ADVERTORIAL
Scripps Ranch Family-Owned Charis Pilates is Building Strength and Community
When Kristin Cain first climbed onto a Pilates reformer, she didn’t expect to fall in love.
“To be honest,” she says, “I always hated working out. So, when I found something that didn’t feel like a chore – but something I actually loved – it felt like a miracle.”
That first spark eventually turned into Charis Pilates, a studio that’s not only reshaping bodies but also building deep community connections just minutes away in Poway.
Kristin and her husband Dan – a retired Navy officer – are longtime San Diegans and proud Scripps Ranch residents. After years of military service, they planted roots close to home to build something meaningful together.
“Dan looked at me and said, ‘We did my dream, now let’s do yours,’” Kristin recalls.
The name Charis (pronounced “care-iss”) comes from a Greek word meaning grace and goodwill freely given – an idea that guides everything from how the team teaches to how they treat every client.
Classes for All
Located at 14879 Pomerado Road in Poway, Charis Pilates offers small-group reformer classes seven days a week for all levels – from active seniors to college athletes. With 100+ classes weekly between Poway and their new Escondido studio, the schedule includes bone-building, mobility, cardio jumpboard and advanced strength training.
Charis Is Different
What sets Charis apart is its focus on connection over capacity.
“We care more about building a real community than cramming in reformers for quick profits,” Kristin says. “That isn’t safe, and it doesn’t lead to real progress. We keep classes smaller on purpose and hire only the best instructors – experienced, educated and genuinely invested in our clients. It’s an elevated experience with a totally come-as-you-are vibe.”
For Kristin and Dan, Charis isn’t just a studio – it’s a way of serving others and building something lasting for their community.
Learn more at www.charispilates.com.
