The Fitness Empire of Cassey Ho

Cassey Ho, widely known by her brand name Blogilates, has become one of the most influential figures in the online fitness world. As a certified Pilates instructor, entrepreneur, and content creator, Ho has built a fitness empire that spans across multiple platforms and business ventures.^[10] Her journey from posting simple workout videos to becoming a multi-faceted business owner showcases her dedication to making fitness accessible and enjoyable for millions around the world.^[13]

Early Life and Background

Born on January 16, 1987, in Los Angeles, California, Cassey Ho Vinh is a Vietnamese-Chinese American who grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area.^[7] Ho has been candid about growing up "chubby" and how this experience shaped her awareness of body image from a young age. Her interest in fitness and nutrition began when she was 16 after discovering Pilates.^[7]

Despite her early interest in fashion design—her childhood dream—Ho pursued a more traditional path initially, attending Whittier College on a full scholarship. In 2009, she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in biology, originally aiming to become a doctor to meet her parents' expectations.^[7]

The Birth of Blogilates

Ho's fitness journey took an unexpected turn in 2009 when she started posting workout videos on YouTube. What began as a thoughtful gesture—creating a farewell workout video for her 40 Pilates students when she moved cross-country for a job as a fashion buyer—unexpectedly launched her into the digital fitness space.^[1] ^[2]

Her innovative approach of fusing pop music with classical Pilates routines, which she called POP Pilates, quickly gained traction. This unique blend brought fun back into working out and differentiated her content in the fitness industry.^[1] The channel didn't generate any income until 2010 when it began earning advertising revenue through the YouTube Partner Program, but the strength of Ho's brand was in the community she built.^[2]

YouTube Growth and Evolution

From those humble beginnings, Blogilates has grown into a powerhouse channel with over 10 million subscribers across all platforms.^[10] According to recent statistics, Ho's YouTube channel alone has experienced significant growth, with monthly video views often exceeding 40 million and generating estimated monthly earnings between $50,000 and $100,000.^[4] ^[8]

Business Ventures and Expansion

Ho's entrepreneurial spirit extends far beyond YouTube content. In response to viewer demand, she began selling branded merchandise, which quickly sold out. This success signaled that Blogilates was evolving from a channel name into a recognized brand.^[2]

POPFLEX Activewear

Drawing on her childhood passion for fashion design, Ho launched POPFLEX, a direct-to-consumer activewear brand. As CEO and lead designer, she is deeply involved in the creative process, emphasizing that she "birthed every single one of these styles" rather than simply lending her name to products.^[2] The company has expanded its offerings over time, including launching its first swimwear collection in 2023.^[2]

POP Pilates Program

Ho's signature workout style, POP Pilates, has grown from YouTube videos into an internationally recognized instructor certification program accredited by organizations like ACE, AFAA, and NASM. In a significant achievement, 24 Hour Fitness partnered with Ho to make POP Pilates the official Pilates format across all their gyms in the United States.^[1] As of 2025, there are over 4,000 live in-studio POP Pilates classes taught monthly around the world.^[10] ^[11]

Body by Blogilates App

Expanding her digital footprint, Ho created the Body by Blogilates fitness app, which offers both free and premium content. The app organizes workouts by target body parts and provides access to challenges, programs, and a calendar function for subscribers.^[6] With affordable pricing ($3.99/month or $39.99/year) and a substantial amount of free content, the app has been well-received by users.^[6]

Business Structure and Performance

Ho's business operations are structured under the parent company OGorgeous Inc., with Blogilates and POPFLEX as separate brands. Her husband, Sam Livits, serves as COO, and the company maintains a lean team of 21 full-time employees plus contractors.^[2]

The business model has proven remarkably successful, with both Blogilates and POPFLEX brands doubling their revenue year-over-year for four consecutive years. Currently, about 90% of Ho's revenue comes from POPFLEX, while the remaining 10% is split between licensing royalties, social media brand deals, YouTube ad revenue, and fitness programs.^[2]

Ho proudly notes that her companies are bootstrapped without outside investors, allowing her to focus entirely on pleasing customers rather than shareholders: "If the customer is happy, then we're doing the right thing."^[2]

Content Style and Philosophy

Ho's approach to fitness content is characterized by her upbeat personality and genuine care for her audience. Her workouts are designed not only to sculpt and tone the body but also to foster self-love and positivity.^[13] This holistic approach to wellness has resonated with her followers, whom she affectionately calls "POPsters."^[1]

Beyond physical fitness, Ho is an advocate for body positivity and mental wellness. Her content often addresses the psychological aspects of fitness, emphasizing the importance of embracing one's imperfections.^[13] This perspective was highlighted in her video "The Perfect Body," which, despite some controversy, aimed to promote body positivity and self-confidence.^[1] ^[4]

Recognition and Influence

Ho's impact on the fitness industry has earned her numerous accolades. In 2013, she received a Shorty Award in the category of social fitness, and in 2017, she was listed in Time's third annual list of "The 25 Most Influential People on the Internet."^[7] She also won a Streamy Award for Best Health and Wellness Channel in 2014.^[12]

Her influence extends beyond awards, as she has been featured on prominent media outlets such as Good Morning America, Dr. Oz, The Steve Harvey Show, and in publications like PEOPLE Magazine, COSMOPOLITAN, SEVENTEEN, The New York Times, and HEALTH Magazine.^[1]

Personal Identity and Cultural Heritage

Ho has openly shared her journey of embracing her Vietnamese and Chinese cultural heritage. In a 2023 Instagram post, she revealed that it was in high school that she "finally allowed myself to embrace my Vietnamese and Chinese cultures, instead of rejecting them."^[3] She has also produced content highlighting her family's immigrant experience, including a video for Immigrant Heritage Month about her parents' journey from Vietnam to the United States.^[12]

Current Status and Future Directions

As of May 2025, Cassey Ho continues to expand her fitness empire. Her YouTube channel has grown to over 10.7 million subscribers, with her videos consistently generating millions of views.^[9] ^[5] She remains active in developing new content, products, and programs while maintaining her mission of spreading the joy of fitness.^[10]

Ho's entrepreneurial vision continues to drive her forward. As she stated, "I want to die doing what I'm doing," reflecting her passion and commitment to her brands and community.^[2] With her proven track record of innovation and growth, Ho's influence in the fitness and wellness space appears set to continue for years to come.

Cassey Ho (Blogilates)

Cassey Ho (Blogilates)

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