Three local businesses have recently undergone a change in ownership, bringing renewed energy to Airdrie’s fitness industry.
The industry has made strides in its recovery since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, says Jessica Williamson, economic development officer with the City of Airdrie.
Statistics show small-and medium-sized operations actually fare better than larger fitness businesses in Airdrie, according to Williamson. She says employment and weekly earnings have steadily increased since 2020, and there are currently 13 fitness and recreational sports centres in Airdrie.
Marissa Martin took over ownership of LivvWell in July 2024 and says she has enjoyed being part of the local business community. The wellness hub offers a variety of group fitness classes, including yoga, boot camp, barre, cycle and Pilates.
“Being an integral part of the community is very important to me, and providing a safe space for everyone. No matter where you are at, we will meet you there and encourage your growth journey,” says Martin. “You can push yourself in a tough fitness class, then slow it down and stretch it out in a heated yoga class. We bring a longevity to our guests’ fitness journeys.”
Robyn Lepine started teaching classes at Oxygen Yoga & Fitness in March 2023 and took over ownership one year later. The studio offers group fitness and yoga classes, such as deep stretch, Hatha yoga, flow yoga, strength, cardio, barre and Pilates, she says.
“Our goals are to continue to offer a welcoming and inclusive environment for our community to come together in their wellness journey,” says Lepine. “My favourite part of being in the studio is following along with members’ health journeys and hearing about the progress they are making. From sleeping better, to getting stronger, to feeling less pain — we regularly get to hear about the positive benefits members are experiencing.”
Classes at Oxygen Yoga & Fitness are taught in infrared heat, which benefits the body in many ways, including detoxification, decrease in inflammation and skin-purification, she says. The studio is also darkened for classes.
“Along with the numerous health benefits, we feel that it really enhances the Zen atmosphere that we try to cultivate for our members,” Lepine says. “We encourage everyone to take class at their own pace and have found that our dim studio atmosphere gives our members the opportunity to push themselves and focus on their practice. Having a darker room takes away the pressure of comparison to others.”
Kirsten Burns took over ownership of Tri Fit Training in October 2024, after managing the facility for five years. The performance facility works with professional athletes, as well as those new to the gym. It offers personal training, sports-performance training, drop-in gym use, massage therapy and nutrition services.
“As people age, we want them to be able to continue to do what they love and not have their physical health be a hindrance,” says Burns. “We strongly believe that injury prevention and mental health are just as important parts of training as agility, speed and strength.
“Kids, and especially youth athletes, are under an overwhelming pressure to perform in all aspects of life. Our facility encourages the growth of these athletes but also supports their other needs as kids.”
One of the new owner’s long-term goals is to create a program for female athletes.
“Being a female owner in a mostly male-dominated industry, I am so excited to have the opportunity to influence young women in our community,” says Burns. “This programming will be aimed at supporting, encouraging and educating these young women about how to succeed as elite athletes, while still finding identity beyond sport.”
