I had this article published about me in the Natural Parent Magazine! I hope you enjoy it!
Beth
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Beth Reading wants women to know how good they can feel in both body and mind with regular sessions of precise, careful movement. Whether you want to get fitter, combat pain, boost your wellbeing or just age a little more gracefully, MyPilatesTime makes it easy to achieve your health and wellness goals through fun, engaging online Pilates classes. Beth believes that above anything else, Pilates is about having a good time: about finding a connection with yourself and finding joy in every class as you work towards your own personal fitness goals. Here she talks to The Natural Parent Magazine about the passion behind her business, the pros and cons of running her own business, and her exciting plans for the future.
The Passion: What inspired you to set up your business?
When I worked as a primary school teacher, Pilates was a treat I looked forward to each week. I loved putting aside one whole hour to focus solely on myself and loved falling into bed that evening feeling heavy, relaxed and calm.
Then one day after class, I casually said to my husband, “I wish I could do this every day!”, to which he simply replied, “Why don’t you?”. And that’s where it all began!
The Launch: How did you start out in the beginning?
Rolling out the mats each week and teaching small groups of 5 or 6 people in community centres is where it all began. I loved these sessions because it is where I learnt how to connect with different women to get the best results.
While some women needed visual cues, others needed touch, while some preferred anatomical directions, and others liked understanding the reason behind each exercise.
Once I’d figured out the most meaningful way to connect with each woman, the results materialised: better mobility, stronger muscles and less pain. Seeing other women experience the same benefits that drew me to Pilates – including a new zest for life – was all the motivation I needed to keep going and growing My Pilates Time.
Rolling out the mats each week and teaching small groups of 5 or 6 people in community centres is where it all began. I loved these sessions because it is where I learnt how to connect with different women to get the best results.
While some women needed visual cues, others needed touch, while some preferred anatomical directions, and others liked understanding the reason behind each exercise.
Once I’d figured out the most meaningful way to connect with each woman, the results materialised: better mobility, stronger muscles and less pain. Seeing other women experience the same benefits that drew me to Pilates – including a new zest for life – was all the motivation I needed to keep going and growing My Pilates Time.
The Innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?
The truth is, I had spent so much time analysing and copying other teachers’ methods that I didn’t see that I had something unique to offer just because of who I am.
Once I had that epiphany and stopped trying to be something I wasn’t, I was able to lean into being who I am as a teacher and an encourager. I became more confident in the knowledge that my teaching technique is just right for some people and not necessarily for everyone. And I’m OK with that.
I offer a gentle approach to movement that leaves women feeling good about what their bodies can do and helps them progress gradually. This nurturing style is manageable and sustainable, making it easier for women to look after themselves consistently. My belief that the greatest transformation happens as a result of daily, incremental habit changes is at the core of my approach to Pilates.
Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
There’s no doubt that there is a push and pull feeling in me when it comes to balancing work and family life. But I often find myself questioning if balance really exists at all and whether it’s something I should be striving for.
In business, there are some weeks when I’m very busy, perhaps launching a campaign or a new product. But then there are other weeks when I’m in maintenance mode, keeping things ticking along and taking time to dream about the future.
Remembering life is like this helps me go with the ebb and flow. This principle is something I also teach in my Pilates classes. There are days when our bodies need to rest, so respect that and move gently. Then there are days when we are full of energy and ready for a physical challenge. When that’s the case, respond to that feeling and go with it!
Since my business is designed by me, I have the freedom to mould work commitments around my family and choose the work I want to do. I’ve learnt that 20% of work produces 80% of the results. So, with less fluffing about, I am able to give my business what it needs and still have the time and energy to devote myself to my family too! And I fully appreciate the opportunity to show my children what it means to pursue your dreams, work for what you want, push through challenges and above all, enjoy the journey!
The Drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Deep down, I held a false belief that being successful in business meant that I would have to sacrifice being the best mum I could be. I was afraid that my focus on the business meant that my family would suffer.
This false belief blocked my professional growth. It was like trying to drive a car with the brake on! I was scared to let go and trust the journey. But when I learnt to trust in the vision I had for My Pilates Time, I found that it is possible to be my best self as a mum and a business owner. I started to live in the frequency of my truth, and when I don’t fight it, the energy and inspiration just flow!
For Better or Worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
Mindset is everything. When I feel that things are going well and I’ve helped lots of women, it’s easy to be productive, focused and driven. But when I have troubles or roadblocks I don’t know how to overcome, I can feel stuck.
Sometimes, I feel like if I get a task done it’ll lead to the next step which may be unknown, and I think that’s what makes me procrastinate: the fear of the unknown. Moving forward and growing a business is all about doing new things, which is not always an easy thing to do!
I remember the first live class I taught was a free webinar, which terrified me as it was something I’d never done before. I was up all night worrying! Would the computer setup work as I had practised? Would I remember the class routine? Would anyone even show up?
As I’ve learnt over time though, nothing is ever as hard as we imagine. When I look back at the many new things I’ve done over the years, my younger self would be amazed!
This is the super exciting part of owning a business! My business is evolving and growing just like I am. I honestly believe the success of my business is a direct reflection of my personal growth and the courage it takes to embrace it.
Hopes and Dreams: What next?
I have spent the past eight years creating My Pilates Time membership site supported by a beautiful community that empowers women to make simple, achievable and lasting lifestyle habits. Now I am devoting my time to nurturing the women I work with and sharing how good they too can feel with regular, manageable exercise.
People often assume that I have an intense workout regime and keep to a strict diet, but it’s not the case. The secret to staying mobile and strong is just moving regularly, in an intelligent way, and eating beautiful whole foods. It’s as simple as that!
Inspired by my own journey with whole foods and my passion for cooking, I am due to launch a simple four-step nutrition guide, Eat Well Be Well. Created in collaboration with nutrition coach Laura Pennington from The Natural Space, Eat Well Be Well is a detailed guide to eating whole foods and making sustainable habits, which also includes a beautiful cookbook.
I can’t wait to share this guide with others who want to build a healthy lifestyle led by mindful eating, moderate exercise and positive self-talk. It’s the perfect companion to your regular Pilates practice!