Laura Wilson Pilates Entrepreneur: From $100 to a Global Fitness Brand
Welcome to What It Takes, where we dive into real stories of real business owners. In this episode, we’re featuring Laura Wilson, a Pilates entrepreneur who transformed her passion for movement into a nationally recognized brand.
From arriving in the U.S. with just $100 to founding Natural Pilates, Laura Wilson’s journey is the perfect example of what it takes to build a business from the ground up.
💼 From Romania to CEO: Laura Wilson’s Entrepreneurial Journey
In 2002, Laura Wilson immigrated from Romania to the U.S. with nothing but ambition and a $100 bill in her pocket. Fueled by optimism, she quickly began investing in herself—not just to survive, but to build a future doing what she loved.
“I didn’t know what challenges I’d face—I was just ready to go.”
While working as a massage therapist, she discovered Pilates in a physical therapy office in Santa Monica—and that’s where her story began.
📈 Building Natural Pilates: From Local Studio to Industry Leader
In 2005, Laura earned her Pilates certification and opened her first studio in Beverly Hills. From there, she grew Natural Pilates into a powerhouse brand:
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Five studios across Los Angeles and New York
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A nationally accredited teacher training program
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The Natural Pilates TV digital platform
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A signature line of Pilates props and fitness tools
🧠 A Pilates Method Grounded in Simplicity and Performance
Unlike traditional Pilates methods that often feel rigid or choreographed, Laura Wilson’s Pilates approach blends classical principles with athletic training.
“Most people exercise blindfolded. Know why you’re exercising, what your goal is, and how to get there.”
She focused on making movement accessible, tailoring workouts for a wide range of clients while keeping mindfulness and muscle engagement at the core.
📉 Pivoting Through Crisis: Pandemic Innovation & Digital Expansion
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Laura acted fast. She moved all classes online within 24 hours, launched Natural Pilates TV, and applied for SBA funding that helped her keep her team employed.
“The day we closed, I said, ‘Tomorrow we’re online.’ And we were.”
Her quick thinking and leadership not only saved her business but expanded it to a global audience.
🧭 What It Takes to Be a Business Owner, According to Laura Wilson
So, what does Laura Wilson, Pilates entrepreneur, say it takes to run a successful business?
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Consistency – keep showing up, no matter what
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Resilience – be ready to pivot when the unexpected happens
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Passion – love what you do so the hard days feel worth it
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Quick thinking – focus on solutions, not problems
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Purpose – know why you’re doing what you’re doing
“It can be lonely at the top, but you’ve got to lead with clarity and confidence.”
📲 Connect with Laura Wilson & Natural Pilates
Want to train with Laura or learn more about her programs?
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💻 Website: naturalpilates.com
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📸 Instagram: @naturalpilates
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📺 Online Workouts: naturalpilatestv.com
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▶️ YouTube: Natural Pilates
🎧 Listen to More Inspiring Stories
If Laura’s story motivated you, be sure to check out more episodes of What It Takes for conversations with business owners who are doing the work, learning the lessons, and making it happen.
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