In love with: The Exercise Room – a fitness studio with a difference

For the last few weeks I’ve been boosting my exercise where I can by supplementing my usual Pilates and spin classes with some good old-fashioned weights. I’m not a fan of most gyms - especially when they are so big I lose my way for ten minutes just trying to find my locker – but the beautifully boutique Parnell spot known as the The Exercise Room is right up my alley.
Like many busy people, Exercise Room owner Jane Wilson knew that she wanted more from her gym, but was unsure how to go about finding it. Taking matters into her own hands, in 2004 she opened her boutique fitness studio, and eight years on the concept is still a rarity in the Auckland gym world today. The statuesque blonde is the perfect example of the kind of people that seek out her gym too – committed to home, work and family and in need of essential “me” time wherever she can get it.
The private Akaroa Street gym is open 24 hours a day and unique in several very important respects – all of which mean a much better experience for their members. Membership is kept very small so there is a sincere focus on personalised attention and no crowding, and instead of unskilled floor staff, they only admit experienced, highly qualified personal trainers. Each of their personal trainers has ten years plus experience, and many have additional backgrounds in the likes of physiotherapy and osteopathy so you know that every client’s wellbeing is paramount.
I’ve been training with Luke Barwell, who has in just a few weeks’ time managed to already make a change to how I look and feel. I’m committed to sticking to a regular check in with him over the next few months too, as winter is where I often slip up and spend a little too much time clutching a hearty glass of Pinot on the couch!
If you like the idea of a gym with 24-hour swipe card access, free undercover car parking right by the door, individual bathroom suites and 5-star service then I heartily recommend you check out this perfectly private spot. Come summer your bod will thank you for it!
www.theexerciseroom.co.nz