Why I’m pressing reset on my workout routine

My name is Martha, and I’m pressing reset on my exercise regimen—and I encourage you to do the same. It’s taken me longer than I’d like to admit to realise that what worked for me in my twenties no longer serves the body or mind I have today. I used to chase the high of HIIT classes and cardio-centric workouts that left me exhausted and injury-prone. I was always the friend with knots in my back, a tense jaw, and in a constant state of fight or flight.

Recently, my FYP and conversations with friends led me down a rabbit hole of cortisol spikes and hormone balance. I soon realised my workout routine was contributing to unnecessary stress and holding me back from the results I worked so hard to achieve. It became clear that change was needed—not just physically, but mentally too.

With a busy job and active social life, I wanted a one-stop destination that offered a balance of movement and mindfulness—a place I’d look forward to showing up for. SALA ticked every box with applaudable ease. My only frustration? Not finding it sooner. Rather than following the traditional gym model, SALA sees itself as a movement—or more fondly, a second home built on collective energy and community spirit. Inside its aesthetic Ponsonby space, 18 multidisciplinary classes invite members to move, unwind, and reconnect.

A major draw for me was SALA’s Reformer Pilates. I’d heard rave reviews and needed to see if it lived up to the hype. Spoiler: it does. There are two class formats—Flow and Power. While both follow the classic reformer framework, Power ups the ante with heavier weights and greater resistance. I often book Reformer Flow with Brooklyne when I want to focus on form, balance, and flexibility—she’s attentive, accommodating of injuries, and always encouraging. When I’m in the mood to push myself, it’s Reformer Power with Otto. His classes test both physical and mental strength, with precision-driven guidance and a seriously satisfying burn. I’ve also fallen for Barre with Jane, a class I didn’t expect to love as much as I do. Inspired by ballet technique—think lengthening, holding, and turning—it builds strength, flexibility, and endurance. Low impact? Yes. Easy? Absolutely not. It’s one of the sweatiest sessions at SALA (short of the sauna). When my body signals that it needs to relax and reset, all signs point to Yin Yoga with Monica. This class offers 60 minutes of uniterrupted 'me time'—a session that allows me to work on relaxing stored-up fascia through held, passive postures.  

The beauty of SALA lies in its versatility—there’s truly a class for every mood, phase, and physical need. My body will continue to evolve, but now I understand the importance of adapting, listening, and honouring what it needs to thrive. And for me, that starts with SALA.

*some images shown by Seb Charles

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