Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Hilton.
Rachel, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I bought into the Pure Barre franchise in 2019 when fitness was in full swing and the old adage of “build it and they will come” was still true. I signed my first lease on March 2, 2020, and three weeks later the world shut down. Nothing like opening your dream business during a global pandemic to humble you fast.
Since then, it’s been quite an interesting ride. I’ve failed spectacularly, learned the hard way, and discovered that success doesn’t always mean more. I once thought I wanted a collection of studios and to build this big brand empire, but somewhere along the way I lost sight of peace, family, and the reason I started. So, I did something most entrepreneurs don’t brag about…I scaled back.
The first studio we built and opened is the one we still have today, and I love it more than ever. I’m the opposite of most “how I built this” stories. I grew too fast, burned out, and found that happiness actually lives in doing less but doing it well.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth ride. It has been one heck of an adventure filled with lessons I probably could have learned the easy way, but such is life. If someone really wants the ‘highlight” reel of the struggles, we’ll need to sit down with a good bottle of wine or bourbon, because they’re a lot more enjoyable with a drink in hand.
We’ve been impressed with Pure Barre Lee’s Summit, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Pure Barre is a full body workout focused on low impact, high intensity movements that strengthen and tone the body in ways that truly work. What makes it special is how it meets people where they are. You can walk in as a lifelong athlete or someone just starting their fitness journey and still get an incredible, challenging workout without the intimidation factor that comes with many boutique studios.
At Pure Barre Lee’s Summit, we focus on more than just the workout. Yes, you will shake, you will sweat, and you will probably question your life choices several times in class but you will also laugh, connect, and leave feeling stronger and more confident than when you came in. Our members range from college students to grandparents, and everyone fits. It is that mix of realness and community that keeps people coming back.
What sets us apart is the experience. Every detail matters, from the music and the cues to the energy in the room. You will see familiar faces at the front desk who actually know your name, instructors who push you in the best way, and a studio that feels like home. We have hosted everything from wine nights and local business pop ups to themed challenges and camps because wellness should feel fun and human, not like punishment. We are not Pilates, we are not yoga, we are Pure Barre.
I am most proud that after everything we have been through, the same studio we built and opened back in 2020 is still thriving today. It has become a space where people build friendships, confidence, and strength in every sense of the word. I want readers to know that Pure Barre Lee’s Summit is not just a place to work out. It is a community that lifts each other up, literally and figuratively.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Give yourself grace. Not just on day one but every single day after. That doesn’t mean you don’t hold yourself accountable. Embrace the mistakes, learn from them, and move on.
I wish that I would have slowed down and evaluated all aspects of life, not just business. Know your personality and be realistic about your strengths and weaknesses as well as what you actually want out of life.
Pricing:
- Drop in class $30
- Pure 4 Class Membership $79
- Pure 8 Class Membership $139
- Pure Start Unlimited Membership $179
- 10 Class Package $289
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.purebarre.com/location/lee-s-summit-mo
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purebarreleessummit
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17BkZ16Zyd/
