Joe's Pila-T-Shop

MindBody Online Revolutionizes Studio Management

Scoop of the Week: Pilates Stuff I Love!

It's hard to remember life before internet, cell phones, digital cameras, or even television remote controls.  Gotta love technology! You know what else I can't imagine living without? Mind-Body Online software in the Pilates Studio!  I can barely remember the "old school" version of scheduling client sessions on the over-sized monthly planner at the front desk with worn out erasers close-by.

Nothing beats this user-friendly software that's available 24/7 to manage business operations, organize client schedules, analyze studio trends, market special events and allow instructors to be in greater control of managing their schedules.  I was first introduced to it as an employee at Power Pilates at Equinox Westwood.  As a Pilates instructor, it was the first time I ever felt in control of my schedule.  Long gone were the days that I'd show up for a 7am appointment on a Saturday morning to find out that my client had canceled the day before.  I finally had 24/7 access to my schedule without relying on front desk staff to call and give me updates on schedule changes or vice-versa.  What a relief for front desk staff who could finally focus on helping clients. 

Now that I manage a Pilates Studio, I can't imagine how it was done without Mind-Body Online.  I still haven't taken advantage of all of the features and I'm constantly learning new ways Mind-Body Online can assist me in running the studio smoothly and effectively.  Thank god for the online tutorial that simplifies everything.  In the 2 months I've worked as a manager so far, I primarily use it for scheduling clients, tracking their attendance history, and analyzing studio usage trends.  But today, I learned that I can create e-mail blasts for members in our data-base.  For example, I can track everyone that has come in for a 30 minute complimentary session yet hasn't purchased a series of Pilates sessions.  Tomorrow, I'll send an e-mail blast inviting them to embark upon their Pilates practice with private Pilates session or our more affordable reformer classes.  We'll see what happens... but I love that it's a simple option to continue marketing our studio.  In the future I'll be able to promote special Pilates events at the club, too. 

Today, I also discovered that I can track instructor productivity and work with them at building their schedules.  Plus, by analyzing usage trends I can more accurately assess the needs of our fitness club members and determine when and where to re-arrange the schedule to best accommodate their interests and needs. 

I know there's a lot more that I'll learn and discover along the way as with everything new.  But I'm so happy that Equinox Fitness saw the value of using Mind-Body Online to organize our Pilates Studioss.  It heps me feel organized, efficient and professional.

Rock Your Powerhouse!

Kira

Joseph Pilates: Self Care = Progress

Joseph Pilates: quotes from a genius

"Were man to devote as much time and energy to himself as he has devoted to that which man has produced, what astounding and unbelievable progress would be made; a progress eclipsing all he has so far successfully accomplished..." Joseph Pilates

BALANCE.  Yes, even Mr. Pilates believed in the importance of finding balance in life.  He witnessed amongst his contemporaries a single-minded focus toward "success" that was defined by financial and material gain. I wonder what he would think of today's society. 

I know far too well how easy it is to slip into what I call "survival mode"; when you lose yourself to work and forget about the importance of play.  We tend to associate play with kids.  Adults work to maintain a roof overhead and food on the table.  But there's so much more to life.  There's so much out there to enjoy!  This is re-confirmed for me every single time I decide to step away from the computer or out of the Pilates studio and meet a friend for coffee.  Or when I decide to go see a live performance.  Or when I talk a walk around Lake Balboa with my dog.  Or when I go on a date with my husband.  Or when I take a fitness/movement class completely unrelated to Pilates.  Or when I go to the Korean Spa and soak in the baths. 

I find that when I take time out for myself, I have much greater joy in my life.  My relationships thrive, I'm more creative, inspired, driven, focused and light-hearted.  My smile even feels more genuine.  Not to mention, I'm a better wife, friend, dog-owner, business-owner, manager, Pilates instructor etc. Perhaps this is the "progress" Mr. Pilates spoke of... BALANCE.

Muscles of the Powerhouse: TRANSVERSE ABDOMINUS

Muscle Madness: designing the Pilates body

The TRANSVERSE ABDOMINUS is an important stabilizer muscle of our "powerhouse" aka "core".  Its horizontal fibers wrap around our mid-sections and serve as an internal corset that stabilizes the spine and pelvis.  Learning to engage this muscle allows our bodies to move more efficiently; not just during a Pilates session but in all of our daily activities.  When our stabilizer muscles don't perform their jobs, our neuromuscular systems go haywire trying to recruit "back-up" muscles to create stability; muscles that were designed for an entirely different purpose.  This neuromuscular confusion is a contributing factor to chronic pain and injury.

One of the easiest ways to discover the transverse abdominus is to breathe fully.  Why?  The TA plays a major role in forceful exhalation. A cue that I learned from one of my teachers is to "Exhale.  And when you feel as if you have no more 'exhale' left in you... exhale a little more."  Mr. Pilates even said to "squeeze every atom of air out of your lungs". Notice how your forceful exhale compresses your ribs and abdominals and creates trunk stability.  One way to somewhat palpate the muscle  (although its actually too deep touch) is to lie supine and place your fingertips on both ASIS bones (the front corners of your hips).  Then, slide your fingertips toward your midline about one inch and gently press into the tissue. Exhale fully until you feel a contraction beneath your fingertips.  You should feel your abdominals "scoop" away from your fingertips.  The challenge is to create that same "scoop" during every Pilates exercise.  I always try to "hollow" out the space between my ASIS bones.  The moment I see that "pooch", say, during The Hundred; I know I'm disconnected from my TA and need to lift my legs a little higher, focus on my breath and draw my abs in.

 
ANATOMY OF THE
TRANSVERSE ABDOMINUS

The TA is the deepest layer of the abdominal muscles; deep to the internal obliques, external obliques and rectus abdominus. 

Its horizontal fibers originate from the anterior iliac crest, inguinal ligament (the front of the hip bones), the lumbar fascia, the diaphragm and the cartilage of the bottom 6 ribs.  It inserts at the xiphoid process (the bottom of the chest bone), the linea alba (fibrous ridge at the center of the rectus abdominus), and the pubic bone.

STABILITY = FREEDOM
The TA provides the stability our bodies need for efficient movement.   It's the difference between walking on thin ice versus walking on pavement.  We can walk on ice but it takes a lot of extra effort to maintain stability let alone take big confident steps.  On pavement, however, we can walk, run, skip, leap and twirl with ease and confidence.  Similarly, a strong transverse abdominus provides a solid platform for the rest of our muscles to move freely with minimal effort.  So, as a result of developing a strong TA, our workouts become a lot more effective, we prevent injuries and we create a narrow ,tapered waistline in the process.

Rock Your Powerhouse!

Kira

Vita-Mix: Treat Yourself to Nutritious Living

Feel Good Fridays: treat yourself to nutritious living


Okay, so we broke down and bought a $450 blender at the Body-Mind-Spirit Conference!  How could we resist after a weekend of mouthwatering smoothies samples?  To justify our purchase... it’s more than just a blender; it’s a Vita-Mix.  Honestly, I’ve been eying the darn thing for years but as you can see, it’s an investment, to say the least.  We finally made the splurge because it’s a blender, food processor, juicer all in one.  And what makes it so unique is it’s ability to juice whole foods; breaking them down to their cellular level and retain the nutritional content. 

My favorite quick treat is a super-fast sorbet I make by simply putting the following ingredients in the container and giving it a whirl for about 1 minute:

Mixed Berry Sorbet

• 1 cup Yogurt (I use goat's milk yogurt)

• 1, 16oz bag of frozen mixed berries from Trader Joe's (blueberries, blackberries & strawberries)

• Maple Syrup (to taste)

Place all the ingredients in the VITA-MIX in the above order.  Blend for about 1 minute and enjoy. Really, that's it!

Let me tell you... absolutely nothing beats this deliciously sweet, healthy frozen treat in this LA heat. (Today it was a little over 100 degrees in the San Fernando Valley).  I've only made sorbets so far.  That's all I've had time for.  But you can make everything from ice cream to fresh vegetable or fruit juices and hot soup.  You can grind whole coffee beans and whole grains or knead dough for homemade bread.  You can make your own nut butters and chop your own fresh herbs.  The list of possibilities is endless.  I'll keep you posted on any great recipes I discover.  In the meantime, check out the demo below and...

Rock Your Powerhouse!

Kira

Jay Grimes: A Pilates Elder in Los Angeles

Scoop of the Week: Interview with Pilates Elder, Jay Grimes

Besides the fact that my friend, Ana Caban (also one of our most recently featured Pilates Instructors), is on the current cover of Pilates Style Magazine with an article about building Bootylicious buns; there's an AWESOME interview in there that you MUST READ!

If you don't know who Jay Grimes is yet, go get your copy of Pilates Style and turn to page 83.  It's an incredibly candid interview conducted by Siri Galliano with first-generation, master teacher who had the rare privilege of training with both Joseph and Clara Pilates.  He talks about everything from Mr. Pilates' original NYC studio and his intimidating presence to his own personal views on the business of Pilates today.  The interview alone provides insight to his youthful energy, passion for Pilates and dedication to preserving his unique experience and spreading it to others with integrity.

I feel extremely fortunate that he lives right here in Los Angeles and that on June 8th, I'll be attending a workshop with Mr. Grimes, himself, at Estrela Pilates in Beverly Hills.  I'll be sure to tell you all about it!

Rock Your Powerhouse!

Kira

Joseph Pilates' Advice on Progressing Clients

Joseph Pilates: quotes from a genius

"...beginning with the introductory lesson, each succeeding exercise should be mastered before proceeding progressively with the following exercises.  Make a close study of  each exercise and do not attempt any other exercise until you first have mastered the current one and know its routine down to the last detail..." -- Joseph Pilates 

One of the most challenging elements about the art of teaching Pilates is knowing how and when to progress clients.  How can we keep them challenged, interested and excited about coming to the studio while training them in a way that truly "develops the body uniformly, corrects wrong postures, restores physical vitality, invigorates the mind, and elevates the spirit". 

I was so intrigued by this quote that I had to dig a little deeper into Mr. Pilates words and marinate on them.  He said that each exercise should be "mastered"...
To identify whether or not a client has truly "mastered" an exercise I generally look for the following clues:

1. centering
2. concentration
3. control
4. precision
5. flow
6. breath

Yep, I ask myself whether or not they're applying good ol' Pilates principles to each exercise in their session?  If not, I ask myself what I have to do as a teacher to give them this true Pilates experience?

Something else I try to remember is to make each exercise increasingly challenging by layering my cues.  For example, once clients have mastered the ability to initiate the Footwork Series on the reformer from their powerhouse and sustain their scoop through each repetition, I shift the focus to working with a neutral pelvis.  Once they can keep their powerhouse scooped and pelvis in neutral, I add the detail of "hugging your midline".  Once they can "scoop their powerhouse", maintain neutral pelvis and "hug their midline", I add cues for their shoulder girdle.  I love it when clients have little "AHA!" moments because they're experiencing the same work with much deeper connections.

Also, when I focus on the details, clients are less inclined to beg for "harder" exercises.  They get so much satisfaction out of mastering what they know.  Once they've got the "heart and soul" of Pilates in their body (the beginner system) it's so much easier to "progressively" add intermediate exercises to their session because they have such a strong foundation to build upon.  Plus, all of that work serves as a magnifying glass to see clearly what their body needs next from Pilates.  I ask myself which exercises I can add that will help bring uniformity to their body?  Based on the way the way they move, I look for exercises that might increase lumbar flexion/ articulation, thoracic extension, pelvic/scapular stability, spinal rotation, leg strength, arm strength etc. etc.   I believe that critical thinking is the key to make intelligent choices while training our clients; choices that will change the way they look, feel and move in their bodies.  It should never be as easy as picking an exercise out of a hat. 

As Pilates instructors, it's helpful to create lesson plans for our clients, just as school teachers do.  Then, their training isn't haphazard.  It's a strategically planned program designed specifically for them that enables them to develop proficiency in the work and move forward in gradual stages.

Rock Your Powerhouse!

Kira

Joe's Disciples: Local Power Pilates Studios Give Back to Community

Joe's Disciples: Power Pilates Instructors of Santa Monica & Westwood give back

I was fortunate enough to be part of a similar Power Pilates event held on Pilates Day '07 to benefit St. Jude Children's Hospital.  Quite honestly, I had never done Pilates outdoors before and absolutely nothing compares to a vigorous Pilates workout beneath the blue sky with the cool ocean breeze relieving you from the heat of the sun.  Curious people spontaneously stopped their leisurely strolls to participate in Pilates Mat classes and generously donated to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.  It was an incredibly satisfying day.  I'm so happy Nicole Dowell, the local Power Pilates studio manager, is continuing the studios' tradition of giving back to the community with fun events on the beach.
 

PILATES IN THE PARK EVENT TO BENEFIT ST. JUDE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL
SANTA MONICA, CA – Enjoy a free 45-minute Pilates mat workout among the breeze of the ocean and the warm sun on Sunday, June 1st sponsored by Power Pilates.  Open Mat Pilates Classes will be given by certified Pilates instructors from 8am until 12:30pm in Palisades Park on Ocean Avenue between Montana and Palisades with donations accepted to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.   No experience is needed.  In addition, Power Pilates has partnered with O2MAX Fitness to offer two unique and exciting fitness classes for teens at 11:30pm and 12:00noon.

(Power Pilates Instructor, Alyssa Kahn-Hoffman, teaching on the beach)

All classes are free to participants, but donations made will help raise funds for children of the world who are stricken with diseases like cancer, AIDS and Sickle Cell Anemia.  St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is internationally recognized for its pioneering work in finding cures and saving children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases.   Founded by the late entertainer, Danny Thomas, and based in Memphis, Tenn., St. Jude freely shares its discoveries with scientific and medical communities around the world.  No family ever pays for treatments not covered by insurance, and families without insurance are never asked to pay.

Power Pilates is a New York-based classical style Pilates teacher-training program with studios located in Santa Monica and Westwood.  O2 MAX Fitness, located also in Santa Monica, offers fitness programs designed specifically for teenagers.

For more information about this event, please call Power Pilates at 310-587-2409 or email PowerPilatesWest@gmail.com. Find more details on O2Max Fitness at www.O2MaxFitness.com.  For information on St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, please visit www.stjude.org.

Here are some teachers you can look forward to taking class with or training alongside of (They also happen to be huge supporters of Joe's Pila-T-Shop!):

Shari Berkowitz
Director of West Coast Education for Power Pilates/Owner of The Vertical Workshop

   

Jordan Gawinski
Power Pilates, Santa Monica

Eric Valdes
Power Pilates, Westwood

Rock Your Powerhouse!

Kira

In Defense of the Classical Pilates Method

Muscle Madness: designing the Pilates body

Today's BLOG was influenced by the unfortunate great debate in our Pilates community -- Classical vs. Contemporary Pilates.  This debate has sparked some really inflammatory comments recently on forums such as Pilates-Pro.  So much so that I wonder... can't we just get along?  Can't we just embrace our differences and learn from one another?  Many opinions I've read are clearly not based on a solid understanding of each approach to Pilates.  They merely sound defensive and accusatory.  I am certified through a Classical Pilates program and a Contemporary one and will always choose to educate myself from both "sides".  However, what I choose to teach is Classical Pilates because that's what resonates with me the most.  Here's why:

For me, Classical Pilates is a challenging workout that is simultaneously rehabilitative.  For me, there is no great divide between Classical Pilates and therapeutic bodywork.  Afterall, its Classical Pilates that healed just about every joint in my body and sustained my 15 year career as a dancer/aerial artist.  The absolute intelligence behind the original work of Mr. Pilates' exercise system, "corrects wrong postures" and "restores the body".  That's why people used to go to Joe and "get fixed" at his NYC gym way back in the late 20's-late 60s.  It has always been an exercise system with more than just aesthetic value. It's always been an exercise system that honors the integrity of the entire body and it's need to function as one harmonious mechanism. My understanding is that Mr. Pilates' aim was to help people move more efficiently in their bodies during their regular daily activities.  The more I explore the Classical work, I realize I don't have to stray too far from it to help clients achieve their health and fitness goals; whether they want to tone up, lose weight, relieve themselves of chronic pain or prepare themselves for their next triathalon.  There is so much room for creativity within the Classical system that the work can accommodate the most de-conditioned client to the super-advanced. 

Some within our Pilates community have this notion that Classical Pilates is rigid and formulaic with its beginner, intermediate and advanced systems.  For Joe, there was no formula.  He taught for the body in front of him.  But his approach to each individual was based on decades of study of the human body and an equal amount of experience working with everyone from injured war veterans to dancers, boxers and business professionals.  A certification program of 6 months to 1 year in no way supplies us enough knowledge, understanding or experience to be as proficient as he.  I view our beginner, intermediate and advanced systems as a template for understanding how to progressively and systematically design Pilates bodies using the vast work at our disposal.  Dividing the work systematically challenges us to think critically.  What exercises should my client be proficient in before I introduce, say, Short Spine, on the Reformer?

Or, once my client understands the concept of initiating and sustaining movement from the powerhouse, what exercises on the Cadillac might I introduce to challenge pelvic stability?  Or, if my client needs more lumbar flexion, thoracic extension, scapular stability, leg strength, arm strength, balance, flexibility, stamina... which exercises might I introduce on the Reformer, Cadillac, High Chair, Wunda Chair, Barrels, Ped-i-Pole or with the Magic Circle (which are usually available in a Classical Studio because of the understanding that Pilates includes all of the apparatus designed by Mr. Pilates).

I've heard others in our community complain that everyone can't do Classical Pilates.  I often wonder why they think that.  I don't feel as if we're limited to teaching the "ideal" version of each exercise without accommodating for the individual needs of each client.  For example, many beginners simply can't do the "traditional" version of The Hundred.  I've had clients who can't coordinate the pumping with the breath.  For others, I have to modify the exercise in other ways, perhaps keeping their feet flat on the floor.   The goal is always the same, however; to train them towards the "ideal" version of the exercise. 

Or, depending on the needs of the client, I might also have to consider the goal/intention of the Classical exercise and modify it temporarily so that they can reap similar benefits until the ideal can be executed.  For example, how many beginners can truly do the full Roll Up?  Forcing them to do it before they're ready has little value because they'll recruit all the wrong muscles and won't benefit from the spinal articulation.  Oftentimes I'll start with the 1/2 Rollback which focuses on spinal articulation from a seated position with knees bent, feet flat on the mat and hands firmly on the backs of the thighs for support.  Next, I'll progress a client to the Roll Up from a supine position with knees bent and ultimately, the Classical version of the exercise.  I'll be sure to include the Roll Back on the Cadillac in each session because it's an ideal way to help them discover the role of their powerhouse in creating spinal articulation.

As I mentioned above, I am certified through both a Classical Pilates program (East Coast) and a Contemporary one (West Coast).  I'm an eternal student and welcome knowledge from all schools.  My teaching has undoubtedly been influenced by all of my training including a lifetime of dance and my studies as a licensed massage therapist and Active Isolated Stretch Technician. Everything I do; from dance, to aerial art and yoga deepens my understanding of the Universal principals of movement and alignment and informs my teaching.  Every client I train brings me greater clarity.  Yet my goal is always the same; to teach Pilates with the greatest amount of integrity I can and to help all of my clients attain their health and fitness goals using the Classical Pilates Method.  I think we end up teaching what resonates with us the most and, for me, that's Classical Pilates.  I absolutely love it !

There is greatness in what we do, no matter the approach we take.  We are getting people to move.  And in today's sedentary society, that's imperative.

Rock Your Powerhouse!

Kira

The Salt Glow @ Burke Williams Spa

Feel Good Fridays: giving back to self

After a whirlwind month that included exhibiting at the Body-Mind-Spirit Conference, hosting a Pilates Day Event at Equinox Woodland Hills, having our first trunk show (I don't think I told you about that yet) etc. etc... I owed myself BIG TIME.  I felt stressed from the inside out.  Lucky for me, I've been sitting on a generous gift certificate to Burke Williams Day Spa.  So generous, that I got to share it with my husband, Michael.

Because I'm uberly-picky about massage, I opted for a Salt Glow Treatment while my husband went for the Deep Tissue/Sports Massage.  I started my day's indulgence with a hot shower followed by a muscle melting hour in the sauna, steam room and jacuzzi.  Then, Amanda (my spa technician) invited me into the wet room where multiple shower heads were raining upon the massage table.  She asked for me to test the temperature of the water.  After my "okay" she turned off the water and left the room while I got on the table.  The minute she introduced the shower to my prone body... I was down for the count.  I need to have this fancy contraption in my house along with a resident spa technician.  Everyone should shower on their belly.  It's THAT divine!  I think she began the treatment with exfoliating mitts; vigorously massaging my body.  Then, she massaged hot oil on my body followed by the methodical salt scrub that was both invigorating and relaxing.  Back to the downpour... that heavenly downpour.  She repeated the process supine and the whole treatment lasted 25 minutes.  The horizontal shower alone is worth the return, but Amanda was fabulous as well.

The day of "indulgence" was a simple reminder to give back to self.  Work is SO much easier after a little treat.  We all deserve a little pampering.

Rock Your Powerhouse!

Kira
 

Toe Sox Rock: meet the designers

Scoop of the Week: Pilates Stuff I Love!

Joe and Christina Patterson are the husband/wife duo behind the creative Toe Sox brand that have become a wardrobe staple for so many of us Pilates enthusiasts.  They were the first vendors to greet us at the PMA Conference in 2006 where Joe's Pila-T-Shop made its debut and, like us, are regulars on the Pilates Conference circuit.  I've always been inspired by their success as a couple and the fact that they dared to think outside of the box; educating themselves about everything from design and fabrication to the  specific needs of the Pilates/Yoga community.  They believed in their idea, took a risk and found success.  Read their story below:

What exactly are Toe Sox?

ToeSox are a 5 toed sock with a rubber dotted non-slip sole.

Why are Toe Sox an important part of a Pilates wardrobe?

Three main reasons; Safety, Hygiene and Toe articulation. The non-slip sole provides slip free security on any apparatus and during mat workouts. ToeSox provide a hygienic barrier against warts, fungus and bacterial infections. The toe compartments prompt the wearer to articulate their toes thereby strengthening the muscles in their feet and increasing blood circulation.

 What inspired your idea for Toe Sox?

Christina and I were taking a series of yoga classes at a community center. We noticed that several of the women were wearing normal socks during practice even against the advice of the instructor. These ladies were having trouble with slipping during their practice but refused to take off their socks. I had been wearing toe socks for years with my flip flops when the weather was cold and the idea just hit us to put a rubber dotted sole on the bottom of toe socks. This way the user could still articulate their toes as if they were barefoot but now have the advantages of a sock.

 Did you have previous experience in manufacturing socks?

No.

What did you do prior to creating Toe Sox?

I worked in sales for a large company that manufactured construction materials and Christina was a teacher at Pierce College.

What convinced you that this would be a successful entrepreneurial endeavor?

We knew it would be a success when we showed our samples to various yoga and Pilates studio owners. Their reaction was enough to tell us that this was a good idea and a much needed accessory.

How long did it take from concept to manufacturing your first pair of Toe Sox?

The process took a year and 9 months from concept to receiving our first shipment. 

What were the important elements you were looking for in creating the perfect pair of Toe Sox?

We wanted a very comfortable sock that fit the entire foot like a glove or second skin without moving or twisting on the foot. The rubber sole needed to bend and flex with the movement of the foot without hindering your practice. Accessories work best when they operate as an extension of your body and not a hindrance.

We know that imitation is the best form of flattery. Newer companies are now emerging with similar products. What makes your product so unique?

I think that ToeSox address the issues of comfort, hygiene and durability better than the competition. We are the only toe sock made with organic cotton in six sizes that covers the entire foot. Each of our sizes only covers 2 shoe sizes, for example our small fits women shoe sizes 6-8. This makes for a better fit and the sock does not move or twist as much as our competition. Hygiene is becoming an increasingly important issue and many studios are implementing mandatory sock policies. These studios require that socks cover the entire foot as opposed to having the toes stick out of the ends. The organic cotton yarn that we are using is extremely comfortable and very durable. Now that our patent has been issued, hopefully ToeSox will remain unique.

How did you first market your Toe Sox?

We launched a website and started contacting teacher training certification programs for Pilates. We then placed ads in both Yoga Journal and Pilates Style Magazine. 

In your opinion, what is the most effective way of marketing a new product to the Pilates community?

Teacher training programs and continuing education conferences are the best way to get your product out to instructors and clients.

(Joe & Christina assisting customers at a Pilates Conference)

 What do you love about owning your own company?

In a word, Flexibility. The ability to work on projects that interest us and to do it on our own schedule.

What are the greatest challenges to entrepreneurship?

Wearing all the different hats that running a company requires can be overwhelming. You have to be part accountant, salesperson, researcher, designer and much more.

At what point did you feel like you had achieved success?

When we were able to dedicate all of our energy into ToeSox and quit our day jobs.

Where do you see your company in 10 years?

We are in the process of developing new products in a variety of industries. In 10 years I expect that we will have a whole line of ToeSox that caters to many different activities niches.

Where can people buy Toe Sox?

You can visit www.toesox.com  and purchase all our products online or call us at (877)486-3769. Check your local studio they may have them in stock as well.

Does your company offer anything other than Toe Sox?

When we had our son, Quinn, we were inspired to start a line of baby clothes. Our Itty Bitty Gear line features original artwork and a comfortable fit for babies and toddlers.

What is your favorite T-shirt from Joe’s Pila-T-Shop?

Anything camouflage and the new RED long sleeve – Flow Like Joe.