For Betsy O’Malley, owner and founder of Balanced Pilates and Wellness Boutique, her passion for movement and healing began early.

“I think I knew in high school that I wanted to be a physical therapist,” Betsy said. “Even back then, I was drawn to the idea of helping people heal through movement. It just felt like a natural fit.”

That drive led her to earn a bachelor’s degree in psychology before completing her master’s in physical therapy. While working as a physical therapist, Betsy became fascinated by the mind-body connection and began searching for ways to help patients beyond traditional rehab.

At a Michigan Physical Therapy Association Conference, she was introduced to Stott Pilates. “I had been looking for good programs for my patients after discharge—especially those dealing with neck or back pain—and there really wasn’t anything out there,” she recalled. “When I saw Stott Pilates, I knew it was exactly what the community needed.”

Betsy began offering Pilates out of her home more than 10 years ago before moving into her current studio. About eight years ago, she purchased the building and expanded her services to create Balanced Pilates and Wellness Boutique—a one-of-a-kind space bridging medicine and movement.

A Mission Rooted in Values

Today, Balanced Pilates serves as a welcoming, evidence-based studio focused on kindness, professionalism, and personalized care. “It can be intimidating to start a movement program,” Betsy said. “We work hard to make sure everyone who walks in feels comfortable and supported.”

That approach proved vital during COVID-19, when gyms and studios were forced to close. Betsy quickly pivoted to online classes—and her clients followed. “What could have been a very dark time became something really beautiful,” she said. “We built even stronger relationships with our members, and they supported us in return.”

Looking Ahead

Balanced Pilates now offers specialized classes for conditions like osteoporosis and is expanding into new areas, including balance and endurance classes informed by adult fitness testing. Betsy is also exploring ways to incorporate movement into mental health treatment, an emerging area of physical therapy.

As an empty nester, she’s channeling more energy into creative programming. “I’m passionate about finding new ways to serve this community,” she said. “Our goal is to help people maintain their health and longevity—and feel good doing it.”