Meet Mari Pratt | Business owner, Pilates Instructor and Personal Trainer

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

Hi Mari, what’s the most important thing you’ve done for your children?
As a parent, one of the most important things I’ve done is to show my children, through my own life, that hard work, dedication, and the willingness to take risks can lead to success, regardless of where you start.

I came to the United States as a female Filipino immigrant, following in the footsteps of my parents, who moved here to give their children a better life. We didn’t have much and knew no special connections. I didn’t attend a prestigious college, and money was always tight. These challenges meant that I had to figure things out on my own, without the safety net that others might have had. I had no assistant to help me with the day-to-day tasks as my husband was busy with his stressful job, which, in hindsight, made me more determined and driven. I realized early on that if I wanted to build a life for myself and my family, I had to rely on my own efforts. There was simply no other choice.

After working for someone else for a few years, I understood that it wasn’t the path I wanted to continue on. I took a leap of faith and quit my job at a physical therapy office. Despite not knowing exactly what lay ahead, I decided to open my own Pilates studio 23 years ago. It was a risk, but one that I was willing to take because I knew that if I didn’t try, I would never know what I was capable of achieving. This lesson of embracing uncertainty and pushing forward is something I’ve passed on to my children, and I believe it has had a profound impact on them.

For my daughter especially, I wanted to show that a woman can start and run a successful business on her own terms, without needing a man to dictate or control her life. I have a loving and supportive husband who has always encouraged my independence, and together we have shown our children that marriage is a partnership, where both people contribute equally to the family’s success. Our kids see us as a team, rather than me relying solely on my husband.

Living in the United States has given us many opportunities, and I’ve taught my children to appreciate where they live and to understand that women can be more than just mothers—they can be entrepreneurs, leaders, and independent thinkers. I’ve been able to be a good wife, a great mother, and a successful business owner because I never gave up, and I seized the opportunities that this country provided.

In the end, I think the most important impact I’ve had on my children is showing them, through my own journey, that success is possible with hard work and perseverance. I’ve taught them that nothing in life is handed to you, but if you are willing to put in the effort and take risks, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I own a Pilates studio that I’ve been running for over 23 years. What sets my business apart is the deep connection I’ve built with my clients over the years. Many of them have been with me since day one, and our relationship goes beyond just instructor and client—we’re like family. I combine my expertise in Pilates with my certification from the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), offering a unique approach that emphasizes strength training without bulkiness. I also partner with the Physicalmind Institute to certify aspiring Pilates instructors, helping others embark on their own fitness journeys.

What I’m most proud of is the community I’ve created within my studio. It’s a place where people not only come to work out but to feel supported, encouraged, and part of something special. I’m also incredibly excited about the new online courses I’m developing, aimed at helping others start their own Pilates businesses. This is a way for me to expand my impact beyond my studio and reach people all over the world.

Getting to where I am today was far from easy. As a female Filipino immigrant, I didn’t have the advantages of generational wealth or special educational opportunities. I had to figure out how to build my business on my own, without any handouts. The journey was filled with challenges—financial, emotional, and practical. But I’ve always believed in the power of hard work and perseverance. Whenever I faced obstacles, I reminded myself that I had no other choice but to succeed. My parents’ sacrifices and my own determination to create a better life pushed me forward.

Along the way, I’ve learned some valuable lessons. One of the most important is the value of taking risks. I quit my stable job at a physical therapy office to start my Pilates studio, not knowing if it would succeed. But if I hadn’t taken that risk, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I’ve also learned that success isn’t just about working hard—it’s about staying true to your values, building strong relationships, and continually adapting to new challenges.

What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that it’s built on a foundation of resilience, dedication, and a deep commitment to helping others. My story is proof that with hard work, dedication, and the right mindset, you can achieve great things, no matter where you start.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting for a week,
-Santa Monica & Malibu-Dinner at Chelsea in Santa Monica:** We’d kick off the trip with a delicious dinner at Chelsea, enjoying great food and the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica.
-Daytime at Soho Malibu:-The next day, we’d head to Soho Malibu to soak up the sun, relax, and take in the beautiful views. It’s the perfect spot to experience what California living is all about.

Weekend Getaway to Santa Barbara – We’d spend the weekend in Santa Barbara, exploring the charming downtown, visiting wineries, and enjoying the coastal beauty. Santa Barbara’s mix of laid-back vibes and sophistication makes it an ideal getaway.

Westlake Lake Adventure- Boat Cruise and Fishing on Westlake Lake:Back in the area, we’d take a boat cruise on Westlake Lake and maybe do a bit of fishing. There’s nothing like spending time on the water, relaxing, and enjoying the scenic views.

– Workout at My Studio: Of course, I’d have to take them for a workout at my Pilates studio—after all, it’s a part of what I love, and they’d get to see why it’s so special to me!

– Hollywood Bowl Concert: To wrap up the trip, we’d head to the Hollywood Bowl for a concert under the stars. There’s something magical about enjoying live music in such an iconic venue.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to give a shoutout to a few incredible people who have been pillars in my life. First, my mom, who tirelessly worked 2-3 jobs while raising four children. Her strength and resilience are what taught me the value of hard work and determination. Then there’s my dad, who was strict and gave me the rules to live by, always reminding me to be a good human and follow the right path—he even threatened to send me back to the Philippines if I strayed too far! His discipline helped shape my character.

I also want to acknowledge my husband, who always puts me first and has given me the stability and unwavering support that allows me to thrive. His love and dedication to our family are felt deeply, and I’m forever grateful for his presence in my life.

And finally, I want to give credit to myself for choosing to stay on the right path, even when it wasn’t the easiest one. I made the conscious decision to avoid the wrong choices, like drugs, and to focus on being a good human. Staying true to my values and taking the high road has made all the difference in my life, and I’m proud of that.

Website: https://www.betterbodypilates.com

Instagram: @betterbodyfit

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mari-pratt-1203525/

Twitter: https://x.com/betterbodyems

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

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/betterbody-fitness-calabasas-3

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Betterbodyfit

Image Credits
NFL players and Rams Champions
jalen ramsey
David Long Jr.