The Essentials for Starting a Lagree Studio

Thinking about opening your very own Lagree studio? From finding the perfect space to marketing your studio, building your fitness business from the ground up is hard work—but it’s all about the journey and helping your community tap into their well-being. So what do you need to know as you embark on your Lagree business venture? Here’s our guide!

Finding the perfect location

Selecting the right location is super important for any new business, but especially for boutique fitness. You'll need to consider square footage, nearby competition, demographic factors, visibility, parking, and proximity to complementary businesses. Take your time evaluating all options—and don't rush this big choice!

Do you have enough space?
When it comes to Lagree studios, bigger is often better in terms of space. Plan for somewhere between 1,500 to 4,000 square feet if possible. This gives you room for 4-10 Megaformer machines, plus ample open floor space for mat exercises, stretching, using hand weights, etc.

You also need high ceilings (at least 10 feet) to properly rig up ropes, pulleys, and other equipment. Other must-haves in your space include:

• Private changing areas and bathrooms for clients
• A lobby or lounge area
• Retail space to sell merchandise
• Storage room for equipment, towels, cleaning supplies

Converting an existing commercial building into your studio can save money compared to costly new construction. Look for a space with an open layout and high ceilings that only requires minor renovations. This maintains the character of the building while saving your startup budget!

Scope out the competition
Research what other boutique fitness studios exist in the area you’re considering, especially other Lagree locations. Opening your studio in a market with zero competition sets you up for instant success drawing new clients. But a little competition isn't necessarily bad—it shows people in that area are interested in boutique fitness and willing to pay for it. If competitors already exist, look for a neighborhood or suburb lacking in studio options to fill that need.

You can also differentiate yourself from other Lagree studios by offering unique amenities like childcare, specialty class types, or more flexible membership options. This entices new clients from existing studios seeking something fresh and different.

Consider both demographics and average household income as well when choosing your location. Aim for a market with lots of young professionals, families with disposable income, and health-conscious individuals. Check out the hot barre or yoga studios and aim for similar clientele. You know your ideal members better than anyone!

Location impacts operating costs
One major factor to research is the cost of commercial real estate in your potential locations. Rental rates vary widely based on factors like:

• Exact city/neighborhood
• Building size, condition, and amenities
• Nearby housing costs and incomes
• Recent market demand and availability

In a major metro downtown, expect to pay $25-50 per square foot annually for newer, updated space. This cost often includes maintenance fees and taxes too. The lease term also impacts the monthly rate—longer leases of 5+ years may offer a discounted square footage rate.

Upfront costs will include the first and last month’s rent, a security deposit equal to 2-3 month’s rent, maintenance fees, and any required renovations or buildouts. Thoroughly understand all responsibilities for maintenance, trash collection, snow removal, taxes, and insurance before signing a lease agreement.

Equipping your studio

Outfitting your boutique fitness studio with top quality equipment is essential for delivering safe, effective, and results-driven Lagree workouts. Carefully select specialized equipment and accessories designed specifically for this unique workout method.

Megaformer machines
The Megaformer is the signature piece of equipment in a Lagree studio. This specialized Pilates machine features a sliding carriage attached to resistance cords and pulleys. Clients push and pull the movable carriage to build strength through low-impact, high-intensity movements.

Most standard Lagree studio layouts include 4-10 Megaformer machines, depending on available space. The more machines your studio contains, the more clients you can accommodate in classes. Individual Megaformers cost between $4,000-$6,000 each.

Only purchase Megaformer machines from the official Lagree Fitness equipment supplier. This ensures your equipment meets the strict quality and design standards to deliver safe, effective workouts. No cutting corners here!

Anchor your studio with bars and rigs
In addition to Megaformers, Lagree studios require specialized barres and rigs:

• Fixed barres are horizontal bars professionally bolted into the walls and/or floor. They provide stability during balance exercises.
• Adjustable barres are movable vertical bars that clients can raise or lower to customize intensity. Get multiple for ballet-inspired stretches and sculpting work.
• Mat rigs are wooden beam structures with eye bolts drilled in to attach resistance bands at varying heights. Excellent for targeted toning and strength moves.

Having anchors installed properly prevents equipment from slipping or collapsing during workouts—extremely important for safety!

Round out your equipment
Fill out your fitness space with versatile accessories like:

• Yoga mats for floor stretches and ab/core work
• Ankle and wrist weights in multiple sizes
• Foam rollers and massage balls to roll out tight muscles
• Variety of resistance bands, ropes, and straps
• Medicine balls, kettlebells, stability balls
• Water bottles, towels, cleaning spray

Shop specialty fitness retailers that produce high-quality gear. Expect delivery fees for large equipment, and order well in advance to avoid long lead times. Make sure you have everything on hand weeks before opening!

Caring for your equipment
Maintaining your pricey studio equipment keeps it performing properly while extending its lifespan. Follow all manufacturer instructions for cleaning machines and lubricating moving parts. Perform regular inspections, tightening hardware and replacing worn cords as needed.

Invest in an annual maintenance visit from a professional fitness technician. They'll perform comprehensive servicing and calibration for optimal function. Always document equipment repairs and schedule preventative maintenance in a detailed logbook. Treat your fitness gear well, and clients will enjoy the best, safest studio experience!

Building your Lagree dream team

Employing passionate, experienced staff members is critical for your studio to run smoothly and keep clients happy. Bring on both instructors and customer service roles who align with your brand vision.

Specialty training makes Lagree instructors shine
It takes intensive training to become a certified Lagree instructor ready to teach specialized Megaformer classes. Requirements include:

• Completing Lagree Fitness' rigorous instructor training program
• Holding a current Lagree Group Fitness certificate (renew annually!)
• Possessing current CPR and first aid certifications
• Having prior teaching experience in Pilates, yoga, personal training, or group fitness instruction
• Demonstrating an encouraging, motivating personality
• Committing to continual education and development

Vet candidates thoroughly and confirm they meet all qualifications before hiring. Attending their classes firsthand also assesses teaching skills. Choose instructors who balance motivation with proper form and safety. They represent your brand!

Staffing your studio
In addition to instructors, consider hiring:

• A studio manager to oversee daily operations, scheduling, hiring, accounts, etc. This gives you more time for high-level strategy and marketing.
• Friendly front desk staff to warmly check-in and check-out clients, answer questions, explain memberships, handle payments.
• Additional instructors beyond your leads to fill in for vacations, injuries, and allow for an expanded class schedule.
• A maintenance worker to keep the studio and equipment in order. Handle deep cleaning and immediate repairs so instructors can focus solely on teaching.

For a newer studio, conserve cash by only hiring the absolute essential roles first. As membership grows, slowly expand your team to match demand. But focus on quality over quantity—finding staff perfectly aligned with your brand saves headaches!

Marketing: Spread the word!

Implementing diverse yet targeted marketing and outreach is crucial for getting the word out about your fabulous new Lagree studio. Begin promoting early, and highlight what makes your studio unique compared to competitors.

Show off with a polished website
A professional website establishes credibility and shows you mean business. Work with designers to create a site that showcases your studio's sleek vibe. Display info like:

• Your location(s) and contact info
• Class types, schedule, pricing
• Membership options and online registration
• Instructor bios and team photos
• Client testimonials and before/after photos
• Blog or news page to share updates

Enable seamless online booking and payments to grow enrollment. Optimize your site for key search terms so you gain visibility and traffic. 

Leverage social media
Promote your studio consistently across popular platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok. Share eye-catching photos and videos of classes, instructors, clients, events, and results. Respond to all questions and comments quickly and accurately.

Run occasional social media promotions and giveaways—a free class for liking and sharing! Aim for organic engagement and growth by delivering value first. Capture client testimonials and fun moments to post online.

More marketing ideas

• Distribute professionally printed flyers and coupons at local businesses.
• Host free demo classes and invite media outlets to cover your launch.
• Throw a buzz-worthy launch party with local influencers.
• Partner with complementary wellness businesses like spas or shops for joint promotions.
• Sponsor a local race training team or fitness charity events.
• Run targeted Facebook/Instagram ads optimized with your ideal audience keywords.

Track the results of each initiative to determine the best channels for acquiring new clients. Keep marketing consistent, adjusting your plan based on data. The more eyes on your studio, the better!