Rachel Rutkowski doesn’t just own a Pilates studio, she also is a true and tested believer in how Pilates can reshape your body, confidence, demeanor and even your life.

“Six years ago, I fell in love with Pilates,” she said. “I loved how it made me feel, and I noticed results in my body faster than with any other workout I had tried before.”

One of the few frustrating parts of her early Pilates experience was the lack of classes near her home.

“At the time, there were very few studios or gyms offering Pilates in the Downriver area, so I often drove 30 minutes or more to take classes at other studios,” she said. “That experience inspired me to become certified, with the dream of one day opening a studio in Wyandotte.”

That dream became a reality in November 2024, when Rutkowski opened Riforma Pilates in downtown Wyandotte offering locals a variety of Pilates opportunities without the long drive.

“My intention was always to open a studio in Wyandotte, so when the space became available, I knew I couldn’t pass it up,” she said. “It truly felt like it was meant to be.”

Rutkowski, 33, is a native of Grosse Ile and graduated from Wayne State University. After getting certified in Pilates, she worked at two different studios to gain experience, grow as an instructor and become the best teacher she could be before opening her own space.

“During that time, I also hosted pop-up Pilates events at local businesses in Wyandotte and built many meaningful relationships with clients and local businesses, many of whom are now regular clients at Riforma today,” she said.

Rutkowski then put together an “amazing” team to represent the Riforma name, mission and goals.

“We truly have the best team, and I feel so lucky to have found such amazing instructors,” she said. “All of our instructors at Riforma are certified and come from a variety of different backgrounds, which brings a unique energy and perspective to every class.”

Riforma Pilates offers a variety of class formats and pricing options to accommodate different experience levels, schedules and individual needs. They are committed to keeping Pilates as affordable and accessible as possible while still providing a premium experience through high-quality equipment, dedicated certified instructors and thoughtful, intentional programming.

“At Riforma, we are proud to be a small, boutique Pilates studio that emphasizes building strength, stability and a supportive community focused environment,”

Rutkowski said. “Our smaller class sizes allow us to create a more personalized experience where every client feels seen, welcomed and supported from the moment they walk through the door.”

Rutkowski also is very proud to be a part of the vibrant and growing Wyandotte business community.

“I’ve always loved downtown Wyandotte and the incredible community of local businesses that make it so special,” she said. “Wyandotte also holds a special place in my heart because it’s home to my family’s business, Mijara Building Company. We’ve been business owners in Wyandotte for more than 50 years, and I truly felt there was no better place to open another small business rooted in community and connection.”

The feedback and response from both the customers and community have all been extremely positive.

“We feel incredibly lucky that business has been so strong since opening,” Rutkowski said. “At Riforma, we strive to create a space that is inclusive, encouraging, and accessiblem for all ages and fitness backgrounds.”

Riforma Pilates is located at 109 Maple St., in Wyandotte. View the schedule and book classes at riformapilateswyandotte.com or by downloading the Riforma Pilates app in the App Store. Follow Riforma Pilates on Instagram @riforma_pilates to stay up to date on everything happening at the studio! Email riformapilates@hotmail.com or call (734) 390-4440.