In an era where Instagram aesthetics reign supreme, fitness studios are deviating from the norm and embracing a holistic philosophy that extends beyond mere physical appearance. These studios recognize the interconnectedness of body and mind, aiming to cultivate a 360-degree methodology that encompasses not just exercise but also emotional well-being.
Gone are the days when fitness was solely about achieving a toned physique. Today, these boutique studios prioritize a holistic approach, integrating exercise with postural enhancement and recognizing the body’s interconnectedness, including mental well-being. The emphasis is on building a culture around healthy living rather than simply sweating for its own sake.
These studios reject conventional group classes in favor of individual or small-group training sessions, where personalized guidance and a focus on emotional wellness contribute to achieving real results. Sidonie Geisweiller, founder of a barre studio that combines classical dance and Pilates movements, explains, “We focus not only on physical exercise but also on nurturing emotional health. Our communication aims to promote values, foster loving relationships, and encourage appreciation for our own bodies.”
The importance of creating healthy habits is another maxim of RETO48, a Madrid-based studio where mirrors, clocks, and traditional gym equipment are conspicuously absent. “Our goal is to teach people how to create healthy habits, whether it’s regular training or eating good food,” says co-founder Sara Alvarez. “Thanks to the fact that they are small groups, we create a community so we can motivate each other.”
Small-group training sessions are a cornerstone of these healthy living centers, with a strong emphasis on improving posture, often overlooked in larger classes where individual attention is limited. “We do exercises slowly with few repetitions to make sure they’re done with precision,” explains José Daniel Pérez Toro, co-founder of BeatCore. “BeatCore is a tough workout but it also helps you become more aware of your posture, which is just as important.”
The focus on both physical results and overall well-being fosters motivation and keeps people engaged in their fitness journey. “Working in small groups allows us to tailor the training to each person’s needs, which leads to noticeable results,” says Álvarez. They also ensure variety and excitement by never repeating the same workouts, keeping people motivated and eager to exercise.
Building a sense of community and fostering connections is also paramount, creating a supportive environment where everyone’s needs are prioritized within a teamwork context. According to Josep Garrido of 02 Wellness Center, “Whether it’s group classes or small training sessions, the motivation from working together and the personalized attention blend seamlessly.”
Ángel Merchán, founder of Home Wellness Madrid, highlights the importance of customizable services in an era where lack of time is often cited as an excuse for sedentary lifestyles. “We offer a voucher-based system where you only pay for the services you use. There are no membership fees or commitments,” he explains. “This gives you the freedom to select the services you want and how frequently you want to use them.”
This model represents the future of wellness fitness, offering flexibility and personalization that cater to the evolving needs of today’s fitness enthusiasts.
