Today we’d like to introduce you to Robin Taylor.
Robin, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Fitness is my first love, but coaching is my second career. I trained recklessly during both of my pregnancies, damaged my body and had to take healing into my own hands. I studied Corrective Exercise and further specialized in PPN (pre/postnatal training) and Diastasis Recti and Core rehabilitation. After I finished my certifications, I started teaching free classes in a park. It was a great way for me to test my technique and build an approach to fitness that felt authentic and supportive.
A turning point was when I joined the coaching team at KOR Strength and Conditioning. I was able to further refine my coaching style and also received great mentorship in kettlebell technique and training. I realized I had a gift for PPN populations and those recovering from illness and injury – and could get them using heavier weights with control and good form. Interestingly, the training principles I apply to PPN clients are the same I use with my male clients or women who have never had a baby. Solid coaching grounded in empirically-validated techniques is good for all bodies!
When KOR closed, I knew it was time to expand my philosophy into my own studio. I opened the doors of MVMNT Studio in December 2019 and I haven’t looked back!
Has it been a smooth road?
Entrepreneurship is never easy and I don’t think there could be a more challenging time to launch a brick-and-mortar fitness studio than a during a global pandemic. I was forced to close my doors for three solid months as we all went into quarantine. But there has been a silver-lining. I discovered that while I love the energy of in-person coaching, I could be just as effective via video conference. I restructured my business model to meet the limitations caused by quarantine and found ways to continue to serve my clients. And most importantly, I was able to keep their bodies moving and their morale high during an incredibly stressful and demoralizing time for us collectively. I firmly believe that we grow through challenges – the hard work of entrepreneurship is also incredibly gratifying. This time has shown that I am capable of incredible resiliency as a coach and business owner.
Please tell us about MVMNT Studio.
I believe that fitness can have a transformative effect on our health and well-being. And I’ve found that transformation to be most sustainable through consistent, individualized programming by a skilled coach. MVMNT Studio upholds that philosophy by specializing in semi-private training, with a four client maximum at each session. Each member gets personal, one-on-one programming and coaching based on their unique bodies’ needs and personal goals, every session, without exception. This philosophy of quality over quantity has never been more important than in our post-COVID world.
I also believe that the most effective coaches are able to seamlessly blend the art and science of training. The art of training can be hard to teach – either you have it, or you don’t. But the science takes dedication and effort to build and maintain. This is especially important for Pre/Post Natal women – which is my training specialty. Every body, but especially pregnant and post-partum bodies, deserve the guidance of a specialized coach. That means staying current with research (not trends!) and holding myself to a constant process of continuing education. In 2020 alone, I’ve completed certification/licensures:
As a Functional Range Conditioning Mobility Specialist (FRCms) from Functional Range Conditioning and a Pregnancy-Safe Elite Coach by Fit for Birth – the premier organization in continuing education for PPN coaches. Both of these designations require that I stay current with my training, research and education, ensuring that PPN and all my clients get the most comprehensive and up-to-date coaching available.
If you love the concept of MVMNT Studio, you should know that the studio is available for rental! The space can be used as-is with existing equipment in place for training 1:1 clients or small groups. However, all equipment is mobile and the space can be transformed to accommodate photo shoots, private events, etc.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I think we’ve already seen where the fitness industry is going in terms of sustainability. Resilient studios and gyms had to make hard pivots during COVID-19 and learned new ways of doing “fitness” in the process. These new ways (virtual/online coaching, smaller class sizes, enhanced cleaning procedures) are never going away and they only makes us better equipped to keep people healthy and to move regardless of challenges.
I am also hopeful that consumers will begin looking at fitness through the lens of preventative medicine and less from an aesthetic perspective. I encourage consumers to “interview” their coaches: Ask what certifications they hold and what they’re doing to keep their knowledge current. Ask for client references and actually call them! A high-quality coach is not going to be offended by your questions. And if they are, they’re not right for you (or anyone!).
Pricing:
- One-on-One, Private Sessions: Beginning at $110/hr
- Semi-Private Studio Membership: $330/mo
Contact Info:
- Address: 5702 El Cajon Boulevard, San Diego, 92115
- Website: mvmntstudio.com
- Phone: 6192289516
- Email: robin@mvmntstudio.com
- Instagram: @mvmntstudiosd
- Facebook: mvmntstudiosd
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