Independent workout studios have taken hold worldwide. According to the MMR, the pilates and yoga studios global market was at 240.38 billion USD in 2025, with rapid predicted growth. These studios stand out with a mix of personalized service and a focus on the body and the mind.
Gym alternatives attract a diverse age range, spanning from teens to seniors. Carlsbad sophomore Kelsey Joyce works the front desk at Pure Barre, a fitness company with a style inspired by yoga, ballet and pilates.
“Barre is low impact and high intensity, so its technique benefits members of all fitness levels and ages,” Joyce said. “We have a great community here: people will come with an injury and stay as they strengthen their entire body.”
As of 2026, there are over 100 boutique-style workout studios in Carlsbad, CA. Shandra Knight, a co-owner of Fit Hive Carlsbad, started out with her partners to create a supportive and welcoming fitness center.
“We offer small group classes with no more than 10 people per class, which allows for more personal attention, guidance and support,” Knight said. “We also offer a wide variety of workouts to meet all fitness needs, including strength training and mobility classes.”
Health and fitness are often treated as a uniform plan: what works for one will work for another.
But, whereas many gyms are tailored to strengthening the body, Pure Barre focuses on the mental aspect as well, encouraging focus, concentration and mindfulness.
“I feel like working at Pure Barre has changed my approach to health because before it seemed like something that was just thrown at me,” Joyce said. “But now I see that health comes in many different ways and my experience has made me more open to different meanings of health.”
Balancing an open philosophy with personal health in addition to the harsh realities of business competition remains a central focus for Knight. Knight says that the biggest challenge Fit Hive faces is competition from large gyms.
“One challenge we have is helping people understand the value of boutique fitness,” Knight said. “Smaller studios offer more connections, but sometimes people compare us only by price instead of what they receive.”
For many people, fitness is a huge investment: gym memberships, equipment and healthy food all cost money. But, Joyce believes that a slightly higher cost for a membership at a workout studio is worth it for the personalized experience.
“I understand that the financial part can seem expensive, but it really just depends on how much you take advantage of it by taking classes often,” Joyce said. “You’re getting fitness experience with instructors who give hands on corrections and advice that you can’t get at the gym.”
The one-on-one connections made in the welcoming, supportive atmosphere of workout studios are unparalleled. Joyce encourages everyone to give barre a chance and shares her advice for potential members.
“I would say just come and try a class,” Joyce said. “Everyone starts somewhere but consistency is going to make you see and feel the change and you’ll make great friends along the way.”
