Stretch, Strengthen, Sustain: Sarah Meinert’s Holistic Approach to Wellness at Ozean Pilates & Wellness
Mind, Body, Business: How To Build a Wellness Business That’s Changing Lives
When Sarah Meinert walked into her first pilates class, she didn’t expect it to change the course of her life. But when she found herself struggling to keep up with a 70-something-year-old instructor who moved with strength and grace, something clicked. Sarah was hooked—not just on the practice, but on the idea that movement, when approached with intention, could transform lives.
Today, Sarah is the founder and owner of Ozean Pilates & Wellness, a Southern California-based studio that’s far more than a place to stretch and strengthen. With a growing roster of private and virtual clients around the world, Sarah is redefining wellness with a blend of personalized Pilates instruction, mind-body coaching, and deep commitment to whole-body health.
In our interview on The Wild Party Podcast, Sarah shared the journey behind her thriving business—from college student to certified Pilates instructor, professional dancer, dog trainer, and now entrepreneur. And every step of her story speaks to the power of showing up, staying consistent, and tuning in to what your body—and your clients—really need.
From Movement to Mission
Sarah’s introduction to pilates came from a community class, but it was the results—and the wisdom of that seasoned instructor—that sparked her deeper interest. She went on to complete a comprehensive certification, learning the full system of mat work and Pilates apparatuses designed by Joseph Pilates himself.
At the same time, Sarah’s background in Tahitian dance and years of volunteer work with Guide Dogs for the Blind taught her how movement affects functionality. Whether performing high-intensity choreography or training large, strong service animals, she saw firsthand how Pilates supported strength, balance, and injury prevention.
“I realized how pilates could balance out repetitive movement and build strength in a more even, sustainable way,” Sarah explained. “It made me better in everything I did.”
The Birth of Ozean Pilates
After working for several studio owners and even sharing space with a friend, Sarah eventually found herself standing solo—with a loyal client base, a vision for something more, and the determination to build it.
“I thought, I’ve learned so much from working with others. Why not bring my own vision to life?”
And so she did. Ozean Pilates & Wellness was born in Southern California, where Sarah combined everything she learned—about movement, business, and wellness—into a studio experience designed to meet clients exactly where they are.
More Than Just Pilates
What makes Sarah’s approach unique is her integration of mind and body coaching into every session. She doesn’t just lead exercises—she personalizes routines based on structural assessment, lifestyle goals, and even internal health.
“If a client is always tight, we might talk about hydration, protein intake, or even adding arnica after a minor injury. It’s about supporting the body holistically,” she says.
Whether someone is recovering from surgery, struggling with chronic stress, or simply trying to feel stronger, Sarah tailors a program that includes movement, mindset, and sometimes even supplements or smoothie recipes to optimize results.
From Studio to Screen
One of the best things to come from the pandemic, according to Sarah, was the widespread acceptance of virtual training. When lockdowns closed studios, her clients logged on. Many still do.
Today, Sarah teaches private and duet sessions to clients across the country and around the globe—from New York and Miami to Australia and Norway. Her digital offerings provide flexibility for travelers and a new revenue stream that keeps her business nimble.
The Business Side of Wellness
Of course, owning a studio isn’t just stretching and smiles. Sarah is deeply organized, running her business with daily, weekly, and monthly checklists, spreadsheet systems, and a focused schedule. She’s partnered with a PR and marketing firm to streamline her messaging and attract the right clients—especially in a competitive market like Southern California.
“I had to learn to be consistent, not just with my teaching but in how I show up online, how my website reflects my work, and how I follow through on what I promise.”
Sarah also credits client feedback as one of her best tools for developing new offerings—like retreats, workshops, and collaborative events with other wellness professionals. “When someone tells me what they want to learn, I listen. That’s how I build programs that truly serve them.”
The Power of Showing Up
When I asked Sarah what it takes to succeed in Pilates—or business—her answer was simple:
“Consistency and commitment. You have to show up. Pilates has a longer learning curve than many workouts. You’re building a neurological connection between your brain and your body. That takes time—but the results are worth it.”
Sarah takes her clients through progressive, customized sessions using reformers, Cadillacs, and even the challenging Wanda Chair (which, full confession, I had never heard of before our chat!). No session is the same, but every one is a full-body workout—one that emphasizes form, focus, and true transformation.
Time To Move With Purpose
Whether you’re a business owner, a busy professional, or someone looking to reconnect with your health, Sarah’s message is clear: wellness isn’t a luxury—it’s foundational. And with the right support, structure, and spirit, you can build a body—and a life—that’s strong, balanced, and deeply joyful.
To learn more about Sarah or book a session, visit ozeanpilateswellness.com
