IN THE CLUB
Found: the perfect balance between super-gyms and boutique studios.
IF A LARGE GYM IS TOO IMPERSONAL and a small studio too niche, then a new wellness club may be just right. “We were inspired to create a more inclusive environment and a place that considers the mental and social benefits of fitness, too,” says Matt Lennon from Sydney’s Paramount Recreational Club. Explore the next generation of fit spots shaking it up...
WILLOW URBAN RETREAT, MELBOURNE A Victorian terrace on Armadale’s high street is home to Willow, a luxe, serene space that combines a welcoming cafe with trendy fitness classes (think low-impact trampoline cardio) and heavenly ayurveda spa treatments. It’s possible to duck in for a 45-minute lunch-time barre class, but chances are you’ll want to linger in the infrared sauna, or stay for an aromatherapy steam shower followed by a signature rose quartz facial, ensuring you’ve really put the “treat” in retreat.
Introductory offer of $60 for three weeks, willowurbanretreat.com.au
PARAMOUNT RECREATION CLUB, SYDNEY Perched on a rooftop in Surry Hills, this sleek, modern outfit is made for intimate fitness classes (max nine people per session) and catch-ups over organic kombucha. With a varied timetable that includes boxing, yoga, Pilates and stretching, plus chiro, physio, massage and nutritional experts, the Rec Club offers something for everybody. Fuel up before or after at their Kiosk, complete with outdoor seating — they’d love if you made yourself at home.
$35 for a casual pass, paramountrecreation.club
CULTIVATE RECOVERY, SYDNEY Supplement your current workouts with a little R&R courtesy of this Sydney outpost solely focused on recovery. Bring relief to achy muscles and fight fatigue with spot-treatment cryotherapy treatments (perfect for muscle inflammation), or a Normatec massage which reduces lactic acid build-up.
From $35 for a 30-minute infrared sauna, cultivaterecovery.com.au