The quest for a personalised, sustainable and supportive fitness experience has seen the popularity of Pilates studios soar in recent years, and for Liana and Dean Gathercole the decision to own and run three WA studios has been immensely rewarding.
The couple – who own Strong Pilates in Joondalup, Clarkson and Innaloo in Perth’s northern suburbs – say Pilates studios offered a personalised experience which traditional gyms often did not.
“You’re not just a number, instructors know your name, your body, your goals. There’s also been a broader shift toward preventative health and longevity, and Strong Pilates fits beautifully into that mindset,” Mrs Gathercole said.
Liana and Dean Gathercole own three Pilates studios in Perth’s northern suburbs. Picture: Supplied
“The most rewarding part is seeing people grow, not just physically, but in confidence and connection as well. Watching someone walk into the studio unsure of themselves and, months later, move with strength and self-belief is incredibly fulfilling.
“On a broader level, knowing the studio plays a positive role in people’s routines, mental health, and sense of community makes all the hard work worthwhile.”
When it came to finding a commercial space to open their first Strong in Joondalup in 2023, Mr Gathercole said finding the right locale was as much about feel as it was about logistics.
“With Joondalup, we wanted a location that was accessible, visible, and part of an active local hub, somewhere that already had energy and foot traffic,” he said.
The duo found a Pilates studio also brought consistency and reliability to a commercial area, as members attend multiple times a week, often at set times, which in turn created regular foot traffic.
“That naturally benefits nearby cafés, retailers, and service businesses. From a landlord’s perspective, studios tend to be stable, long-term tenants with strong customer loyalty,” Mr Gathercole said.
“From a community perspective, they bring life, routine, and a sense of belonging to an area, especially during early mornings and evenings when other businesses may be quieter.”
Keen to run your own Pilates studio – or at least invest in the space? Here are some listings currently on the market:
Long-term lease in place
Home to the popular Pilates studio, Love Athletica, which has a long term lease and a strong local following, 134 Camberwell Road, Hawthorn East is on the market for $1.5 million.
Highlights of the building include 208sqm of floorplan, a 13.5 metre frontage, two parking bays, set within the blue chip eastern suburb of Hawthorn East, within walking distance to Camberwell Junction.
Love Athletica is located in a leafy pocket in Melbourne’s inner-east. Picture: realcommercial.com.au
Prime locale
Offered with vacant possession, Shop 2, 88 Anzac Parade in Kensington is a prime space for a Pilates studio or fitness centre.
It has a 209sqm floor area, a versatile open plan layout, six basement car spaces, and ample staff and customer parking.
Part of one of Sydney’s fastest developing suburbs, it is near well established businesses, cafés, and public transport.
It’s on the market for $1.2 million and is offered by IB Property, Annandale.
88 Anzac Parade in Kensington boasts a huge 209sqm of floor space. Picture: realcommercial.com.au
Well-located positioning
Home to ‘That Pilates Place,’ Suite 302 / 3 Fordham Way, Oran Park is on the market for $1.295 million.
The building – sold as a going concern – includes 140sqm of prime grade commercial space, visitor, street and basement car parking, and is surrounded by established retail and public transport.
That Pilates Place has about 18 months of a three year lease remaining.
Arabesque lunge to your heart’s content at this studio in Oran Park. Picture: realcommercial.com.au
Boutique offering
The listing describes this boutique Pilates space at 7/88 Mountain Street in Ultimo as “immaculately presented,” with a spacious open-plan layout abundant in natural light and street visibility.
Spanning 77sqm, it ideally suited to a range of owner-occupiers seeking office, showroom, or medical consulting space.
It has an asking price of $490,000.
Sneak a workout in before work at this studio in Ultimo. Picture: realcommercial.com.au