While there's an undeniable thrill to an “all-out” action of an Orange Theory Fitness class or the muscle-burning intensity of Barry's Bootcamp, sometimes you might crave something a little more...local. Something that resonates with the unique vibe of your city. Richmond is teeming with boutique fitness studios that bring both expertise and hometown pride to their sweat-drenched programs. These homegrown spots offer a more personalized experience than the big fitness franchises can provide. From scientific programming to creative class concepts, the boutique studios of RVA are worth checking out for anyone looking to switch up their workout routine.
Square Code takes a science-based approach to "squaring the curve" of aging through targeted energy system training. Their classes systematically work all the body's energy pathways - from explosive ATP-CP efforts to aerobic endurance training. The programming focuses on precisely manipulating exercise intensity, duration, volume, and recovery to optimize each session for a specific energy system adaptation.
Classes like OG HIIT™ hammer the ATP-CP system with brutal short bursts, while The Grind™ tests your anaerobic threshold through alternating cardio and strength circuits. You'll find low-intensity recovery work in Revive™. And in Total™, they'll assess your personal "base:code" - a benchmark of your maximal aerobic capacity across the rower, ski erg, and bike. With creative class names and formats that change daily, monotony is never an issue. Square Code brings the latest exercise science to a motivating group environment.
1315 E. Main St | squarecodefitness.com
BOHO Studios offers a diverse array of beat-driven cycling rides and circuit-style fitness classes across their trendy Richmond locations. The cycling classes range from rhythm rides set to curated playlists to endurance challenges testing your limits. On the Fit Studio side, you'll find circuit formats like Lift for weight training, the high-intensity Tone combining mobility work with cardio and strength, and low-impact options like Pilates + Weights focused on core and balance. BOHO also provides one-on-one personal training for a fully customized experience. No matter your fitness level, BOHO's caring instructors and fun vibes make breaking a sweat a joy.
4930 Forest Hill Ave, Suite B | bohostudios.com
City Barre brings the burn with an upbeat, full-body barre workout targeting arms, legs, glutes and core. Expect great tunes, a fast pace and fresh formats daily that combine isometric movements with light weight training to fatigue your muscles. The highly-trained instructors provide personal attention to ensure proper form in the gorgeous studio space. Even better, City Barre hosts monthly community events from book clubs to holiday celebrations so you can bond with your "barre babes." Owner Gretchen Solarz is so passionate that she teamed up with Nike to provide tips for first-timers. With a welcoming crew and focus on fun, you'll soon get hooked on this low-impact but mighty workout.
1404 Belleville St | city-barre.com
Hot Yoga Richmond has been bringing the heat with their signature hot yoga and Pilates classes since 2002. As the only Richmond studio offering 90-minute authentic Bikram yoga classes, you know you're in expert hands with their certified, veteran instructors. They also offer Inferno Hot Pilates featuring muscle-burning, Pilates-inspired sequences in a heated room. Whether you're a longtime yogi or just starting your practice, the team at HYR provides a supportive space to build strength, release stress and unlock your body's full potential. Their transformational stories are proof of the power of consistent, mindful movement.
3024 Stony Point Rd | hotyogarichmond.com
At Niche Pilates Studio, your form is the top priority. Owner Jaclyn's background in Exercise Science and over 11,000 hours of teaching experience inform the meticulous, research-backed curriculum. In group Reformer classes like Flow, Power Flow and Alignment + Core, careful instruction and variations ensure each student moves safely and effectively based on their ability level. You'll use the Reformer and array of Pilates apparatus to build core stability, flexibility and body awareness. Niche also offers comprehensive instructor training rooted in both the fundamentals and latest science of Pilates. Whether taking a class or training to become a teacher, you're in highly qualified hands.
1435 W. Main St | nichefitstudio.com
Get ready to flow and burn at 3S Yoga. This modern studio combines the ancient traditions of yoga with athletic, high-intensity interval training. In the signature 3S class created by founder Nadeya Ward, you'll move fluidly through yoga sequences interspersed with metabolism-revving HIIT intervals - getting your body and mind firing on all cylinders. More traditional vinyasa-style classes focus on connecting breath to movement for a dynamic, full-body yoga flow experience. No matter which class you take, you'll find a challenging yet accessible practice in 3S's inclusive, community-centered space. Let this studio reignite your passion for yoga's physical, mental and spiritual benefits.
2400-B. Jefferson Ave | 3syoga.com
