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What began as a reluctant decision to attend a single Pilates class has grown into a rapidly expanding local fitness business focused on wellbeing, community and accessibility.
Like many parents, studio owner Carissa Vaudrey admits her own health had slipped down the priority list. Encouraged by a close friend to try Reformer Pilates at a Studio Pilates location, she initially resisted before eventually attending her first class. The experience proved to be a turning point.
“It wasn’t just the workout – it was how it made me feel,” she said. “It was fun, empowering and structured, and for the first time in a long time I wanted to go back.”
At the time, she was on a 12-month career break after selling her corporate business and recovering from burnout. That first Pilates experience sparked a broader reassessment of her goals. After months of reflection, she decided she wanted to help others reinvest in their own health and wellbeing.
Within six weeks, she purchased three Studio Pilates territories, committing to opening three studios over three years. The growth exceeded expectations, with four studios now operating within two-and-a-half years – in Silverdale, Helensville, Kumeu and now Warkworth.
She says her focus remains on providing a safe, supportive and inclusive environment for people to work towards their individual health and fitness goals.
Pilates itself continues to gain popularity for its wide-ranging benefits. As a low-impact, high-resistance, full-body workout, Pilates focuses on strength, control, flexibility and posture. Using precise and controlled movements, it builds deep core strength while improving overall movement and alignment.
Regular Pilates practice has been shown to improve posture, increase flexibility, strengthen muscles without adding bulk, reduce injury risk, and support both physical and mental wellbeing.
Vaudrey says the studios cater to clients ranging in age from 15 to 75, highlighting the adaptability of Pilates for different fitness levels and abilities.
“It is commonly used to build core strength, reduce back pain, improve functional movement, assist with weight loss and increase overall strength,” she says.
“Studio Pilates sets itself apart through its physiotherapist-designed programming. Classes follow scientifically sequenced exercises to ensure workouts are both safe and effective. Each session incorporates specialised in-studio screens that provide visual demonstrations and audio coaching, allowing instructors to focus on correcting technique and ensuring proper alignment.”
While classes are delivered in a group environment, there is a strong one-on-one component, with instructors providing hands-on corrections and tailored enhancements throughout each session.
The Warkworth and Silverdale studios have also become known for their strong sense of community.
Vaudrey says members come from a wide range of backgrounds, united by a shared focus on health, strength and personal improvement.
The studios aim to challenge common misconceptions about Pilates, placing emphasis on results rather than aesthetics.
“This isn’t about mirrors or social media trends. It’s about research-based movement that helps people feel stronger, move better and see real results.”
