Andy Gentner is the owner of the new Club Pilates studio that recently opened in Uptown Park Ridge at 70 N. Northwest Highway.
Gentner, who also owns a Club Pilates franchise in St. Charles, said his studio largely focuses on reformer Pilates, which involves the use of a resistance device. Classes are open to all ages, he said, and it’s not unusual to find a range of generations in one class.
Prior to becoming a franchise owner, Gentner worked as a mechanic for United Airlines for more than 30 years. He has also owned Massage Envy and European Wax Center franchises as well, he said.
Q: How many classes does your studio offer?
A: We started with 50, but we’re approaching up to 80 a week. We’re basically open from 5:30 a.m., and our last class starts at 8 p.m. when we’re fully scheduled.
Q: Have you done Pilates yourself?
A: Yes, I’ve taken several classes and just realized what it can do for me in terms of body awareness. I have poor posture, and this has helped me. Those times when I’m sitting in a chair, instead of slouching over, by tightening my core and sitting straight up it has alleviated some back pain. This has helped me by keeping the lower part of my back nice and tight. Pilates strengthened that part of it.
Q: How many instructors do you have?
A: We have five instructors working there. We’ll be heading toward hopefully nine. We also have an amazing teacher training program.
Q: Why did you choose to open a Pilates studio in Park Ridge?
A: I wasn’t going to do a franchise unless I found a site I was really excited about. In Park Ridge, it just really hit the demographic right, and they’ve got great underground parking there in Uptown. Park Ridge is limited on retail spaces and that one just happened to be open at the time I was looking.
Q: What are some of your interests?
A: I enjoy golfing and traveling. If I was given a free trip to Hawaii to go golfing, I would probably do it.
Twitter: @Jen_Tribune
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