Amp Reform Studio: Bringing Pilates to Loughton
Fitness-minded residents in Loughton may already be familiar with the growing presence of AMP Reform Studio at the Loughton Seedbed Centre, a Pilates, barre and wellness studio founded by Amanda Martin. However, as the popularity of Pilates continues to rise and the market becomes increasingly saturated, owner Amanda Martin explains the importance of differentiation.
A studio ten years in the making
For many business owners, launching a studio is not a sudden decision but the result of years of experience, experimentation and refinement. That is certainly the case for Amp Reform Studio, a Pilates, barre and wellness studio based in Loughton, serving clients from across the Essex/East London border and the Epping Forest area.
Founded in January 2024 by Amanda Martin, Amp Reform Studio reflects more than a decade spent working within the movement and creative industries. Amanda’s career began as a professional dancer, before progressing into creative and studio management roles. It was during this time that she discovered reformer Pilates, a practice that immediately resonated not only for its physical demands, but for its long-term benefits for strength, mobility and longevity.
After completing her mat and reformer Pilates training, Amanda began teaching in 2016, developing a loyal following across studios in London. Over time, her classes became increasingly popular, often filling quickly, which prompted her to consider what a studio of her own could look like and, more importantly, feel like.
Today, Amp Reform Studio specialises in creating a well-rounded, strength-focused approach to wellness combining movement, education, and community to support people in feeling stronger, healthier, and more connected in their daily lives: ‘Our core services include a full range of classes, from Barre Reformer, Tower, the Wunda chair and mat sessions to more dynamic strength Pilates for clients looking to build stability, mobility, and overall fitness. We also offer personalised 1:1 sessions for individuals and
athletes who want tailored programming.
‘Beyond our class schedule, we host a variety of workshops and wellness events throughout the year, including sound baths, mobility workshops, and seasonal community events designed to educate, inspire, and connect our members. These workshops help our clients deepen their practice and support both their physical and mental wellbeing.’
The studio has also expanded into branded activewear and merchandise, reinforcing its identity as a lifestyle-led wellness brand rather than a single-service studio.
The beginnings of a reformation
Like many entrepreneurs, Amanda’s decision to launch her own business was driven by a desire for creative autonomy and authenticity: ‘While teaching in studios across London, I noticed my classes were becoming increasingly popular and often waitlisted. That’s when I realised I could create my own space, a studio where I could bring together all my skills including my dance background and merge them into barre and Pilates classes. I decided to grab the bull by the horns, and set out to find my own space to deliver the kind of experience I’d always wanted to offer my clients.’
The studio’s name came together quickly when Amanda was given the opportunity to sublet a space while still searching for a permanent location. Using her initials, A.M, AMP was created as a direct reference to Amanda Martin Pilates, with ‘Reform’ added to reflect both the reformer equipment and the transformative nature of the practice itself: ‘The name captures both my personal connection to the studio and the idea of what is delivered in each class’.
Early growth was powered by trust. Many of Amanda’s existing clients followed her to the new studio, providing immediate momentum. From there, the business grew steadily by expanding the class timetable, introducing specialist workshops and building a knowledgeable team aligned with the studio’s ethos: ‘Having a community that trusts my teaching and the experience I offer has been a key factor in the studio’s success and ongoing development’.
Creating difference to stand out 
Operating within a crowded Pilates market has presented challenges: ‘Pilates has become one of the biggest fitness trends, which definitely keeps you on your toes. However, I like to think outside the box and focus on delivering something unique with my brand and studio. By incorporating distinctive elements such as combining the movement, specialised workshops, and wellness events the ‘AMP WAY’ I ensure that Amp Reform Studio offers a different experience that sets us apart from the rest. My music choices play a huge part within my studio brand.’
The studio now welcomes a diverse customer base, from 18 to 80 years old, across all genders and abilities. While some clients are high-profile individuals, the focus remains firmly on inclusivity, consistency and long-term wellbeing for everyone who walks through the door.
Business accommodation brings New York to Loughton
Securing the right studio space in Loughton was a defining moment for Amp Reform Studio. From the outset, Amanda knew the physical environment would play a central role in shaping the studio’s identity and how clients experienced each class, from the flow of movement to the atmosphere of the space itself.
When she viewed the unit at Capital Space’s Loughton Seedbed Centre, the decision was immediate. The industrial, warehouse-style aesthetic and scale of the space aligned perfectly with her vision for a New York loft-inspired studio. The 1,100 sq. ft unit gave her the freedom to design the studio around specialist Pilates equipment, open movement and community-led events, creating an environment that feels both energising and intentional rather than clinical or over-polished.
Amanda knew straight away that she wanted the unit and moved quickly to secure it, taking advantage of Capital Space’s easy-in, easy-out licence, which allowed her to move equipment in efficiently and get the studio operational without unnecessary delays. This flexibility meant she could focus on refining the space and client experience from day one, rather than navigating restrictive lease terms.
Just as importantly, Amanda felt supported throughout the launch process. She credits the on-site team at the Loughton Seedbed Centre with creating a welcoming and reassuring environment during the early stages of the business:
‘My experience at Capital Space has been nothing short of amazing. Carole and Natalia have been incredibly kind, helpful, and welcoming. From the very start, they made me feel safe and supported, and I immediately knew it was a great location to launch AMP Reform Studio, along with everything that is included when renting a unit from the Seedbed Centre.’
Amping up for the future
Looking ahead, Amanda Martin’s vision for AMP Reform Studio centres on sustainable, community-led growth. Over the next five years, she plans to continue developing the studio’s offering while introducing new ideas and experiences within the branded space.
Opening a second studio, with a slightly different approach, is part of the long-term ambition. For now, the priority remains on nurturing the strong community already in place and maintaining the values that define the business.
Amanda’s advice to other business owners reflects this approach. She emphasises the importance of deep knowledge, staying true to your values and avoiding comparison, particularly on social media. Continual learning, paired with kindness and consistency, has been central to her journey so far.
Amanda’s top tips for entrepreneurs:
- Make sure you have all the knowledge and expertise to deliver the best results for your clients
- Build your business around your values and vision; authenticity resonates so stay true to you
- Don’t let social media comparisons or external opinions make you feel like an imposter
- Knowledge is power; continually expand your skills and understanding to stay ahead
- Dedication paired with kindness will always build strong relationships and a loyal community
- Work hard and be nice to people
Amp Reform Studio demonstrates how experience, identity and the right studio space can turn a personal vision into a thriving, community-led business.
