Getting to Know: Rima Alijew of Trunk Studios

When Rima Alijew couldn’t find the kind of pilates studio she was looking for, she set one up herself. A few years on and the former corporate lawyer has recently opened the doors to her second inner west studio, in Camperdown. Find out about her approach to health and fitness, and why providing a relaxed, inclusive environment is key to her business.

Tell us a little bit about yourself?

My name is Rima and I am the owner of Trunk Studios in the inner west. I am truly passionate about anything related to health and fitness. But minus all the expectations that come with it.

What path led to opening your own studio?

I used to move around a lot for my previous job as a corporate lawyer and always found friends through the gym. However, I couldn’t make the same connections when I moved to Sydney and attended pilates studios here. I found it to be a little elitist – I am pretty much a slop when I exercise. Mum bun, never matching socks, t-shirt inside out. I wanted to create a space where it didn’t matter, that was truly inclusive and community focused. We opened the Dulwich Hill Studio in January 2018.

What kind of approach and support can people expect when they step into one of your studios?

We are very community focused and our classes are very small. This allows our instructors to really get to know our clients. And gives members an opportunity to engage with each other. We regularly check in with our clients, especially at the start to make sure they have a good experience in and outside of class.

You’ve recently opened a reformer pilates studio in Camperdown. What are the benefits of this kind of exercise?

Reformer pilates is amazing. You can expect to strengthen your body but you can also use it if you are recovering from recent injuries. Reformer pilates helps with flexibility and balance and can even assist in improving your posture.

Is reformer pilates suitable for beginners, as well as people returning to exercise after a break?

Absolutely! Reformer pilates is for everyone. The springs on the reformer machines allow us to cater for all fitness and experience levels. It is even amazing for pre- and post-natal clients. You can do it at your own pace and our instructors will always offer modifications and adjustments to suit everyone.

Favourite place/s in the inner west?

I really like the Sri Lanken place called The Fold in Dulwich Hill, Hancock Lane in Rozelle, and dinner and drinks at the Cottage Balmain.

Trunk Studios is located at Shop 2, 19 Church Street, Camperdown and at 403 and 404 New Canterbury Road, Dulwich Hill. For details: www.trunkstudios.com.au