In the heart of Canada, where resilience and community spirit are strong, the Mariana Tek Boutique Studio Awards 2023 are celebrating the fitness scene. This year, we’re not just highlighting the best in boutique fitness; we’re honoring the Canadian culture of strength, diversity, and unity through wellness.
These awards bring into focus studios that have become more than fitness centers—they are the pulsating hearts of their communities, embodying the true Canadian spirit of inclusivity and innovation. Join us as we delve into the stories of these award-winning Canadian studios, each a beacon of excellence in their own right.
Meet the Champions: 2023 Mariana Tek Award Winners in Canada
Full House Award – Pranify Yoga, Kelowna
Pranify Yoga in Kelowna, formerly known as Modo Yoga, has rebranded itself while continuing its journey of growth since 2011. This studio stands as a beacon of vitality and power, deeply rooted in the ancient traditions of yoga. It’s not just a place to practice yoga; it’s a community where every individual is encouraged to live awake, engaged, and embodied.
Turning Fitness into a Full-Blown Event: Pranify Yoga has mastered the art of creating event-like experiences in their yoga sessions. Their classes are more than just a series of poses; they are journeys of inquiry and discovery, harmonizing breath, movement, and sensation. This approach has turned Pranify Yoga into a magnet for reservations, ensuring a full house at every session.
Reflecting on this unique journey, the founders shared:
“The first reaction was an emotional wave of feelings. It has been a wild ride since opening our doors in 2014. Moving to a new country, establishing a studio in an unfamiliar city, and creating a community from scratch was challenging. Yet, the stories of our students and the community, filled with laughter, tears, and triumphs, make this experience incredibly rewarding.”
A Community of Conscious Human Beings: What truly sets Pranify Yoga apart is its commitment to individual and community care. The studio is devoted to creating a space where everyone can find a sacred pause and meet themselves exactly where they are. This ethos resonates deeply with their clientele, creating a loyal community that returns time and again for both the physical and spiritual nourishment offered.
The studio’s approach to fostering this community is multifaceted as the team at Pranify Yoga explains:
“We prioritize face time with our students, using the time before and after classes for human connection, support, and laughter. This fosters relationships that encourage people to return. Our diverse and talented team, from management to volunteers, works together to bring the studio to life. We also aim to remove obstacles by offering flexible memberships and easy scheduling, because life is stressful enough – yoga shouldn’t be,”
Setting High Standards in Yoga Practice: Pranify Yoga’s commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of their operation. “What makes Pranify stand out is our standards. From the moment students walk through the door, they’re immersed in an experience that extends beyond the studio space. Our teachers, each with unique qualities and life experiences, show their love and appreciation throughout the studio and the community. With unique classes and a welcoming environment, we ensure that Pranify is more than just a yoga studio; it’s a sanctuary for the soul,” the founders proudly state.
This dedication to creating a holistic and nurturing environment is what has earned Pranify Yoga the Full House Award, marking them as a leader in Canada’s fitness community.
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Lasting Community Award – Sweat and Tonic, Yonge / Shuter
Sweat and Tonic, located in the heart of downtown Toronto, is more than just a fitness studio; it’s a wellness hub where sweat addicts can challenge their minds and bodies. Since opening its doors in 2019, Sweat and Tonic has become a local legend, offering a diverse range of workout classes, wellness, and recovery services.
Creating a Vibrant Social Hub: Sweat and Tonic excels in transforming fitness routines into lively social experiences. With a team of skilled movement experts and a broad selection of yoga, pilates, HIIT, and ride workout classes, they cater to all fitness levels. Their approach to wellness and recovery, featuring amenities like infrared saunas and massage services, enriches the overall experience. They are crafting a unique space for health, fitness, and community, proudly stating:
“Our mission is to bring together the best of boutique fitness and wellness under one roof,”
A Place to Belong: The heart of Sweat and Tonic is its commitment to fostering an inclusive community that grows, succeeds, and celebrates together. Tonic House is designed not just for fitness but as a hub for connection and inspiration. This dedication to community and inclusivity is why Sweat and Tonic has earned the Lasting Community Award. Expressing their gratitude, they share,
“We feel incredibly grateful! It has always been our priority to create a fitness and wellness space where everyone is welcome and included.”
Resilience and Innovation: Sweat and Tonic’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the guest experience. Navigating through the challenges of the pandemic, they launched a virtual platform and introduced Sweat on the Roof, an innovative outdoor fitness studio. They reflect,
“With every challenge that came our way, we continued to be resilient and committed to innovation and serving our community.”
Their cutting-edge facilities, diverse class offerings, and focus on guest experience distinguish them in the industry.
Sweat and Tonic is more than just a fitness studio; it’s a hub that has reshaped the wellness scene in Toronto. Their passion for creating an inclusive, innovative, and exceptional wellness experience is what makes them a standout in the fitness community.
Be Our Guest Award – Spin Society, Mt. Pleasant
Spin Society located in the vibrant neighborhood of Mt. Pleasant, is redefining the indoor cycling experience. Their unique approach to rhythm riding combines great beats, challenging workouts, and a motivational atmosphere, making every session an invigorating journey.
Welcoming Sweat Sessions: At Spin Society, every ride is more than just a workout; it’s a heart-pounding, empowering experience. They have crafted an environment where everyone, from first-timers to seasoned riders, feels welcomed and inspired. This inclusive and energizing atmosphere is why Spin Society is the proud recipient of the Be Our Guest Award.
Innovative Approach to Fitness: Spin Society stands out with its variety of classes, including their signature 50-minute rhythm-based journey and the intense 90-minute endurance rides. They also offer unique experiences like the Headphone 50, where riders control their music volume, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience. This innovative spirit makes every visit to Spin Society a new adventure.
Growth Guru Award – Othership, Adelaide
Othership at Adelaide is not just a fitness studio; it’s a wellness destination. With its awe-inspiring 50-person performance sauna and custom-designed ice baths, Othership offers a unique blend of heat and ice experiences that cater to both physical and mental well-being.
A Soaring Success Story: Othership’s approach to wellness is revolutionary, combining traditional practices with modern techniques. Their performance sauna and ice baths are not just about physical recovery; they are tools for transformation and community building. This innovative approach to wellness has led to a significant increase in their membership numbers, earning them the Growth Guru Award.
Building a Healthy Community: Othership is more than a place to sweat; it’s a community hub where people come together to shift their state and build belonging. Their focus on creating a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone to gather and grow together has been a key factor in their success.
Closing Thoughts: Celebrating Canadian Boutique Studios in 2023
In conclusion, these Canadian studios, each a winner in their respective categories, exemplify the best of boutique fitness. They have not only set high standards in their fields but have also created spaces that foster community, wellness, and personal growth. The Mariana Tek Boutique Studio Awards 2023 has rightly spotlighted these studios, showcasing the diverse and vibrant fitness landscape of Canada.
by Xplor Mariana Tek
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First published: January 24 2024
Written by: Xplor Mariana Tek