Our Story
Because moving your body should be a joy
Barre and Pilates classes that’ll change the way you think about exercise
If you're tired of feeling like you need to 'work off' treats, punishing your body with gruelling routines, or you just don't enjoy regular gym workouts, we're here to help you change your relationship with your body and exercise. We strive to help you appreciate your body for what it can do, enjoy exercise and practice mindful movement as an act of self-love.
Want to incorporate movement in your daily and weekly routine but haven’t found your thing yet when it comes to exercise?
Searching for something more than just an exercise program? Want community, connection, support and encouragement?
Want to challenge yourself and discover a new way to move your body?
Know that self-care and self-love aren’t selfish, but the key to being the best version of yourself?
Want to feel accepted, comfortable and welcomed when you go to an exercise class?
You’re in the right place.
Hey there, I’m Nicole, founder of njoy pilates and lover of moving my body for the sheer joy of it. I want YOU to feel empowered, confident and connected as part of the njoy pilates community. I completed my instructor training through Barre Body, who opened the first barre studio in Australia and have the most comprehensive barre training program worldwide. Read on to find out a little bit more about my story and what inspired me to open my own studio…
I had a unique upbringing, as my dad was a quadriplegic. He was paralysed when someone spear tackled him playing rugby and never walked again. Despite that, he was the most cheerful, grateful person I’ve ever known and never complained. He didn’t hold a grudge against the other player who injured him and always said he’d go back to playing rugby tomorrow if he could. His attitude taught me lots of wonderful values, and I also learnt to value the ability to move my body whenever and however I want to. I can run, jump and hug and those are privileges I came to hold sacred. The ability to move my body is special to me and is something I have always loved doing.
My relationship with my body and exercise hasn’t always been healthy, however. In my early twenties I became obsessed with exercising to the point of extreme, spending hours at the gym lifting weights and running 10km daily. From overly restrictive dietary habits, I developed an eating disorder. This was not honouring my body or the values imparted to me by my father.
I knew I had to change and for me that was discovering Barre and Pilates. This style of movement was low impact and focused on mindful movement. (And loads of fun!) It offered me a different challenge from what I was used to, was enjoyable and brought balance to my life.
I believe you should find the movement that brings you joy. Whatever your jam is – be it weightlifting, running, HIIT, rollerblading or anything else - you are much more likely to stick to an exercise program if you enjoy it. I founded njoy pilates to help you change your relationship with your body and exercise. I will strive to help you appreciate your body for what it can do, enjoy exercise and practice mindful movement as an act of self-love. At njoy pilates, we cultivate community and acceptance so you feel empowered, confident and connected moving your body. View our classes page to find out more about our class styles.