Pilates helps reform local economy

MILDURA is transforming from the wild west into a wellness hub, according to local real estate agents and new business owners.

And pilates seems to be the new strength-based training people are aiming for, with more seven businesses opening up in district the last few years.

Sharnie Clark, the new franchisee of @pilates 24/7 Mildura, said because of the push for wellness in Sunraysia, she had to come up with a studio with a difference.

“I think we’ve got such a broad variety of exercise and wellness here from naturopaths through to gyms, so we’re very well accommodated,” she said.

“I can’t even count on two hands how many pilates studios we have.”

Ms Clark said her studio is different in that it’s open 24 hours, and clients can work out at their own pace, in their own time.

“We’re a hybrid studio, so we do have staff trainers here, but all of your teaching is done on the screen, so our platform has over 500 classes on it and over 30 instructors, so you’re never doing the same thing,” she said.

“You can move at your own pace, and you can choose what exercises suit you best, while someone supports you if you need.”

@pilates 24/7 Mildura is located in Fifteenth Street, an Ms Clark said a recovery area is also in the works so people can relax after a hard hours reforming.

“Our recovery section is coming too in the next week or so, so we’ll have a sauna and ice bath available as well,” she said.

“We are continuously evolving and forever expanding our classes.

“We’ve got everything in here, including pilates for men, and it’s good for footballers with their balance and coordination.”

Head of leasing at commercial real estate agency Burgess Rawson from CBRE, John Brown, said Mildura has become wellness and business hub due to its climate, workforce, and strong economy.

“Mildura is quickly becoming an attractive location for national retailers and unique health and wellness concepts,” he said.

“The city’s expanding population and strong local economy are driving demand for quality retail spaces, especially those focused on lifestyle and wellbeing.”

Mr Brown said Sunraysia residents enjoy active lifestyles, and that’s reflected in new business opportunities in the health and wellness sectors.

“The new pilates studio enhances Mildura’s retail precincts by providing residents with access to innovative health services that support the city’s active lifestyle,” he said.

“We are seeing strong interest from national and boutique brands looking to establish in Mildura, while the region’s lifestyle appeal and growing customer base make it an exciting market for health, wellness, and retail businesses alike.”