When we are looking for a different shopping experience, we change the way we shop. This means driving past the mall to avoid the crowded parking lot and busy stores and heading to a boutique shop. Over the past several years this practice has been reflected in how we approach fitness. The rise of boutique gyms is giving people a different fitness experience.
At a fitness conference I attended this trend was the buzz. We are moving from the “all services in one” gym model to specialized and focused services, also known as boutique gyms. These gyms are small, provide group fitness classes and focus one or two areas in fitness. Barre, yoga, spin, boxing, circuit HIIT, are examples of the type of boutique fitness studios that you will find in different neighbourhoods in Calgary.
So, what’s the draw?
Back in the day, I attended a small women’s-only gym. What they lacked in cardio and weight equipment they made up in great fitness classes that cultivated a sense of community among members. This is what kept me going, the feeling of being connected with others who also enjoyed getting a challenging workout. I imagine this is part of the draw to boutique gyms. In addition to the social environment, people enjoy charismatic instructors, an exceptional workout atmosphere, and motivating music. These characteristics provide enough incentive for people to pay a bit more, approx. $20-30/class, to participate in a trendy fitness experience that their local gym may not offer.
It’s clear that boutique gyms meet a need for people who are looking for a different fitness experience or looking to add to their current routine. Looking to try a boutique gym? Check out Avenue magazine’s list of boutique gyms to try (https://www.avenuecalgary.com/Things-to-Do/Calgary-Boutique-Fitness-Spin-Barre-AntiGravity-Lagree-Surf-TRXP/). I always encourage people to try something new because you may find something that you didn’t know you were looking for.
