Alice Bucks PilatesName: Alice Milner

Family members: Ben (husband), Hudson (2) and Tallulah (9months).

Previous career: Primary School Teacher (also current career).

Name & description of your business:

Bucks Pilates – Antenatal & Postnatal Classes. My Pilates classes are relaxed, friendly, fun and full of useful exercises to give pregnant ladies a more comfortable birth and postnatal recovery. I incorporate many useful exercises to help strengthen key back and abdominal muscles to support your growing baby. A strong core will prevent back problems, help make pushing during labour easier and more effective and ensure a faster postnatal recovery. My classes help you prepare for an active labour and birth with essential pelvic floor exercises and breathing techniques.

Postpartum, the Pilates Method retrains the tummy area from the inside out, helping you strengthen the deep abdominal muscles and maximise recovery of the pelvic floor muscles. I believe every pregnant lady deserves to take time out to strengthen their body and mind. My classes provide an opportunity to meet other local mums while maintaining your muscle tone and getting fit for delivery!

What gave you the inspiration to start your own business?

I have always had a passion for Pilates. During my first pregnancy I realised just how valuable Pilates is during pregnancy to improve core strength and release tension, particularly in the lower back. The whole experience of pregnancy and the birth of my son inspired me to specialise in antenatal and postnatal Pilates. I want to share my knowledge about the multitude of benefits of the Pilates Method with every pregnant lady and mum.

How did you go from having an idea to getting the business up and running?

The passion to specialise in antenatal and postnatal Pilates was already instilled. I gained the necessary qualifications to ensure I had the most up to date knowledge to provide safe and effective teaching. After deciding on the name of my business, I created a website. Eagerly anticipating whether there was a demand for my business. I hesitantly booked an slot at a local hall. I was geniunely overwhelmed with the interest I have received since starting Bucks Pilates. I am a huge believer in ‘word of mouth’ and ‘recommendations’ as the best type of marketing tool and it hasn’t let me down yet.

How do you juggle running a business and family life?

Juggling a husband, a 2 year old, a 9 month old, a dog, 2 cats, a tortoise and 2 fish with running a business and teaching at a local Primary School 2 days a week (my other passion!) is somewhat challenging, but I wouldn’t change it for the world! I believe it’s important to have realistic goals, good time management and impeccable organisation. Then when you have a day when it all goes wrong, well… you need a good sense of humour, the support of your friends and family, and most importantly a good bottle of wine! I also make sure I have some ‘me time’ once a month by visiting my amazing acupuncturist, Steve Brown www.stevebrownacupuncture.co.uk

What’s your favourite family activity?

You can’t beat a long family dog walk through the Chiltern countryside followed by a good old pub lunch. 

What’s the best & worst thing about having your own business?

It is so exciting being able to turn my dream into reality. Helping my ladies benefit from Pilates and watching them fall in love with the Pilates Method is exhilarating! The worst thing would have to be juggling all the competing priorities in my life, which can be quite exhausting!

What advice would you give new mumpreneurs?

Choose a business you are passionate about, something that’s a pleasure, not a chore. Make sure you can fit it around your family, as inevitably your family will always be your priority.

Where would you like to be in 5 years time?

My other passion is teaching children. I currently teach at Gateway School in Great Missenden 2 days a week. I would like to combine my two passions by making school children aware of their posture and the importance of looking after their back from an early age.

 

Website address: www.buckspilates.com