Opening a Pilates studio is never just about the aesthetics — it’s about building a community with longevity, a smart layout, and equipment that performs under pressure. For Roz and Dave Norman, founders of Queensland’s Pilates & Co, the journey from their first studio in Burleigh to their fourth in Pimpama has been powered by one constant: Merrithew equipment, supplied by Leisure Concepts.

“Four studios later, we’re still with Merrithew,” says Roz. “Merrithew has supported us through every stage of expansion,” says Roz. “It’s high-quality, adaptable, and gives us the confidence to scale without compromising the client experience.”

Now celebrating a decade in business, Pilates & Co has become a leading name in the Queensland Pilates scene. Their studios — in Burleigh, Bundall, Robina, and now Pimpama — reflect a clear formula: smart studio design, trusted trades, and premium equipment that scales with them.

The Studio Setup That Works

From repurposing boxing gyms and F45 spaces to working with open-plan designs and dual-room setups, the Normans have perfected their model. They work backward from opening day, mapping every element from air con placement to reformer count.

“We know what works for us: two rows of seven reformers. That’s our golden number,” Roz explains. “Our studios are typically 220–250 square metres, and that layout gives us the flow and teaching space we need.”

They outfit each studio with 14 Merrithew reformers, two Cadillacs, chairs, barrels, and the larger V2 Max Reformer — all supplied by Leisure Concepts.

“We’ve built such a strong relationship with Leisure Concepts that it just runs smoothly now. It’s now a partnership.”

Why Merrithew Still Leads

When Roz made the decision to test other brands for one of her studios, it didn’t take long to reverse course.

“We once bought a couple of non-Merrithew Cadillacs and a barrel— six months in, every instructor was complaining. The feel was off, the ride wasn’t smooth, and our members picked up on it too. We sold them and went back to Merrithew.”

That consistency matters when you're running up to 75 group reformer and small group classes per location.

“We have one Merrithew Cadillac that’s 10 years old. It still runs beautifully. You just don’t get that kind of longevity elsewhere.”

More Than Equipment — A Business Asset

With four locations, sold-out teen classes, new senior programs launching, and strength-based formats like their Strength by 8 small group series, Roz and Dave need equipment that adapts.

“We’re always thinking about how a space can flex. Can we film workshops here? Will this work for teacher training? Can we rearrange for a specialty class?”

Merrithew’s durability, mobility and the stackable reformers give them the flexibility they need.

Advice for New Studio Owners

Roz has some hard-earned wisdom for anyone fitting out a studio:

— Start with a spreadsheet and a floor plan — know your numbers and your flow.

— Don’t overcommit on gear you haven’t tested — buy what suits your client base.

— Ask about maintenance — “Merrithew’s low maintenance. We rarely have issues, but when we do, Leisure Concepts is on it.”

— Think about wear and tear after year four — “Cheap up front can be expensive later.”

What Makes the Difference

In an increasingly competitive market, having a studio that runs well — from the equipment up — is crucial. For Roz, the equation is simple.

“The reason we keep choosing Merrithew is because it delivers. We know our clients will feel at home, and our instructors are confident teaching on it. I’ve been happy with their equipment since day one!” said Roz.