover Hills Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center to transform patient outcomes
Powered by world-class Balanced Body equipment, Westover Hills Rehabilitation & Healthcare Center is a skilled nursing facility (SNF) providing inpatient, outpatient and long-term care services in San Antonio, USA and is uniquely distinguished by its on-site, full-service Pilates studio, redefining what therapy looks like for skilled nursing, long-term care and outpatient populations.
By integrating a full suite of Balanced Body Pilates equipment into its rehabilitation model, the facility is delivering measurable improvements in mobility, posture, balance and overall confidence among patients, including those with complex or chronic conditions.
The Pilates initiative began when Executive Director, Jerry Holyer, experienced the benefits of Pilates first-hand and envisioned the impact it could have on residents. After evaluating equipment and education partners, the clinical team selected Balanced Body for its combined strengths in engineering, clinical functionality and comprehensive Pilates education. Seven therapists including Westover’s inpatient and outpatient Directors of Rehab completed 80 hours of Balanced Body Education, laying the foundation for a fully integrated programme.
“We wanted a solution that would not only improve mobility and reduce fall risk, but also restore confidence and independence in our patients,” explains Brady Donner, director of outpatient services at Westover Hills Rehab. “Pilates has exceeded every expectation. We’ve seen residents improve posture, walk with greater stability and in one remarkable case, a patient who had not walked in three years stood up and walked after just six weeks. Balanced Body has been an essential partner in making this possible.”
Westover Hills recently completed a six-week case study comparing three groups: traditional therapy, Pilates combined with traditional therapy, and a control group. While the Functional Reach Test, a brief measure of forward-reach balance, showed similar improvements between the Pilates and traditional therapy groups, the Timed Up & Go (TUG) test, a quick gauge of mobility and fall risk, revealed striking differences. The Pilates group improved by an average of 10.64 seconds, compared to just 0.68 seconds in the traditional therapy group. These outcomes highlight meaningful reductions in fall risk and superior gains in functional mobility.
Therapists also reported gains in spinal mobility, balance, gait mechanics, core engagement, posture and quality of life measures, including self-esteem and confidence.
Westover Hills’ original gym, equipped with three Balanced Body Clinical Reformers with Towers, five Combo Chairs, Pilates Springboards, a Pilates Arc and other accessories, quickly reached capacity as patient demand grew. To accommodate increased utilisation from both residents and privately paying family members, the facility has commissioned a new dedicated studio space. The expansion will house two additional Clinical Reformers with Towers, a CoreAlign and additional Balanced Body equipment.
“Westover Hills is pioneering what the future of rehabilitation can look like,” says Ken Endelman, founder & CEO of Balanced Body. “Their clinical commitment, paired with evidence-based Pilates programming, is producing life-changing results for patients who often have limited mobility or chronic conditions. We are proud that our equipment and education are integral to the incredible outcomes this team is achieving.”
With the upcoming expansion and continued partnership with Balanced Body, Westover Hills aims to broaden access to therapeutic Pilates, offering enhanced programming for long-term care residents, skilled nursing patients and outpatient clients seeking movement-based recovery.
“This is just the beginning,” adds Donner. “Pilates is not only improving physical outcomes, it’s restoring hope, confidence and independence. That’s what rehabilitation should be.”
For more information about Balanced Body visit pilates.com, and to learn more about Westover Hills Physical Therapy visit www.sportsmedsa.com/westover-hills-physical-therapy
Balanced Body®, Balanced Body Education®, Pilates Arc®, Balanced Body Clinical Reformers® and CoreAlign® are all registered trademarks.
Pilates Springboards™ is a trademark
Dynamic duo join Balanced Body UK to strengthen the brand in the UK
Balanced Body UK has strengthened its team with the appointment of two new sales professionals, Shyam Lakhani and Steven James, as the brand continues to build its presence and support the growing Pilates community across the UK.
Shyam Lakhani joins the team as UK Commercial Sales Manager. Based in Leicestershire, Lakhani will work closely with operators across the UK commercial fitness sector, expanding Balanced Body’s Pilates equipment and education customer base, positioning the brand as a trusted, best-in-class partner through expertise, integrity and innovation.
Lakhani brings international commercial experience from a leading US-based chemicals manufacturer, where he covered a global territory. In his new role, he will focus on consultative partnerships, supporting customers with equipment and education that will deliver outstanding customer experiences that drive commercial success.
Steven James joins Balanced Body UK as UK Sales Account Manager. In his position, James will support independent Pilates businesses and individual enthusiasts, helping them to optimise their training spaces with equipment and education solutions tailored to their specific needs. He will also be responsible for managing customer relationships and building long-term partnerships through high standards of service and support.
Based in Nottingham, James brings a background in account management and sales roles across the fashion and automotive sectors. He is passionate about contributing to the continued growth of Pilates in the UK and supporting a thriving community as the discipline becomes an established part of the nation’s fitness landscape.
Both new joiners will work alongside Katherine Ryzhova, Balanced Body Business Development Manager, UK, forming a dedicated UK-based team to support customers on the ground, across both boutique and commercial Pilates environments.
Commenting on the appointments, Balanced Body Director of Sales Bill Auvil says: “Sam and Steven bring complementary experience, energy and a shared commitment to serving the Pilates community at the highest level. As Pilates continues to grow in the UK, having a strong, knowledgeable team on the ground is essential. Shyam and Steven will help us deepen relationships, better support our customers, and strengthen Balanced Body’s presence as the leading Pilates equipment partner in the UK.”
The appointments reflect Balanced Body’s ongoing investment in the UK market and its commitment to supporting Pilates studios, fitness operators and professionals, with premium and customized equipment and education solutions, via long-term partnerships.
To find out more visit: www.balancedbodypilates.co.uk
Balanced Body® is a registered trademark
University of Nottingham pioneers dedicated Reformer Pilates studio with Balanced Body
The University of Nottingham has strengthened its reputation as a leader in University sport and wellbeing with the addition of a dedicated Reformer Pilates studio at the David Ross Sports Village.
The new space, fully equipped with Balanced Body Allegro 2 Reformers and Combo Chairs, is supported by a team of Balanced Body trained instructors and marks a first for UK higher education, reflecting the University’s ongoing commitment to innovation, inclusion and holistic health.
The decision to introduce a Reformer Pilates studio was driven by a desire to stay ahead of fitness trends and meet growing demand for accessible, high-quality movement experiences. According to the University of Nottingham, the investment was about much more than adding another class to the timetable.
“Our vision was to create a facility that bridges performance, rehabilitation and wellbeing,” says Caroline Martin, Group Exercise Manager at the University of Nottingham. “We identified a gap in our offer and saw an opportunity to deliver something genuinely sector-leading, a studio that supports students, staff, athletes and the wider community. Reformer Pilates perfectly complements our physiotherapy services, athlete development programmes and sports injury clinic, reinforcing our holistic approach to performance and recovery.
“We were also keen to create a unique space that elevated the holistic training experience, with a look and feel completely different, yet still connected to the rest of the sports facilities. Working with Balanced Body, we put a great deal of thought into the design, that includes bespoke flooring and a visually impressive wood panelling with living wall concept. We believe the whole studio, in both its purpose and design, is unique to the education sector and sets a benchmark for other universities to follow.”
Reformer Pilates is also playing a strategic role in the University’s inclusion and disability support offer, providing a space where movement can be adapted to suit a range of abilities. Beyond its health and wellbeing benefits, the studio forms part of the University of Nottingham’s wider sport’s commercialisation and sustainability strategy, creating new opportunities for income generation through classes, external partnerships and corporate wellness programmes.
Balanced Body was selected as the University’s equipment and education partner following an in-depth evaluation process. “Balanced Body stood out immediately,” explained Tom Sharratt, Health and Fitness Manager at the University of Nottingham. “The equipment is exceptionally well designed, durable, versatile and visually stunning plus their team was fully collaborative from the start. They understood our goals and worked with us to bring our vision to life, from the studio’s layout and bespoke window frosting to the delivery of bespoke, on-site instructor training and future education planning.”
The studio houses 11 Balanced Body Allegro 2 Reformers with Towers and Plank Bars, alongside five Combo Chairs, allowing for a wide range of group classes, specialist sessions and rehabilitation work. Balanced Body’s role extended far beyond installation, supporting the University with studio design, instructor training and course development, ensuring the facility would be sustainable and future ready.
As part of the partnership, both the Group Exercise and physiotherapy teams completed bespoke Balanced Body training programmes delivered on site by specialist educators. This included the Group Reformer for Fitness Professionals programme, led by Balanced Body Educator Zoe Watson, and the tailored Pilates Training for Physiotherapists delivered by internationally respected Educator Lindy Royer, PT.
Zoe continues to mentor the Group Exercise team as they refine their practical skills through a limited timetable ahead of a full programme launch in early 2026. The physiotherapy team has already integrated Pilates principles into athlete care and rehabilitation pathways, helping embed equipment-based Pilates across both performance and clinical services.
Caroline adds: “The education support we’ve received from Balanced Body has been exceptional. Zoe’s guidance has given our instructors real confidence, and Lindy’s work with our physiotherapists has inspired new ways of approaching rehabilitation and performance. The training has elevated what we’re capable of delivering, and it’s created real excitement across the team. It’s given us the foundations we need for long-term success, and we’re looking forward to building on it as we work towards becoming an official Balanced Body training centre.”
Speaking about the partnership, Ken Endelman, Founder and CEO, Balanced Body, says: “From the moment we engaged with the University of Nottingham team, it was clear this project was about more than equipment, it was about creating a model of best practice for University wellbeing. It’s been fantastic to work with such a forward-thinking institution and to see Reformer Pilates being embraced as both a performance and therapeutic tool. The enthusiasm across campus has been fantastic. We very much look forward to supporting the University as it works towards becoming an official Balanced Body education centre.”
Since its launch, the studio sessions have been integrated into the University’s Group Exercise programme via a dedicated booking platform and pricing structure. Classes cater to all experience levels, from beginners to advanced participants, and are complemented by 1-to-1 sessions by the sports injury clinic and physiotherapy teams. Early engagement data has been overwhelmingly positive, with particularly strong uptake among both younger students and older adults.
“Our ambition is to make Reformer Pilates a cornerstone of our health and wellbeing ecosystem,” Caroline adds. “It’s accessible, effective, and offers something for everyone, whether recovering from injury, enhancing athletic performance, or simply looking to move better.”
Looking ahead, the University plans to expand its Pilates provision. Phase Two will explore partnerships with professional sports teams, corporate wellness programmes and local NHS partners, while also developing short courses and workshops to engage a broader audience.
By introducing a purpose-built Reformer Pilates studio and partnering with Balanced Body, the University of Nottingham has not only set a new standard for student and staff wellbeing but also created a model of best practice that other universities might want to emulate.
For more information about Balanced Body studio design, equipment and education, visit: Pilates.com
Balanced Body® is a registered trademark
Padel and Pilates under one roof: Coventry's new destination for sport and Reformer
Padel Studios Coventry was born from a simple idea: to bring the fastest-growing sport in the world indoors to the Midlands. Founded by childhood friends and former EY auditors, Preet Bains and Aman Choudhury, the site launched with three indoor courts and a vision that extended well beyond sport.
“When we looked at the space, we realised that building three courts instead of four gave us an opportunity to do something different,” says Bains. “Reformer Pilates was already booming in Coventry and worldwide, and there was clear synergy between the two disciplines. We wanted to create a place that wasn’t just about playing Padel but about wellness, community and recovery.”
The 14,000 sq ft centre, located at Bayton Road Industrial Estate, was designed with growth in mind. Drawing on their business backgrounds, Bains and Choudhury wanted to create a commercially sustainable model by diversifying beyond Padel. “We knew Padel would be hugely popular,” adds Bains, “but adding a dedicated Pilates studio allowed us to broaden our audience, drive daytime use of the site and turn the space into a true wellness hub.”
Inspired by a growing trend in Dubai, where Padel clubs are integrating Pilates into their facilities, they approached local fitness operators to collaborate. Ramsay Fitness, an established Coventry-based fitness brand with a loyal member base, was quick to see the potential.
“We loved the concept immediately,” says Jack Ramsay, Director at Ramsay Fitness. “We already had a thriving gym and Pilates business, but the chance to create a dedicated Reformer Pilates studio inside a Padel facility was completely unique. Balanced Body equipment was the obvious choice for us, their Allegro 2 Reformers are beautifully engineered and incredibly versatile, which means we can deliver a premium experience for every client.”
The studio now features eight Balanced Body Allegro 2 Reformers, with Ramsay Fitness managing the Pilates business independently from Padel through its own booking system. The collaboration has created a fitness hub that serves a diverse demographic, from Padel players looking to improve flexibility and strength, to Pilates enthusiasts curious about the dynamic sport next door.
Balanced Body worked closely with Bains, Choudhury and the Ramsay Fitness team to support the installation and deliver an optimal layout.
“Padel and Pilates might look very different, but they complement one another beautifully,” explains Bains. “Pilates develops the mobility, strength and injury prevention that Padel players need, while Padel brings a social and competitive element that excites people and keeps them coming back. The crossover has been fantastic.”
Feedback from members has been overwhelmingly positive, with players and Pilates clients alike enjoying the convenience and atmosphere of the combined facility. Beyond this, Padel Studios Coventry also offers a Recovery Room providing physiotherapy, sports massage and nutritional support as well as a thriving Bistro Café designed to encourage visitors to stay, connect and join the growing community around movement.
Looking ahead, Padel Studios Coventry is already exploring expansion, and the Padel and Pilates combination concept could be part of every future site.
“We see this as the future of fitness,” adds Bains. “People don’t just want a court or a studio, they want a place where they can train, recover, socialise and feel part of something bigger.” For Balanced Body, the project has been an opportunity to support two fast-growing fitness sectors in one location.
“Working with Preet, Aman and Ramsay Fitness on this installation has been inspiring,” says Katherine Ryzhova, Business Development Manager, Balanced Body UK at Balanced Body. “By bringing Pilates and Padel together, they’re not only maximising their space but creating a true destination for health and wellbeing. We’re proud that our equipment is at the heart of this new model.”
For more information on Balanced Body visit pilates.com , and to learn more about Padel Studios Coventry visit padelstudios.co.uk
Balanced Body® and Allegro® 2 Reformers are registered trademarks
Balanced Body celebrates the power of movement in healing through Charlene Abdul's Pilateso Studio and Foundation
What began as one woman’s healing journey has become a powerful movement for change. After losing her 15-year-old son, Tyler, to suicide in November 2024, Charlene turned to Pilates for solace, strength and connection, ultimately founding a space where others could heal through movement too.
“Movement saved me,” says Charlene. “When you’re in grief, your mind can feel trapped, but when you move, you start to breathe again. Pilates gives you focus and balance, it helped me rebuild, one small piece at a time.”
Charlene first discovered Pilates a decade ago when she joined her mother for a class to help with sciatica. What began as an act of support soon became a calling.
“Neither of us had a clue what Pilates was,” she laughs, “but with every movement, I began to feel a newfound strength and awareness I hadn’t experienced before. By the end of that first class, I was captivated, not just by the movement, but by the philosophy behind it.”
After training to teach while working full-time in finance, Charlene began hosting classes in a garden studio equipped with Balanced Body Reformers.
That community became her lifeline when a year ago, Charlene’s life was suddenly thrown into turmoil when her 15-year old son, Tyler, took his own life. In the wake of that unimaginable loss, she turned to Pilates, not only as a source of strength and solace but as a way to honour his memory and help others.
“My Pilates community wrapped their arms around me and carried me,” she shares. “The outpouring of meals, messages, and love was overwhelming. They kept showing up for me, consistently and without fail.”
Unable to return to her corporate job, Charlene decided to focus on what truly mattered. “The worst thing that could ever happen to me already had,” she says. “In a strange way, that gave me the courage to start something meaningful.”
From that courage, Pilateso Studio was born, a thriving community space now home to ten Balanced Body Allegro 2 Reformers, offering classes for adults, teens, and parents & teens. Charlene also hosts monthly sessions for local instructors to move, pause and recharge.
In memory of her son, Charlene founded The Tyler Abdul Foundation (TYFO), dedicated to inspiring hope and emotional resilience in young people. TYFO offers free Pilates-based classes for teens, Parent & Teen sessions, and workshops for teachers and parents.
“It’s all about giving young people tools for resilience through movement, laughter, and community,” she explains. “Watching them leave class standing taller and smiling wider - that’s everything.”
Since its launch, TYFO has raised more than £17,500 for mental health and suicide prevention initiatives, including a 24-hour Pilates marathon that alone brought in £11,000. TYFO also empowers young mental health ambassadors, many of them Tyler’s friends, to support others through peer-led initiatives.
Looking ahead, Charlene hopes to expand both the studio and TYFO’s reach, seeking funding to help offer more free classes and outreach programmes for teenagers and families.
“At the heart of it all,” she says, “Pilates and TYFO share the same belief: that movement, community, and compassion can change lives.”
To learn more, visit pilateso.com, tyfo.org.uk, or pilates.com, and follow Charlene on Instagram @pilateso_dorking and @thetylerabdulfoundation.
Balanced Body® and Balanced Body Allegro® 2 Reformers are registered trademarks
Joy Puleo, Director of Education
Chanin Cook, director of marketing
Katherine Ryzhova, business development manager UK
• Ten Health & Fitness,
• Thames Club,
• YMCA (UK & US),
• Club Pilates,
• Lifetime,
• Equinox,
• KX Pilates,
• LA Fitness, and
• BLOK.
