Today we’d like to introduce you to Carolyn Bell.
Hi Carolyn , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In 2019, I collaborated with Fuse Ladder to open Ladder Athletics, in Estero, FL . Covid 19 shuts downs happened just before signing my lease and purchasing equipment. After the death of my husband, I reactivated my business plan and opened Happy Life Movement as the first Fuse Ladder studio and training center in Fort Myers, FL in April 2024. May 6, I had to have emergency back surgery. The studio suffered several closings and reopenings after I returned due to 2024 storm season. The studio has been open about 1 year, with over an 80% client retention rate. The studio is now hosting Fuse Ladder teacher certifications, Pilates and wall bars workshops, adding virtual training and is collaborating to help a teacher open a Fuse Ladder and Reformer studio in Naples, FL.
I started in Pilates in 2004. I was training by Legacy Teacher, Ron Fletcher. I was a member of the Pilates Method Alliance for many years. I served as an Ambassador to Lululemon Athletica. I was Assistant Director to the Pilates Conservatory certification program. I was a speaker internationally before my back injury. I am also certified in the Franklin Method and Fascial Stretch Therapy.
The Fuse Ladder, with its vertical Pilates orientation was instrumental in my speedy recovery from a back fusion.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
As mentioned, it has not been smooth. Besides the storms and physical challenge of returning to teaching movement, I have survived the financial burden of being closed multiple times. It is also challenging to convert Reformer Pilates clients to the benefits of vertical apparatuses in the era of Rformer studios, even though the results in strength and quicker progress are evident. .
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
The Fuse Ladder is the latest innovation in the world of Pilates. Not just a Tower or Cadillac based piece of equipment, the wall bars function allows the teacher to augment Pilates with functional fitness and calisthenics. The result is more strength and sculpting with in 1-3 times a week.
My contribution to vertical apparatuses has been to adapt the Pilates Method, the original work of Joe Pilates, to the Fuse Ladder. I am now teaching my unique approach to programming that focuses on strength and longevity. The vertical nature of my equipment makes Pilates, body conditioning and corrective exercise more accessible to a wider audience, such as youth athletes, those with nuerological disorders and even wheelchair bound. My youngest client is 6 and my oldest is 88!
I was thrilled to be recognized as one of the area’s Top 10 Transformative Wellness Experiences in 2025.
In the age of franchises and big boxes Pilates, I stand out as a decades old teacher, with expert anatomy and fascia background. I stand out because I chose to disrupt the current Pilates trend of providing Pilates equipment but routine fitness on the machines and selling it as Pilates.
CPA Erin Connors, Treasure Island, just purchased a Fuse Ladder for her home gym and I will be teaching her remotely.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
Happy Life Movement was inspired by the revolutionary equipment designed by Mariska Breland. I am a coaching client of Ramona Rogers, of Royal Influencers Organization. She has been a source of support and guidance as I have navigated business pitfalls and championing my work in the business communities she assists. With the help of J. Arlon Keegan, of Redfield Advisory, I am developing virtual training and tools for the home gym. In addition Keegan and Redfield Advisory is helping me launch a brand of casual and athleisure wear, made of natural fibers.
Pricing:
- Class pack is $125
- 1:1 Training is $125 in studio/virtual
- Get Stronger 30 class pack is $620
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.happylifemovement.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happylifemovementstudio/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Happy-Life-Movement-Studio-61555823277383/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappyLifeMovement-s2y
