Conventional wisdom often advises against going into business with your best friend, but Britt Smith and Jodi Arling are proving that sometimes, friendship makes the perfect foundation for a thriving business.
As lifelong best friends who were both born and raised in Swift Current and now co-owners of Connexion Yoga & Pilates Studio, Britt and Jodi have found that their close bond only enhances their professional partnership.
“We’re besties,” Britt says with a smile. “But it’s a low-maintenance friendship, meaning it’s very easy and natural. Owning a business together has honestly been nothing but fun.”
Their journey to ownership was a natural progression. Both were working as yoga instructors at the studio when Britt, already helping manage operations behind the scenes, was approached by the former owner with the opportunity to purchase the business.
“I already had a strong understanding of what running the studio entailed,” Britt explains. “Asking Jodi to come on board as co-owner was a no-brainer. Together, we’re aligned in vision, work ethic, and passion for wellness.”
“We knew the classes, the community, and the instructors, so it felt like a seamless transition,” adds Jodi.
In August 2024, the pair officially took over the studio and have been growing the business with great success and enthusiasm ever since.
“We owe so much of our success to our incredible teaching staff,” Britt emphasizes. “Their passion, expertise, and dedication are truly the heart and soul of our studio. They go above and beyond every day to create a welcoming, uplifting space where students feel inspired.”
With their new ownership came a new name: from Yoga Connexion to Connexion Yoga & Pilates, a reflection of their expanding offerings.
“We’re now incorporating Pilates into the schedule,” Jodi explains. “Yoga and Pilates complement each other beautifully. Offering both under one roof gives our students more variety and a more well-rounded practice.”
The studio prides itself on inclusivity, offering classes for every level in a judgment-free atmosphere.
“Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or brand new to the mat, everyone is welcome,” says Britt. “As soon as you walk through our doors, we want you to feel equal, safe, and encouraged to move your body in a way that feels right for you.”
Both Britt and Jodi are certified in Vinyasa yoga, while their team of instructors bring a diverse range of styles to the studio including Ashtanga, Iyengar, Restorative, Yin Yoga, and more.
“Our schedule includes everything from Slow Flow to Power Yoga, even Pound classes,” Britt explains. “We also offer Gentle Yoga with long-held, deep stretches and Functional Flow, which focuses on isolated, controlled movement. Our Flow & Unwind class offers a dynamic first half, followed by relaxing, meditative postures to end your day.”
Their Mind & Body class blends meditation with gentle movement, helping students slow down and reconnect with themselves. Another offering is Yoga Fusion, taught by Norma Johnston, who integrates her background in Reiki and energy work into a unique, healing experience.
Pilates, currently taught as mat-based classes using body weight and props such as Pilates balls and weights will be offered on a regular basis soon. One popular new hybrid is Abs & As, a fun, energizing class targeting the core and glutes through a blend of yoga and Pilates techniques.
Five of their instructors are currently undergoing Pilates teacher training, so clients can expect an expanded Pilates schedule in the near future.
To streamline the booking process, the studio has its own app — Connexion Yoga & Pilates — where users can register, complete waivers, book classes, and manage their schedule.
“Pre-booking is helpful for instructors, but walk-ins are absolutely welcome,” says Britt. “We’ll never turn anyone away, as long as they’re open to doing some yoga.”
First-time visitors can also find a free class code through their website, connexion-studio.com, which is accessible via the app as well.
Beyond the studio space, Connexion Yoga & Pilates is also an official retail partner with lululemon — a unique advantage for Swift Current residents.
“Since there’s no nearby lululemon store, we stock high-quality gear specifically for yoga and Pilates,” says Jodi. “We also carry both men's and women’s lifestyle apparel, including sweatpants, hoodies, t-shirts, and even golf wear in seasonal colours.”
In addition to regular drop-in classes, the studio recently completed a popular eight-week beginner yoga series, designed to help newcomers build confidence and integrate into regular offerings.
“We’re passionate about making movement accessible,” says Britt. “And we’re excited to continue growing, offering more classes, and being a hub for health and community in Swift Current.”
To celebrate their new chapter, Connexion will host a re-grand opening event on Friday, August 8th, featuring giveaways, prizes, and plenty of community spirit.
Find Connexion Yoga & Pilates at 2149 Walker Street, just south of the I-Plex and across from Walker Place, Made Café, and Evolve Gym. Stay connected via the app, website, or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.