We Love Local: Paola’s BodyBarre

Tell us a little bit about Paola’s BodyBarre 

Paola's BodyBarre is a boutique style fitness studio set in Munster Village in Fulham. 

It is a beautiful building which was originally a place of worship. The building itself, with double height ceiling leading up to a beautiful sky light, draws much attention and has a warehouse loft-style feel about it.

It is unique for the building itself!  Many members have said they love the friendly welcoming atmosphere it has, unlike big intimidating gyms or super gyms.

I actually live next door so I also try to make it feel like the members are coming into a very welcoming home! The atmosphere is very relaxed. Members and trainers alike have said the studio has a lovely "vibe".

You can have a class and then hang out for a fresh juice or healthy treats which are delivered daily.

We have a very personalised approach, with classes being no greater than 14 people.

The main classes offered are “The Paola's BodyBarre Method” which in itself is unique in Fulham. The method is also offered in KX Kensington and Grace Belgravia.

We also have varying styles of yoga (Yin, Power Yoga and Jivamukti), dynamic pilates, pre/post natal classes and Hybrid classes combining TRX and Barre, TRX-Kettle Bells, Bootcamps, Fit-Camp Ballerina and functional training. For personal training we also offer one to ones in all the above disciplines

When did the business first begin?

Paola's BodyBarre only opened 7 weeks ago! It has attracted a lot of locals who love the convenience of the location as well as the "neighbourly" feel it has about it.

What do you enjoy most about working there?

I love working there firstly because it's my own studio and it's an extension of my home so I am close to my three children, and secondly I love the feeling of bringing the community together.

What I love the most about fitness and Pilates is seeing how happy it makes my clients, especially when they start seeing results. It is extremely rewarding when you see such big changes to not only people's bodies but also to their mind sets - there tends to be a sense of positivity. The environment allows the members to mingle and train within a non-threatening, non-intimidating environment - we like to keep things light!

All I can say is we tend to have quite a few laughs within the classes and we don't take ourselves too seriously. We have fun with it. That doesn't mean we don't make you work hard though!

Is Paola's BodyBarre for experienced fitness fanatics, or are beginners also welcome?

We have every type of shapes, sizes and fitness levels at PBB. We have retained nearly all our clients for the first 6 weeks and we can certainly see the results. We modify all the movements if needed, meaning anyone can join into each and every class.

What would you say to someone starting out with exercise and looking to get fit?

I would always say you have to start somewhere. There's no time like the present!  If you have low fitness levels and little strength, know that no matter what, with a little time and dedication you will build strength rather quickly. 

As I have said we are a very friendly studio and no one is there to judge you, only to encourage you and help you reach your goals.

At Douglas & Gordon, we love local. Why do you love Fulham?

I absolutely love Fulham. It is where I ‘landed’ when I came from Australia 17 years ago and I have always gravitated back! I love all the varying pockets of Fulham, from the chic shops and cafes in Parson's Green, to the hustle and bustle of the markets on the North End Road which have some fabulous fresh produce. I'm loving all the fantastic new shops that are popping up like Whole Foods, Poppy's on Munster Road, March on Fulham Road and of course all the other fabulous shops that have survived the downturn like Ruth's Indian Summer, and Plum and Olive. There are too many to mention! Fulham is really coming along. I have to say Bishop's Park with the children on the weekend is a favourite spot of mine though.

Paola’s BodyBarre is collaborating with Douglas & Gordon for the love of all things local and is kindly offering a free taster class and £40 for 30 days for any new clients who mention Douglas & Gordon! To find out more about PBB, visit their website at www.paolasbodybarre.com or follow them on Twitter.