Love Athletica - Hawthorne

Love Athletica - Hawthorne

Melbourne, Australia

The Love Athletica Story

Love Athletica was founded in 2018 by Mat and Caroline Knipe, combining business strategy with design-led studio environments. The brand operates multiple studios across Australia, with a strong Melbourne footprint spanning Hawthorn East, Richmond, Windsor, Caulfield South, Malvern East, and South Yarra.

Love Athletica is known for its athletic approach to Pilates, delivering fast-paced Reformer sessions that incorporate cardio intervals alongside traditional Pilates principles. Music plays a central role in the experience, with curated playlists designed to align with the structure and intensity of each class. In addition to reformer training, the brand has expanded into heated mat Pilates and hybrid formats.

The studio aesthetic is a defining feature, with interiors positioned as premium, spa-inspired environments. Love Athletica has expanded interstate in recent years, positioning itself as a growing national boutique fitness chain.

How Did Love Athletica Hawthorne Score Overall?

The full client experience at Love Athletica Hawthorne was impressive, achieving The Fit Guide Award Of Excellence.

The class was also excellent and has achieved our Class Experience Award of Excellence.

The Highlights

The class was delivered with confident coaching and clear structure.

The neon-lit studio design created a bold and memorable environment.

What Our Evaluator Had To Say

“The coaching felt really solid and I always knew what I was doing.”

“The space looked amazing and had so much personality.”

“I felt supported during the workout and challenged in a good way.”

What to Expect From A Love Athletica Hawthorne Session

Love Athletica delivers reformer-based Pilates sessions built around strength, control and high energy. Expect a structured 50-minute class with layered progressions, steady pacing and clear guidance. Sessions combine controlled reformer work with dynamic sequences designed to build endurance and full-body strength in a confident, visually striking environment.

The Reception Service

Our pre-visit call to the studio was not answered. In person, the experience improved quickly. We were greeted promptly, acknowledged as first timers and checked in efficiently. A clear walkthrough covered lockers, toilets and the water station, which helped us settle in with confidence.

The tone remained polite and professional, and everything ran on time. Conversations were mostly reactive. Pricing and options were discussed when we asked, though there was limited exploration of our goals and no clear next step suggested. Service was friendly and efficient.

The Class Experience

Love Athletica Hawthorn received our Class Experience Award of Excellence.

The class was a highlight. It started on time, the 50-minute structure was explained clearly and an injury check was conducted at the beginning. Instructions were easy to follow, demonstrations were clear and progressions and regressions were layered effectively.

Coaching during the main workout was confident and attentive. The coach moved around the room, monitored technique and provided hands-on corrections where needed. Encouragement was steady and transitions were clear. The cooldown was structured and well led, though the music remained upbeat. Personalisation was limited and there was no strong community-building moment, though overall delivery was technically strong.

The Equipment And Studio

The equipment and studio setup were impressive. Balanced Body reformers were in excellent condition, clean and well maintained. Equipment was fully stocked and spaced appropriately, supporting smooth transitions and varied ability levels.

The environment stood out visually. Neon lighting, reflective chrome windows and bold artwork created a distinctive look. Temperature and lighting were well managed and the sound system supported the high-energy atmosphere. Equipment branding was minimal, though the overall space had a clear identity.

The Facilities And Public Areas

The exterior created strong visibility with reflective windows and bright neon signage. Inside, branding was consistent through artwork and lighting features. The waiting area was spacious, comfortable and maintained at a suitable temperature, with clear safety signage.

Changing areas were clean and lockers were in excellent condition with secure locking options. Complimentary water and hot tea were available. Amenities were limited, with no hairdryers and no showers on site. The changing space, located within the reception area, would be tight during busy periods.

Digital And Technology

Booking through the website or app was straightforward and reliable. Confirmation emails were immediate and cancellation terms, including the nine-hour window, were clearly outlined. Arrival instructions were communicated clearly.

The website aligned with the brand’s energetic aesthetic and was easy to navigate. Class descriptions, schedules and directions were clear, with strong calls to action. Automated emails were on brand. Coach bios lacked detail and newsletter sign-up did not trigger follow-up communication. Social media was active and reflected the in-studio vibe accurately.

Pricing

Love Athletica Hawthorn East offers an introductory deal for first-time clients. Newcomers can pay $99 and enjoy 10 classes.

If you’re looking for a longer-term commitment, memberships are available from $190 for 8 classes per month up to $290 for 16 classes.

Drop-in sessions are available at $33 per class, with smaller commitment packages also available, starting at a 3-pack for $69.

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