Meet Marion, the founder of Pilates On Plains in Aldershot, Burlington. What started as a personal passion for Pilates became an opportunity to create something even more meaningful – a welcoming studio where people can build strength, improve mobility, and feel supported from the moment they walk through the door.
Inspired by her own experience overcoming pain, Marion believes fitness should be approachable and personal. At Pilates On Plains, the focus isn’t just on movement – it’s on helping people feel stronger, healthier, and more confident in everyday life.
We asked Marion a few questions to learn more about her journey, what inspired Pilates On Plains, and why she chose to build her business in Aldershot.
Why did you choose Aldershot for your business?
We moved to Aldershot 2 & 1/2 years ago. At that point in time I had no aspirations about opening a business…I fell in love with the ‘home town’ vibe Aldershot has to it. It didn’t take me long to realize I wanted to big a bigger part of this community. Pilates was a natural fit for me….I wanted to create more than just a Pilates studio though. I wanted to build a place where people felt welcomed, encouraged, and cared for from the moment they walked through the door. Aldershot has become the perfect place to do that.
What Sets Pilates On Plains Apart?
We don’t believe fitness should be intimidating. At Pilates On Plains, every client is welcomed by name. Your goals matter, and we take the time to understand why you’re here before we ever think about a workout.
Whether you want to get out of pain, return to a sport you love, keep up with your kids, prepare for your wedding, or simply feel strong again, we believe relationships come first and workouts come second.
I know what it’s like to feel like your body has let you down.
Last year, severe back pain left me virtually immobilized for the entire summer. I was seeing my doctor and physiotherapist every week. I had cortisone injections, dry needling, and more than 50 needles in my back every single week. If you’ve ever had dry needling, you know exactly what I’m talking about.
Then one morning I decided something had to change. I went downstairs, dusted off my reformer, and committed to using it every day. Today, at 62 years old, I’m stronger than I’ve ever been.
That experience changed my life, and it’s why Pilates On Plains exists. My goal isn’t simply to teach Pilates. It’s to help people rediscover what their bodies are capable of, one class at a time.
Strong isn’t a phase. It’s a decision.
What is your specialty product or service?
We specialize in small group reformer Pilates classes, that focuses on building strength, improving mobility, reducing pain, and helping people move better in everyday life. We also offer wellness services with our amazing spa treatments because we believe feeling your best is about caring for both your body and your mind. We think of ourselves as a one stop wellness shop. Over and above all of that, my clients know my door is always open even if it’s just for a cup of tea and chat….because some days that’s exactly what you need.
What do you love about Aldershot and what is your favourite business to visit in our BIA?
What I love most about Aldershot is the people I have met. There’s a genuine small town feel where businesses support one another and customers become friends.
My favourite place to visit is definitely the Home Hardware. Every time I walk through the door, it feels exactly like their name suggests…home. The store is spotless, the staff are incredibly knowledgeable, and they’re always friendly and welcoming. They even make a fuss over my dog, Tank, whenever he comes in with me. It’s a wonderful example of the kind of customer experience every local business should strive to create.
What would you like the Aldershot community to know about you and your business?
Pilates On Plains is for real people, not perfect people.
You don’t have to be flexible. You don’t have to be fit. You don’t even have to know what a reformer is….trust me, many don’t when they come through our doors.
If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “I used to be fit,” or you’ve been putting everyone else first for too long, we’d love to meet you. Our goal is to help you feel stronger, healthier, and more confident, one class at a time.
When you walk into our studio, you’re not just joining a fitness class. You’re joining a community that genuinely wants to see you succeed.
At Pilates On Plains, the goal is simple: help people move better and feel better. Marion has created a welcoming space where clients are encouraged at their own pace and supported every step of the way. Whether you’re trying Pilates for the first time or returning to movement after time away, you’ll find a community that’s genuinely happy to see you succeed.
Pilates On Plains
#30 – 100 Plains Rd. West
Burlington, Ontario
Follow Pilates On Plains on Instagram
Marion has created a welcoming space where clients are encouraged at their own pace and supported every step of the way. At Pilates On Plains, the goal is simple: help people move better and feel better. Whether you’re trying Pilates for the first time or returning to movement after time away, you’ll find a community that’s genuinely happy to see you succeed.
