For Pilates Addiction franchisees Shelley and Matt Crawford, business ownership wasn’t about leaving their careers behind. It was about building something alongside them. Based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the couple was introduced to franchising through a consultant who matched them with opportunities that aligned with their goals. They explored several industries before landing on Pilates Addiction, drawn in by the brand’s elevated approach to boutique fitness. By Shelby Green
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A FRANCHISEE
For Pilates Addiction franchisees Shelley and Matt Crawford, business ownership wasn’t about leaving their careers behind. It was about building something alongside them. Based in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the couple was introduced to franchising through a consultant who matched them with opportunities that aligned with their goals. They explored several industries before landing on Pilates Addiction, drawn in by the brand’s elevated approach to boutique fitness.
“What really stood out was the leadership team and the concept itself,” Shelley said. “It felt like Pilates was rethought. The studio is elegant, strong and inviting. It’s not what people expect when they think of traditional Pilates spaces.”
The Crawfords came in with strong professional backgrounds but had no prior business ownership experience. That’s where the brand’s support system made a difference. From real estate guidance to ongoing calls and training, Pilates Addiction helped them navigate each step of the process with confidence.
“They really hold your hand through everything,” Shelley said. “From weekly check-ins to helping you understand things like commercial real estate; they make sure you’re never figuring it out alone.”
While some franchisees operate their studios full-time, the Crawfords take a flexible approach to ownership. They continue working in their respective industries while building their studio during evenings and weekends. Their routine blends structured corporate workdays with hands-on involvement in growing their business and supporting their team.
For Shelley and Matt, owning a Pilates Addiction studio is about building something meaningful in a way that fits their lives. It’s a steady, hands-on effort that continues to grow over time.
This is what a typical day looks like for the Crawfords:
7 a.m. The couple performs a quick check of studio metrics, including memberships, bookings and any overnight updates.
7:30 a.m. Throughout the day, they stay in touch with the studio manager for quick updates or to make decisions as needed.
5:30 p.m. They wrap up their full-time roles and transition into studio mode. As needed, Matt focuses on backend operations, including accounting, insurance and construction updates.
6 p.m. They collaborate with the studio manager on scheduling, instructors and priorities for the week. They also review leads and connect on sales activity, stepping in on hot prospects when helpful.
7 p.m. The couple plans grassroots marketing efforts and local community events. At the end of the evening, they do a final check on performance across memberships, drop-ins and retail.
Shelby Green