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The Knockturnal: New York Pilates Founders on Creativity & Expansion

Brion isaacs and heather Andersen sit side by side on exercise equipment. The woman, one of the Pilates founders, wears a black New York Pilates crop top and shorts. Both are smiling against a white brick wall, New York Pilates Founders' vibe.

A Creative Upbringing That Shaped New York Pilates

New York Pilates Co-Founder Brion Isaacs grew up between New York City and Puerto Rico. Because his family worked in music, art, design, and hospitality, he absorbed creativity early. He stocked shelves at Lee’s Art Shop and sold t-shirts at the Puerto Rican Day Parade. As a result, he developed strong instincts for culture and commerce. Consequently, these experiences shaped his future vision for New York Pilates.

The Knockturnal highlights his path from drummer and DJ to designer and creative director. Moreover, Brion launched Rivington Design House before co-founding NYP with Heather Andersen. In addition, their shared background in movement and art continues to influence every studio today. Therefore, their creative partnership remains central to the NYP brand.

Building a Pilates Empire With Rhythm, Design & Leadership

Brion and Heather opened their first NYP studio in 2013. They built it with friends and used gig income to fund the work. Because of this hands-on start, the brand grew with purpose and precision. Today, New York Pilates has eight locationsacross NYC and the Hamptons. As a result, NYP has become a leader in boutique fitness.

Brion compares opening studios to “learning a drumbeat.” Each location becomes faster, cleaner, and more refined. Consequently, their design decisions and leadership practices improved with every new space. The Knockturnal also explores Brion’s return to music, which, in fact, shapes the sound and energy in every NYP class. Ultimately, rhythm remains a core part of the New York Pilates experience.

Read the Full Feature

As featured in The Knockturnal, New York Pilates continues to shape boutique wellness through design, rhythm, and modern Reformer technique.

➡️ Read the full article on The Knockturnal
By Rebecca Eugene — Published April 11, 2023

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