The Pearl, a recently opened movement studio on City Island, offers classes in Pilates, yoga, meditation, dance and even pre- and post-natal exercise.
Photo by Ben Zucker
Businesses in the Bronx thrive because community members have unique ideas and small businesses that become staples in their neighborhoods, like Wendy Clark, who recently opened The Pearl, a movement studio on City Island that offers Pilates, yoga, meditation, dance, and even pre- and post-natal exercise classes.
What sets The Pearl apart from other exercise studios in the Bronx is that we offer Reformer Pilates, which is not offered at other studios in the Bronx. Although it may seem difficult at first glance because of the machines, Reformer Pilates is extremely beneficial, especially for those with injuries or back pain. It’s also great for core strength, flexibility, and more.
Starting a niche business can be tough, even in a place like City Island, where many of the Main Street storefronts are vacant. Clark said it was tough finding a landlord willing to rent space, but he was eventually able to relocate to 319 City Island Avenue.
Clark said he already has a lot of “regulars.” Going to a place like the Pearl is a novelty, like going to the movies or getting a coffee. He said he could work out at home, but going to a place like the Pearl and using the machines is fun.
Her success to date has earned her the right to participate in Dime Bank’s 1010 WINS Small Business Challenge, giving her the opportunity to network and elevate her business’s status as a member of the Bronx community.
She’s already participated in the Borough President’s Bronx Fireworks, a community event taking place on Thursday, June 27. The Pearl will host a free class at 5:30pm as an introduction to the studio’s classes before the program begins at 6pm. For more information about the fireworks, check out the Bronx Tourism Council’s Instagram, @bronx.tourism.
Jillene Barrett is director of communications and marketing for the Bronx Economic Development Corporation.
