In an upstairs room above High St in Wodonga, there’s a space where women meet to keep their body moving and put their well-being and nutrition first.
Jo Parker, owner of The Real Girls Movement, saw a market for a 40 plus girls only group fitness studio where sessions are fun and supportive.
“My business is aimed at women approaching their 40’s and beyond, with our youngest member 34 and our member with the most ‘life experience’ just turned 70,” she said.
“Our classes are capped at a maximum of 12 so I can meet individual needs and provide personalised service, for instance those who might be nursing an injury or managing age-related wear and tear.”
Exercise and workouts can be scaled to suit individual needs such as fitness level or injury.
Personal one-on-one training is also offered.
Jo started her business operating out of the Thurgoona Community Centre for six years before the opportunity arose to take up a prominent location at 1/83 High St just over a year ago.
“I love this central location, it’s convenient and there’s lots of parking,” she said.
“Everyone who signs up is joining a community of amazing women who support and encourage each other every step of the way.
"We have been here for each other through what life throws at us, the challenges and celebrations, and seen each other’s children grow over the years.”
Jo explained each workout is different.
“With a focus on functional fitness our sessions include strength, mobility and cardio,” she said.
“As well as unlimited in-person workouts, being a member includes a library of workouts available on the Real Girls Sweat app, weekly recipes and healthy habit challenges.”
Jo said she was inspired to change careers almost a decade ago while working as an information technology lecturer, taking the final leap in 2020 to run her business full-time, and has not looked back.
“I am passionate about my business and the community it’s created and enjoy seeing women get stronger each week and reach their personal goals,” she said.
Her business motto is transforming women’s health and fitness without burpees, fads or diets.
“You won’t see anyone doing burpees here,” she said.
“It is my vision and mission to help women believe in themselves, to chase their dreams and to live a life they love through living a sustainable healthy lifestyle.”
To enquire about a free trial or to sign up, contact Jo at 0477 505 531 or email jo@realgirls.com.au