Beyond Pilates: Creating a New Movement
Seven years ago, Erin Brooks and Claire Victor were two friends navigating the fast-paced world of hospitality in Sydney. Little did they know that their shared passion for community and movement would lead them to establish one of the city’s most unique Pilates studios, Studio Mouvoir, in Surry Hills. "We never intended on doing our training at the same time, it just happened," Erin recalls. "We had always had a love for food and community and shared values about creating a space that was beyond Pilates. A space that was really different and more than just Pilates."
Their journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic when they both decided to enrol in Pilates training programs with KX Academy and Unite Health. "Training with KX and Unite Health was a really good starting point for us," says Erin. "It makes for a tough, challenging trainer. We learned a lot about teaching, layering, and loading among other things. But the real inspiration came on the job. Working at different studios across Sydney gave us the vision to create our own style."
Claire adds, "Initially, we weren’t looking for a space. We were just chatting to a friend who said we should meet a landlord upstairs about taking over a lease. She introduced us, and the rest was history!"
Building Studio Mouvoir
Within two whirlwind months, Erin and Claire transformed their vision into reality, completing the build of Studio Mouvoir. "That was big. It was a blur," Erin laughs. Claire admits, "Especially when neither of us had experience opening a studio before. We were lucky to have support from friends and family, and lots of learning along the way. It happened organically and beautifully."
Studio Mouvoir’s philosophy centers on creating an immersive and community-driven Pilates experience. "One of the biggest things for us is energy, vibe, and music," Erin explains. "Claire is the music DJ, and we’ve designed a space where music plays a central role in the experience. We’ve built a mirrored wall that reflects the cityscape, paired with a high-quality sound system to create an immersive environment. You’re doing Pilates to the beat, using tempo and structure to flow with the music."
Claire elaborates, "We saw that many studios used pop or mainstream music, but we wanted to do something different. Our playlists feature world music, Afro beats, and Brazilian rhythms. The warm, vibrant sound makes you want to move."
A Unique Approach to Pilates
Studio Mouvoir offers Foundations, Signature, Progressive, and Mouvoir Mat classes, each focusing on flow and layering. "We like to work through transitions," Erin says. "For example, if you’re in a front-facing lunge on the left side, we’ll keep working that side first. It’s like a dance around the machine. Not a lot of stop-start, minimal spring changes, and lots of levels. You’re always moving, even during active recovery."
This rhythm-driven approach creates a sense of unity and energy. "It’s like a dance," Erin explains. "When everyone’s moving together, it drives you to keep going. It’s inspiring to see and feel the energy of the group."
The studio also offers Afro dance classes infused with Pilates, which have been a hit among their clients. "These classes are so much fun," Erin shares. "We’re also big on collaborations within the industry to support and learn from each other."
Designing a Community-Centric Space
Studio Mouvoir’s design reflects Erin and Claire’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community. "Everyone talks to each other here. It’s not sterile. It’s friendly and relaxed," Claire says. "We’ve designed the reception to feel like a lounge room, creating a space where clients can connect and feel at home."
Erin’s background in fashion played a role in the studio’s four-metre willowing linen curtains, which she made herself. “We wanted it to be warm and inviting, with thoughtful details that make it feel special,” she explains. The duo’s complementary skill sets have allowed them to seamlessly split responsibilities. "We’re very similar but also very different, which has helped us create something truly unique," Erin adds.
Growth and Future Plans
In just six months, Studio Mouvoir has grown to offer 65 classes per week, with plans to expand. "We’re lucky to have an amazing team of 13 trainers," Erin says. "When we started, we taught 80% of the classes ourselves, but now we’re focusing on growing the business and finding balance."
Looking ahead, the duo plans to host more events, challenges, and unique community gatherings. "We want to keep it small and special," Erin notes. "We’re all about quality over quantity."
Advice for Aspiring Studio Owners
For those dreaming of opening their own studio, Erin advises, "Take your time through the build process. Stay true to the method and your creativity. Don’t worry about what others are doing; focus on your community. Trust yourself and just be you—you’ll create something special."
Claire adds, "It can be stressful just being a Pilates teacher, and opening your own place comes with even more expectations. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Embrace it, but don’t let it overwhelm you."
Studio Mouvoir stands as a testament to Erin and Claire’s vision, creativity, and dedication. "It’s hard to be different in Pilates," Claire concludes. "But if you have an idea that’s out of the ordinary, just go with it. That’s how you create something truly unique."
Claire
Originally from Bordeaux, France, Claire moved to Sydney seven years ago, where she discovered a true passion for Pilates and began her teaching journey soon after. Claire’s classes are rhythm-driven and adaptable to all levels. They challenge strength, endurance, and stability, delivering a full-body workout in a safe and fun environment.
Erin
Growing up on Sydney's Northern Beaches, Erin developed a deep love for movement, which led her to Pilates and yoga over a decade ago. Her teaching combines creative, dynamic flows with a strong focus on form, the mind-body connection through flow, and empowering people of all ages, abilities, and body types.
Studio Mouvoir is based in Surry Hills, Sydney, Australia.