Over the last few decades, there’s been a massive evolution in fitness—from gym workouts with free weights and machines, to Pelotons and at-home yoga, the way people are choosing to stay fit has shifted. And, factors like the pandemic have led people to focus on healthier lifestyles, from the convenience of their own home, on their own time.
One of the biggest growing fitness trends today is Pilates. In 2023, nearly 12 million people in the U.S. said they participated in Pilates training, a number that is projected to increase by 15% by the end of 2024. Driving this growth are the benefits of low-impact Pilates training from increased core strength to improved posture. Studies have shown that Pilates improves quality of life by alleviating depression and pain and can make a positive impact on the lives of everyone regardless of age and fitness levels.
While Pilates is a great full-body workout for everyone, many aren’t aware of the options available to support their Pilates goals at home and are often faced with hefty membership costs in studios. Luckily, one women-owned company, PersonalHour, is providing people across the globe with studio-quality Pilates reformers for home fitness.
With a passion for mind-body balance, Nadia Yacoub, CEO & Founder, had always been looking for ways to balance her mind and body to stay focused. Having come from a stressful and busy background, finding a way to stay on track felt impossible until she discovered her love for Yoga and Pilates. For just one hour each week, Nadia takes a “personal hour” to devote time to her health and wellness, contributing to a happier, more balanced lifestyle.
For Nadia, value, trust, and love is at the foundation of PersonalHour. As a family business, the company’s roots began from Nadia’s home garage where her father, Nasim Shomali, hand-crafted her intricate designs. The first Pilates machine, “The Janet,” named lovingly in honor of Nadia’s mother, remains one of the company’s best-sellers.
Today, PersonalHour has grown into a multimillion dollar company in less than five years. In 2023, the company’s sales jumped from $50K to $1.3 million, which has already doubled halfway through 2024. By the end of the year, PersonalHour’s sales are projected to triple as more people focus on their health.
Recently, PersonalHour launched “The Archer,” a junior Pilates reformer that is specially designed to support kids ages 2 to 12 years old. Thanks to lighter resistance and its colorful and engaging design elements, the Archer makes Pilates fun for kids and encourages them to foster healthy lifestyles, starting at a young age.
With a wide selection of Pilates reformers today, PersonalHour is continuously conducting research and development analysis to create even better equipment at the most affordable prices with the best materials. This mindset, combined with Nadia’s deep passion for Zen, has led to PersonalHour’s organic growth. By investing in a healthier lifestyle, Nadia has created a way to not only help herself, but the people around her—just one hour at a time.
