Perth’s fitness landscape is set for an invigorating refresh with the imminent arrival of The Reformer Studio, an acclaimed pilates venture founded by two enterprising mothers from Broughty Ferry. Poised to open its doors on Scott Street, the studio will host a special soft launch event this Saturday, complete with celebratory prosecco and a lively DJ, before its official commencement of classes on Monday.
This expansion marks a significant milestone for co-founders Shona Lees, 35, and Lyndsey Donald, 41, who first established their unique resistance-based pilates business in Broughty Ferry in June of the previous year. Their success has now paved the way for not one, but two new locations, with a Fife studio also slated to launch in Newport next month. Tapping into Perth’s Untapped Wellness Market
The decision to expand into Perth was driven by a clear observation of local demand and a gap in the market. Shona explained that they recognized a distinct absence of a dedicated, boutique reformer pilates space in Perth, despite a noticeable interest from residents. Many individuals were already making the journey from Perth to attend their classes in Broughty Ferry, underscoring the need for a more accessible option in the Fair City.
“It felt like a very natural progression for us,” Shona commented. “While opening additional studios was always on our long-term horizon, the opportunity to secure such an ideal location in Perth presented itself sooner than expected, and it was simply too good to let pass.”
Lyndsey reflected on their journey, describing the past year in Broughty Ferry as “truly remarkable.” She emphasized how the business has not only flourished but has also cultivated a vibrant and supportive community. “Looking back, it’s incredible to see how much we’ve accomplished,” she shared. “Our clients have formed genuine friendships, and we constantly hear stories about how our classes have positively impacted both their physical and mental well-being. There are moments when it genuinely feels surreal, and it hardly feels like work at all.”
The duo is committed to replicating this same sense of belonging and camaraderie in their new Perth establishment. Lyndsey noted that their initial approach in Broughty Ferry began with core reformer classes, gradually evolving to include special events and amenities like a studio bar. “Perth will undoubtedly receive the same dedicated care and attention as we grow,” she assured. An Adaptable and Inclusive Approach to Pilates
The Reformer Studio in Perth will feature a diverse team of experienced instructors, including Shona and Lyndsey themselves, ensuring a broad range of teaching styles and approaches. “Our team is truly eclectic, allowing us to cater to the unique needs and preferences of each individual client,” Shona highlighted.
She elaborated on the varying methodologies within their team: “Some of our instructors lean towards traditional pilates, utilizing the reformer as a foundational piece of equipment, while others, like ourselves, teach a more dynamic and energetic style of reformer pilates.”
A key advantage of reformer pilates, according to Shona, lies in its remarkable versatility, largely thanks to the adjustable spring tension of the machines. “You can perform virtually any exercise you would do on a mat, but the added tension from the springs can either amplify the challenge or make movements more accessible, depending on the client’s needs,” she explained. “Many potential clients initially express apprehension, but the reformer’s adaptability actually helps them progress beyond what they thought capable.”
The Perth studio will initially offer mixed-ability classes to accommodate all levels of experience. As clients advance, the curriculum will evolve to include more specialized levels. “We anticipate a significant number of new clients will be unfamiliar with this style of teaching, so our focus will be on providing a welcoming and supportive environment for beginners,” Shona stated. “There’s no need to feel intimidated by a mixed-ability class – rest assured, you’ll be in expert hands, and every session is thoughtfully designed to empower clients to challenge themselves at their own comfortable pace.” Expanding Across Tayside and Fife
In addition to the highly anticipated Perth launch, The Reformer Studio is also set to unveil its third location in Newport next month. This expansion further solidifies their commitment to bringing high-quality reformer pilates to communities across the region.
“The Newport opportunity, much like Perth, arose very organically,” Lyndsey recounted. “We hadn’t initially planned to open two studios in such quick succession, but the sheer beauty and potential of the Newport space made it an irresistible prospect.”
Their overarching vision is clear: “Our dream is to replicate the thriving community and safe space we’ve cultivated in Broughty Ferry across the entirety of Tayside and Fife,” Lyndsey affirmed. “We are profoundly grateful for the trust our clients place in us, allowing us to contribute positively to both their physical and mental well-being.” The Reformer Studio invites prospective clients to visit their website for class schedules and booking information.
This expansion marks a significant milestone for co-founders Shona Lees, 35, and Lyndsey Donald, 41, who first established their unique resistance-based pilates business in Broughty Ferry in June of the previous year. Their success has now paved the way for not one, but two new locations, with a Fife studio also slated to launch in Newport next month. Tapping into Perth’s Untapped Wellness Market
The decision to expand into Perth was driven by a clear observation of local demand and a gap in the market. Shona explained that they recognized a distinct absence of a dedicated, boutique reformer pilates space in Perth, despite a noticeable interest from residents. Many individuals were already making the journey from Perth to attend their classes in Broughty Ferry, underscoring the need for a more accessible option in the Fair City.
“It felt like a very natural progression for us,” Shona commented. “While opening additional studios was always on our long-term horizon, the opportunity to secure such an ideal location in Perth presented itself sooner than expected, and it was simply too good to let pass.”
Lyndsey reflected on their journey, describing the past year in Broughty Ferry as “truly remarkable.” She emphasized how the business has not only flourished but has also cultivated a vibrant and supportive community. “Looking back, it’s incredible to see how much we’ve accomplished,” she shared. “Our clients have formed genuine friendships, and we constantly hear stories about how our classes have positively impacted both their physical and mental well-being. There are moments when it genuinely feels surreal, and it hardly feels like work at all.”
The duo is committed to replicating this same sense of belonging and camaraderie in their new Perth establishment. Lyndsey noted that their initial approach in Broughty Ferry began with core reformer classes, gradually evolving to include special events and amenities like a studio bar. “Perth will undoubtedly receive the same dedicated care and attention as we grow,” she assured. An Adaptable and Inclusive Approach to Pilates
The Reformer Studio in Perth will feature a diverse team of experienced instructors, including Shona and Lyndsey themselves, ensuring a broad range of teaching styles and approaches. “Our team is truly eclectic, allowing us to cater to the unique needs and preferences of each individual client,” Shona highlighted.
She elaborated on the varying methodologies within their team: “Some of our instructors lean towards traditional pilates, utilizing the reformer as a foundational piece of equipment, while others, like ourselves, teach a more dynamic and energetic style of reformer pilates.”
A key advantage of reformer pilates, according to Shona, lies in its remarkable versatility, largely thanks to the adjustable spring tension of the machines. “You can perform virtually any exercise you would do on a mat, but the added tension from the springs can either amplify the challenge or make movements more accessible, depending on the client’s needs,” she explained. “Many potential clients initially express apprehension, but the reformer’s adaptability actually helps them progress beyond what they thought capable.”
The Perth studio will initially offer mixed-ability classes to accommodate all levels of experience. As clients advance, the curriculum will evolve to include more specialized levels. “We anticipate a significant number of new clients will be unfamiliar with this style of teaching, so our focus will be on providing a welcoming and supportive environment for beginners,” Shona stated. “There’s no need to feel intimidated by a mixed-ability class – rest assured, you’ll be in expert hands, and every session is thoughtfully designed to empower clients to challenge themselves at their own comfortable pace.” Expanding Across Tayside and Fife
In addition to the highly anticipated Perth launch, The Reformer Studio is also set to unveil its third location in Newport next month. This expansion further solidifies their commitment to bringing high-quality reformer pilates to communities across the region.
“The Newport opportunity, much like Perth, arose very organically,” Lyndsey recounted. “We hadn’t initially planned to open two studios in such quick succession, but the sheer beauty and potential of the Newport space made it an irresistible prospect.”
Their overarching vision is clear: “Our dream is to replicate the thriving community and safe space we’ve cultivated in Broughty Ferry across the entirety of Tayside and Fife,” Lyndsey affirmed. “We are profoundly grateful for the trust our clients place in us, allowing us to contribute positively to both their physical and mental well-being.” The Reformer Studio invites prospective clients to visit their website for class schedules and booking information.