Bangkok’s Pilates Guru, Or-Yah Avni January 23, 2010
Posted by ppantoomano in : Bangkok, Business, Entrepreneur, Interview, Pilates , trackback
Share with us your background.
I used to be a dancer and left Israel for NY to pursue this dream. I danced at the Professional Trainee Program Martha Graham School in NYC and performed in different dance projects as well as with my own choreography. In 1998 I was introduced to Pilates when I injured my knee and had to stop dancing for a while. I was told Pilates would do wonders. After only few sessions I felt a significant improvement, I was able to walk again with no pain and got back to stage. I decided to become a teacher of this wonderful method so I can share it with others. I am also a yoga and Gyrotonic teacher. I was teaching in the USA and Israel before arriving to Thailand.
When and why did you decide to start The Pilates Studio?
When I arrived to Thailand in 2002, I taught private classes in people’s houses and gradually had my hands full. In 2005 I opened the first Pilates studio in Thailand, in order to introduce the great benefits of this method to the Thai people and so everyone can come to me instead of me running around town. I am proud to own the first Pilates studio in Thailand.
We offer Pilates classes on the mat and using the special Pilates equipment as well as other classes for women while in different stages in life – prenatal, mommy and me, menopause etc. We also offer yoga, Gyrotonic and certification courses in Pilates and Prenatal. We maintain high level of teaching and customer care and introduce exciting workshops and promotions every month.
Could you give some advice on how to start your own business in Bangkok?
It took me nearly a year since the idea came up before the studio opened. I had a lot of support from my husband and we did it together. My husband worked on the graphics and designing and this was a big help. We took our savings into this business and went step by step all the way to have the business up and running.
If you want to open your own business, most important, make sure you have support from people around you who are loyal – husband, partner, and friends; people who will be there to support you along the way. Believe in yourself. Don’t be afraid to follow your dream and vision. Be patient. Maintain the highest standards, and remind yourself how lucky you are to turn your passion into business.
What are some of your hobbies?
Reading and traveling.
Any other tips?
Maintain excellent customer care and highest level of professionalism, as happy and satisfied clients will spread their satisfaction!
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