Interview with Linda Bravdica, owner/instructor
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: As a young child, I was hospitalized frequently for asthma attacks. As I entered junior high, I decided to run long-distance on the track team because I needed to strengthen my body and lungs. Since then, I have competed in hundreds of races and continue to run to keep my body strong. I began teaching Pilates about 25 years ago and was trained by a well-known instructor in the Denver area. Additionally, I was working toward my bachelor’s degree in biology while working at a physical therapy clinic as an aide.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: I am a small studio that allows me to give personalized attention to each client. I have a number of clients who come to me before or after surgeries, then stay because they feel their body is stronger as a whole. By keeping my studio small (I only teach privates and duets) I get the opportunity to give my clients a great workout. I get to know each one of them, who they really are and what they want to obtain from their workouts. I have two pieces of each equipment: reformers, towers, chairs, jump boards, boxes, Bosu balls and weighted bars. I also have many props to pick and choose from. I love to work with all levels of abilities — from beginners to professional athletes. Each brings something unique to the table. My prices are affordable and I want to keep it that way. People need this training and I want them to have the opportunity to get it.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: To meet me now you would never know how painfully shy I was growing up. Who knew that one day I would love to talk and teach classes day in and day out. I love to work with people on changing their movement patterns and making them stronger. I like feeling challenged in putting together individual workouts.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Learning how to run a business. I went from working for someone to opening my studio in two weeks’ time. There was a lot to think about in regard to forms, permits, pricing, insurance, etc. For me, this was overwhelming until I was able to get all my ducks in a row and have systems put into place. Training clients is the most rewarding part of my job … helping them help themselves to have a healthy body.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: I have many hobbies, but one might surprise you. I ride dirt bikes with my husband and two sons. We ride beginner to very advanced trails, mostly in Moab, Utah. I learned to ride dirt bikes as a young girl and have kept the sport alive. My Pilates training has kept my core strong so I can navigate these trails and keep my bike upright.
Profile
Business: Core Essentials Pilates
Address: 11367 Wolf Tooth Pass, Littleton
Hours: By appointment
Founded: 2013
Contact: 720-319-2403;
Employees: 1
