We had the good fortune of connecting with Lorena Kichik and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lorena, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I started Kichik Studio because I saw the power of movement—Pilates, dance, and yoga—as more than just fitness. These practices are healing, empowering, and transformative, both physically and emotionally. After years of performing, teaching, and working with people of all ages and backgrounds, I felt a strong calling to create a space that reflected my values: community, inclusivity, creativity, and wellness.

My thought process was simple but intentional:
I wanted to build a studio where people feel seen, supported, and challenged, whether they’re training like athletes or just starting their wellness journey. I also wanted to celebrate my cultural roots and bring Latin joy and rhythm into the experience.

Kichik Studio isn’t just a business—it’s my heart in motion. It’s a place where movement becomes a lifestyle, and where every person is welcomed exactly as they are.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Kichik Studio is more than just a place to work out—it’s a space for connection, healing, and empowerment through movement. We offer Pilates, dance, yoga, barre, and sound bath classes, blending classical technique with creative energy. What sets us apart is our inclusive, heart-centered approach—everyone is welcome, no matter your age, background, or experience level.

I’m most proud of the community we’ve built. People walk in for a workout and leave feeling stronger not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. That’s the magic of movement with purpose—and that’s what Kichik Studio is all about.

Getting here wasn’t easy. Starting a business—especially as a woman and Latina entrepreneur—came with its share of challenges: financial risk, burnout, self-doubt. But I leaned on my support system, stayed rooted in my “why,” and let the mission guide me through. I learned to trust the process, pivot when needed, and never stop showing up for my vision.

What I want the world to know is that Kichik Studio was built with love, intention, and a deep belief in the power of movement to transform lives. It’s a place where culture, creativity, and wellness meet—and I’m just getting started.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
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If my best friend came to visit me in Los Angeles, I’d plan the ultimate week of sunshine, movement, amazing food, and iconic LA vibes—a little bit of wellness, culture, and fun in every day!

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Day 1: Beach Day Vibes
Start with breakfast at Paradise Cove in Malibu—you can’t beat eating right on the beach. We’d dip our toes in the sand and ease into LA life.

Day 2: Move & Fuel
Morning hike at Runyon Canyon or Griffith Park, followed by a post-hike treat: LaLaLand Matcha and a picture-perfect avocado toast—LA classics that never miss.

Day 3: Art & Culture
Explore The Broad Museum, then wander through the Arts District for murals, vintage shops, and a fun stop at Maru Coffee or Verve.

Day 4: Sushi Night
Take them to a sushi spot they’ll dream about later—Sugarfish or a low-key, high-quality local sushi bar. Then maybe a rooftop drink in Downtown LA.

Day 5: Studio Day + Sunset Views
Of course, we’d hit a class at Kichik Studio (Pilates, dance, or yoga—maybe all three!). Then dinner at Castaway in Burbank—amazing views, even better food.

Day 6: Shop & Stroll
We’d explore Melrose Avenue, snap pics by iconic walls, shop local boutiques, and enjoy a lunch break at The Butcher’s Daughter or Joan’s on Third.

Day 7: Self-Care + Venice Canals
We’d walk the Venice Canals in the morning (hidden magic in the middle of the city), then have a slow day of self-care: sound bath, massage, and a peaceful brunch.

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LA has it all—beach, city, food, movement, and beauty. There’s nothing better than sharing it with your best friend!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely—so much of my journey has been shaped by the love and support of others.

First, I want to dedicate my shoutout to my mom, who always believed in me and made the effort to take me to every single dance class growing up. Her encouragement and commitment planted the seeds for everything I do today.

And a huge thank you to my husband, who quite literally built my dream from the ground up. He designed and built my boutique studio with his own hands, turning a vision into a beautiful, welcoming space for our community. I couldn’t have done it without him.

Behind every strong woman is a village—and I’m so grateful for mine.

Website: https://www.kichikstudio.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/kichikstudio?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Linkedin: Lorena kichik

Twitter: Kichikstudio

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KICHIKSTUDIO/

Yelp: https://yelp.to/Q-hSsmfRjz

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@kichikstudio?feature=shared

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.