Jaclyn Forrester, a fitness industry veteran, is expanding her offerings with the opening of Niche Strength Studio, a strength training fitness space adjacent to her existing Pilates studio in Richmond. This move is a natural progression for Forrester, who has been in the fitness industry since 2007 and has a strong background in exercise science. With a bachelor's degree in exercise science from Radford University, she has worked as a yoga instructor, Pilates instructor, and personal trainer.
Forrester's journey began with Niche Pilates, which she opened in 2017 in a small downtown space. Over the years, she expanded to a larger location and then to her current 3,500-square-foot space on Main Street in 2024. The Pilates studio offers a variety of classes, including mat Pilates, reformer machine Pilates, and tower Pilates, as well as instructor training and private sessions.
The decision to open a strength training studio was driven by Forrester's own interest in strength training and her desire to offer a more comprehensive fitness experience. The new studio, Niche Strength Studio, will provide a dedicated space for weightlifting, cardio, and strength training, catering to those who prefer a more intimate setting compared to traditional gyms.
One of the key features of Niche Strength Studio is its focus on community and personalized attention. Forrester emphasizes the importance of a polished and clean environment, with lavender towels and a sense of community that she believes sets her studio apart. She aims to provide a more elevated experience, combining the benefits of a small studio with the effectiveness of strength training.
The new studio will offer cable machines, TRX bands, cardio equipment, and benches and dumbbells. It will provide group classes and personal training sessions, as well as a unique package where clients can come in and work out independently using Niche's workout videos or their own routines. This flexibility is designed to cater to a wide range of fitness enthusiasts.
Pricing for strength training classes is similar to that of Pilates classes, with group classes starting at $22 for one person and $42 for two, and private sessions at $100 per class. Membership options range from $80 to $336 monthly, depending on the number of classes selected. The studio operates on a credit system, allowing clients to manage their fitness journey effectively.
Forrester's vision for Niche Strength Studio is to provide a space that complements the existing Pilates studio, offering a seamless fitness experience. She believes that by combining the two studios, she can cater to a broader range of fitness goals and preferences, creating a comprehensive fitness hub in the heart of Richmond.
As Niche Strength Studio prepares to open its doors this summer, Forrester is excited about the future. She plans to bring in strength training-specific instructors to teach in the adjacent space, further enhancing the expertise and offerings of the studio. With her passion for fitness and commitment to providing an exceptional experience, Forrester is poised to make a significant impact on the fitness landscape in Richmond.
