A 22-year-old Ipswich entrepreneur is setting out to change the way Australians experience Pilates, launching a new studio model designed to make reformer Pilates more accessible, flexible and affordable.
Georgie Thomas, founder of Pilates Depot, has opened her first studio at Yamanto Central Shopping Centre, introducing a hybrid concept that blends traditional instructor-led classes with self-serve, kiosk-guided reformer sessions.
“Pilates is incredible for strength and wellbeing, but the traditional studio model doesn’t suit everyone,” Ms Thomas said.
“Like 24-hour gyms, I wanted to create something that fits around real life – shift work, parenting, early starts and unpredictable schedules.”
The studio’s self-serve kiosk system allows members to complete guided reformer workouts independently, choosing from more than 800 on-demand classes available at any time of day.
Each reformer is positioned along the studio wall with its own mirror and large screen kiosk, allowing users to simply select a class and follow the guided session on their own machine.
Headphones are provided, with the option for members to connect their own wireless devices.
“Not everyone wants to train at set class times or pay premium prices,” Ms Thomas said.
“Our kiosks give people freedom and control while still delivering high-quality programming.”
Open from 4am to 10pm, seven days a week, Pilates Depot has already attracted strong demand from nurses, shift workers, early risers and Pilates enthusiasts, with the studio operating near capacity just weeks after opening.
Accessibility and affordability are central to the business model, Ms Thomas said, with the hybrid approach helping reduce costs and pass savings on to members.
“Pilates shouldn’t feel exclusive,” she said.
The studio offers a broad mix of classes, ranging from foundational and strength- focused reformer sessions to high-energy cardio workouts, catering to beginners through to experienced users.
Born and bred in Ipswich and launching her first business at just 22, Ms Thomas already has her sights set beyond Queensland.
“This is a scalable model,” she said.
“Our goal is to roll Pilates Depot out nationally and change expectations around how Pilates studios operate.
“We’re creating a smarter, more inclusive way to do Pilates.”
