Episode 27: Sonia Ahmed - The Pilates Physio
The Pilates Physio | Adelaide, South Australia
In this episode of Raising the Bar on the Future of Pilates, Kim sits down with Sonia Ahmed — physiotherapist, Pilates teacher, and founder of The Pilates Physio.
Originally from Adelaide, Sonia spent over a decade in the UK building her career in physiotherapy and clinical Pilates before returning home to Australia to rebuild her life and business from the ground up.
This is a thoughtful and honest conversation about growth, reinvention, and what it really takes to build a sustainable Pilates business with integrity.
In This Episode, We Cover:
1. Finding Pilates Through the “Back Door”
Sonia shares how she began teaching Pilates as a physiotherapist in rural England — stepping into mat classes with little preparation and learning confidence through experience.
2. Realising There Was More to Learn
After completing contemporary and clinical training, Sonia sensed gaps in her understanding of the system. This led her to invest again in classical training and rethink how Pilates fits together as a whole.
3. Building — and Rebuilding — a Business
From creating a successful home studio in London to returning to Adelaide and starting again from zero, Sonia speaks openly about leaving loyal clients, navigating uncertainty, and rebuilding sustainably.
4. The Role of Mentorship and Coaching
Working with a Pilates business coach helped Sonia move from hesitation to clarity. We discuss how support, structure, and confidence shape long-term business decisions.
5. The Current State of the Industry
We reflect on oversaturation, reformer franchises, industry dilution, and the importance of kindness and professionalism within the Pilates community.
Connect with Sonia:
Instagram: @pilatesphysiosa
Website: www.thepilatesphysio.com.au
If you're a Pilates studio owner looking for more clarity and sustainability in your business, you can download Kim’s free resource:
The Ultimate Studio Success Checklist for Pilates Studio Owners
A practical, step-by-step guide to building a studio that supports both you and your clients.
