As we celebrate 20 years in business, we can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride for the journey we've shared with this incredible community at Coreworks.
Before we dive into our story, I'd like to introduce myself. I'm Sara Raymond, and I have the privilege of being the Program Manager and co-owner of Coreworks, a role I've cherished for many years. Fran, our founder, and my mom, has always been a source of inspiration to me. Even as a child, I admired her work ethic and success in the business world. When I joined Coreworks shortly after its opening, I was honored to be part of her vision. Over the years, I've seen firsthand her unwavering commitment to our community and her passion for Pilates. This opportunity has allowed me to grow into a career I truly love, and I am grateful every day to work alongside my mom.
It all began over two decades ago when Fran, inspired by her trainer Michele and the transformative power of Pilates, saw an opportunity to bring this unique form of exercise to her community of Howard County. Little did we know, this would be the start of something truly special. Today, we reflect on our humble beginnings, celebrate our growth, and look forward to an exciting future filled with strength, wellness, and community. Join us as we commemorate this significant milestone and share our vision for the next 20 years.
The Founding Story
More than 20 years ago, Fran was working out with her trainer Michele (who is still teaching at the studio today) at the Columbia Association gym when she discovered Pilates. Pilates provided a method of exercise that helped reduce the pain from the osteoarthritis she was experiencing in her hips. At that time, there was no place in Howard County to do Pilates, and Fran and Michele were eager to explore the benefits of the spring-loaded Pilates equipment. When Columbia Association declined to purchase the equipment and expand the Pilates program, Fran saw a need for a new business, and thus, Coreworks was born.
This was a big leap for Fran because she was still working in international banking in Washington DC. With at least an hour commute in each direction and a 50-60 hour work week, Fran was planning for Coreworks to be her next chapter.
Community and Growth
Starting with Michele as the only teacher and trainer at the studio, we slowly grew our staff and community of students. Back in 2004, marketing was challenging. There was no social media and hardly any online presence. We relied on ads in the local paper, postcards to local homes, and signs on street corners to introduce people to Pilates—a method many had never even heard of. Despite the challenges, our dedication to mindful movement and holistic well-being resonated with the community.
Fast forward to today, and Coreworks stands as the original place for building strength and resilience through Pilates. Our community has flourished, and we have witnessed incredible transformations. We have undergone countless renovations and changes in our business model, continually evolving to meet the needs of our clients. Stories from our long-term clients and instructors highlight the profound impact Coreworks has had on their lives, underscoring the strength and unity of our community.
Our Philosophy and Methodology
At Coreworks, we believe in the power of mindful movement. Our philosophy extends beyond physical fitness; it's about nurturing a connection between body and mind. Our instructors guide each session with compassion and precision, ensuring that every client feels supported and empowered on their journey to inner strength.
Signature Classes and Offerings
Our diverse range of classes reflects our commitment to holistic well-being. From foundational mat Pilates, Reformer, and Tower to innovative new classes offering myofascial release & mobility, we offer something for everyone. We are proud to be the first studio of our kind in the area and continue to be the most well-trained staff and fully equipped studio, even as new studios emerge. Each class is designed to cater to different needs and fitness levels, ensuring that every client can find their path to wellness at Coreworks.
Comprehensive Teacher Training Program
About 15 years ago, we introduced the first comprehensive Pilates teacher training program in the area. This program has been instrumental in cultivating a new generation of skilled instructors, further establishing Coreworks as a leader in Pilates education. Our commitment to excellence in training ensures that our instructors are well-prepared to guide clients on their wellness journey.
Vision for the Future
As we look to the next 20 years, our vision is clear: to continue growing, innovating, and building a supportive community. We plan to expand our class offerings, enhance our facilities, and continue to train instructors to better serve our clients. Our goal is to make Coreworks a place where everyone can discover their inner strength and achieve holistic well-being.
To celebrate our anniversary, we're excited to welcome new students to our studio or welcome back students who haven’t been in a while. Our New Student Special is $99 for 12 classes in your first month. Whether you're new to Pilates or returning after a break, we invite you to join our community and experience the transformative power of mindful movement.
Celebrating with Special Events
As they become available, we will share more details about our celebration coming up in the fall. It will be an open house celebration, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to join us in commemorating this milestone. In the meantime, stop by and pick up a shirt with our new logo and be part of our vibrant community.
As we reflect on the past 20 years and look forward to the future, we are filled with gratitude for our incredible community. Thank you for being a part of the Coreworks family and for your support. We are excited to continue this journey with you, capturing inner strength and embracing the transformative power of Pilates. Let's create a healthier, happier future together.
