When you think of a gym, you probably conjure up a mental image of dark walls, open-plan weights areas and a plethora of machines that seem incredibly complicated.
Over the past few years, there has been a surge in the number of boutique gyms and studios opening in Australia. Many of these boutique gyms focus on health holistically, rather than just through a physical lens.
This is by no means an exhaustive list — it merely highlights a handful of luxe gyms and studios located in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne. Some studios are currently only offering virtual classes or are closed due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Paramount Recreation Club
Located in Surry Hills, Paramount Recreation Club is a visual delight. Bringing together physical, mental and social health, Paramount offers small group classes, massage treatments and social events. There’s also a luxe kiosk that serves brekkie, lunch and snacks. You can sign up for a 10-day trial for $55, otherwise, membership starts at $45. Book classes via the Mindbody website or the app.
L2/80 Commonwealth St, Surry Hills NSW 2010
https://www.instagram.com/p/B3qdS1igm69/
Hustle Boxing
Hustle Boxing is a luxury studio located in the heart of Potts Point. With suspended aqua boxing bags and four high definition tutorial screens dotted around the studio, you’ll be able to follow the trainers with every move. You’re also given your own kit upon arrival, which includes y-bells, resistance bands, sliders and a place for your phone, towel and water.
The intro offer costs $49 and allows you to attend two classes, otherwise, classes are $35 each or a three-month membership is $77. Book classes via the Mindbody website or the app.
176 Victoria St, Potts Point NSW 2011
https://www.instagram.com/p/CCiPlpijT7A/
One Hot Yoga
With studios in Sydney and Melbourne, One Hot Yoga is dedicated to movement and mindfulness. Both locations bring together “traditional practice, defining a western physical philosophy through modern knowledge and striking architecture.” With classes heated to 21 ̊C, 27˚C and 37˚C, there’s something for everyone. Weekly memberships start at $35.
Sydney: 34 Kellett St, Potts Point 2011 NSW
Melbourne: 36 – 48 River Street, South Yarra 3141 VIC
https://www.instagram.com/p/BxlAVN5nqmX/
Total Fusion
With three locations in Brisbane, Total Fusion offers a unique blend of curated classes. At the Newstead studio, you can choose from 200 different yoga, Pilates, cycle, HIIT, run, fusion and functional training solutions. The studios are pretty inspirational as well and there is soon to be a fourth location in Morningside. Head to the Total Fusion website to enquire about membership. Book classes via the Mindbody website or the app.
Chermside: Shop 30 Westfield Chermside, Gympie Rd, Chermside QLD 4032
Mt Gravatt: Westfield Garden City Cnr Logan Rd + Kessels Rd Mount Gravatt, QLD 4122
Newstead: Lucent Gasworks, 18 Longland Street. Newstead, QLD 4006
https://www.instagram.com/p/CEDagsrFNEc/
Warrior One
Anyone in Melbourne who enjoys yoga, Warrior One is the studio for you. With two locations to choose from, Warrior One offers a light-filled space with earthy textures that help ground you. Both studios offer classes including vinyasa flow, yin yoga and yoga fundamentals.
The intro offer is $60 and allows you to attend six classes within a 28-day period. Otherwise, you can purchase class passes starting at $135 for five classes. Warrior One’s virtual offering is $49 a month and includes a plethora of on-demand yoga classes for you to complete at your leisure.
Brighton studio: 59C Martin St, Brighton 3186
Mordialloc studio: 228 Beach Road, Mordialloc 3195
https://www.instagram.com/p/B9BhBODHve3/
Shelter
Feels like a spa, works like a gym is the tagline of Shelter. Based in Double Bay, Shelter combines five wellness concepts under one roof including saunas, ice baths, spin, boxing and a juicery. Shelter takes a holistic approach to wellness that includes exercise, recovery and restoration. Classes can be purchased separately or in passes. Otherwise, an unlimited weekly membership is $148.50. Book classes via the Mindbody website or the app.
3 Goldman Lane, Double Bay NSW 2028
https://www.instagram.com/p/B3OKUW4Axjo/
Sweat Sessions
Smash out your cardio, HIIT, strength session, Pilates or yoga class under the glowing neon lights in Brisbane-based studio Sweat Sessions. These effective group fitness classes allow you to work up a sweat in a fun environment. A 12-month membership costs $44 a week, otherwise, a casual class is $30. Book classes via the Mindbody website or the app.
50 Taylor St, Bulimba QLD 4171
https://www.instagram.com/p/BoF3MFIHvw_/
Happy Melon
Offering yoga, pilates and fitness classes, Melbourne’s Happy Melon studio blends meditation with fitness to increase energy, clarity and efficiency. If you’re looking to expand your wellness journey, Happy Melon also offers naturopathy and nutrition appointments.
An unlimited intro offer costs $75 and allows you to attend as many classes as you like within three weeks. Memberships are broken up into classes (e.g. a yoga membership, a Pilates membership) and these start at $25. Virtual memberships start at $120 a month.
1252 High St, Armadale VIC 3143
https://www.instagram.com/p/BgF-uIlnrqi/
SOMA
Located in Sydney’s CBD, SOMA offers small studio classes and personal training for busy professionals. There is also a spa located within the gym that offers remedial, deep tissue and relaxation massages as well as organic aromatherapy facials. Head online to SOMA to register for membership.
Chifley Tower, 2 Chifley Square, Sydney NSW 2000
https://www.instagram.com/p/B53N3-lFl0O/
Bend & Fly
Ever tried aerial yoga? Brisbane residents can head to Bend & Fly to try the weightless workout as well as other classes including hot, yin and power yoga. The light-filled studio is Brisbane’s leading AntiGravity Aerial Yoga Studio and can you help you learn the ropes of the practice, which is great for spinal health, flexibility and strength. Try two weeks of Bend & Fly for $55. Book classes via the Mindbody website or the app.
1/208 Montague Road, West End, 4101 QLD