Studios Redefining Health, Wellness, and Community
By Ashli Urano
As New Year’s resolutions inspire exercise goals, Frisco's boutique fitness scene is redefining the traditional gym experience. Gone are the days of simply hitting the weight room or jumping on a treadmill. From infrared heat classes to private training suites, each venue brings its own unique approach to fitness. Here's your guide to five boutique studios reimagining the way Frisco stays in shape.
Session Pilates
Founded by Brittany Grignon, Session Pilates offers a modern twist on classical Pilates. The full mind and body experience is designed to get everyone connected to movement. The studio has established an intense, music-driven style to reformer Pilates that has gained national attention.
Unlike traditional Pilates classes, Session Pilates’ 50-minute workouts incorporate rhythmic movements on Allegro 2 reformers, focusing on quick transitions while maintaining the core principles of Pilates' lengthening and strengthening exercises. "Our style takes a more high-energy, athletic approach to classical Pilates," Grignon explained. "We move to the beat of the music, but we tell you when, where, and how to move."
To help new members feel comfortable, the front desk team walks them through everything they need to know. The instructor then spends time explaining the reformer equipment and also discusses injuries or conditions they might have. Throughout class, instructors always offer different options and variations of movements, techniques, and resistance so everyone is able to best optimize their workout, regardless of their fitness level.
The studio maintains variety through its instructors, who complete an intensive four-week training program followed by months of practice before leading classes. Grignon proudly said, "All of our instructors format their own classes and playlists, which means you're going to get a different full-body workout every time you take class.”
Session Pilates, which opened its Frisco location in September, has already earned recognition from ClassPass as a "Best Fitness Studio" in America and received PaperCity Dallas Design Awards' "Best Retail Design" honor in 2024. The studio's success has led to five locations across Dallas, Plano, and Frisco, with two more scheduled to open later this year.
The studio's growth is supported by a team of more than 80 staff members, including 40-plus instructors and front desk personnel, along with four full-time directors. Grignon credits much of the studio's success to this team. "I always say that I have a crazy, innate ability to surround myself with really good, hard-working, genuinely down-to-earth people. That is the reason Session has gotten to where it is today."
In addition to the workout itself, Session Pilates has focused on building community partnerships, working with local organizations, including Frisco ISD PTAs, Frisco Chamber of Commerce, and Frisco Women's League.
The studio's primary mission extends beyond physical fitness. "Our biggest goal for anyone who comes into our studios is to give them the space to leave their to-do list at the door," Grignon said. "We aim to help everyone treat themselves to 50 minutes away from everything that is going on in their outside world."
For more information on Session Pilates, visit sessionpilates.com.
H2K Fitness
H2K Fitness offers a combination of strength training, Pilates reformer classes, and infrared heat training. "We are unique in the fact that not only do we offer these three modalities under one roof, but there are also six class formats to choose from,” said co-owner Mary Peters.
The studio accommodates all fitness levels through specialized formats, including Lift for strength training, Tone for low-impact mat Pilates with strength endurance, and various reformer classes. "Whether you are new to working out or have been at it for years, we will meet you where you are,” Peters explained. “Our instructors are trained to give advancements and modifications throughout the class, so you can make the class your own."
The combination of these three modalities serves a specific purpose. "If you are strength training, it is important to incorporate Pilates reformer to target smaller muscles which support our larger muscles that we often overuse," she said. "If your main goal is to improve core strength, increase flexibility, and build overall muscle endurance, then your focus is Pilates reformer with strength training to complement."
H2K’s use of infrared heat sets it apart from traditional workout areas. Unlike conventional heating systems, infrared technology heats objects rather than the air, maintaining a 95-degree workout environment. "It helps the body's natural processes kick in to eliminate waste and buildup of lactic acid and environmental toxins," Peters explained. "Put simply, it helps you burn more calories than working out in regular conditions."
The benefits at H2K go beyond physical appearance. "Not only do our clients feel stronger by utilizing the different classes we offer, but fitness is more than just what you look like," Peters said. "A good fitness program should make you feel happier. It should make your mind stronger and help you build a well-balanced lifestyle."
The studio works extremely hard to ensure members feel supported and motivated. "We have created a community that feels like a family," Peters shared. "I love getting to know our clients. It is also amazing to see clients get more confidence in themselves as they come to more and more classes and see the positive results from their workouts."
Peters recalled a meaningful text from a client that read, "I am so glad I joined. I'm proud I've stuck with it and not given up on myself." These moments are what drive the H2K team to continue pushing boundaries and helping members become stronger versions of themselves.
For those hesitant to start their fitness journey, Peters offers encouraging advice. "The first step is getting in the door. That is the hardest part - making the commitment to yourself. We are there to help you with the rest."
For more information on H2K Fitness, visit h2kfitness.com.
Row House
When you step into Row House, you'll notice something different from typical gyms. The dimmed lights, energizing music, and synchronized rowing create an atmosphere that's both motivating and comfortable.
"We're not an intimidating gym," explained owner Sara Dillingham. "For people who haven't always been 'workout people,' walking into a new fitness space can be really scary - we get that. That's why we work so hard to make sure everyone feels welcome from the second they walk through the door."
The studio offers five types of classes, each designed for different fitness levels. The Signature class combines rowing with floor-based strength training, while Full Row focuses entirely on building endurance through rowing. For those seeking to build muscle, the Strength class emphasizes slower, controlled movements with less time on the rower. Restore classes offer active recovery through mobility work and light rowing, while Intervals challenge members with high-intensity rowing and full-body floor exercises with quick transitions to maximize the anaerobic threshold.
Row House and its instructors utilize Concept2 rowing machines, considered the gold standard, to track members' progress and help them achieve their fitness goals. "Our coaches use this information to guide members throughout class," Dillingham said. "Whether that's helping someone with their form, giving encouragement, or just being a friendly face, they make everyone feel supported."
Beyond fitness, Row House maintains strong community connections through its "Row for a Cause" program. The studio has hosted many events, including team-building workouts for Frisco ISD teachers, fundraisers for members battling serious illnesses, along with support for local animal rescues and mental health organizations.
“What makes these events so special is that they don’t just benefit the community - they also bring our members closer together,” Dillingham explained. “They add a fresh energy to the studio and keep things exciting when workouts can sometimes feel routine. There’s just something about rowing for a bigger purpose that lifts everyone up and reminds us why we’re here.”
Row House West Frisco is breaking new ground as the only location in the country to pilot a small group strength program. Starting this month, the program will bring together six to eight people for comprehensive personal training sessions led by expert coaches. This year, Row House will also be adding a Ruck Club and Steele Mace workshops.
At the heart of the studio are incredibly dedicated coaches. "What keeps people coming back to Row House is the whole experience," Dillingham said. "Our amazing coaches aren't just there to lead a workout - they really care about each person's success." Row House’s coaches are highly trained with strength certifications and specialized education through Row House University.
At Row House, they believe fitness is a personal journey. Rather than pushing everyone to compete, they are encouraged to focus on their own growth. Members adjust their workouts to match their comfort level and goals. Dillingham said, "People cheer each other on in class and celebrate wins outside the studio, too. It's not just a workout - it's a place where people feel stronger and more connected."
For more information on Row House West Frisco, visit therowhouse.com/location/west-frisco.
Vybe 5
Vybe 5 combines infrared heat therapy with a fitness program designed to transform both body and mind, as well as each member’s well-being. The studio's signature 50-minute sessions include five modalities, creating a balanced workout experience for each fitness level. Each class is carefully structured, beginning with a warm-up where members set personal goals for the session.
The studio’s infrared technology helps reduce inflammation in joints and muscles while improving overall circulation throughout the body. This makes it particularly beneficial for members who are dealing with chronic pain. Of the infrared benefits, longtime Vybe5 member Angela Holt shares, “I love how it makes me feel to where I can function every day. I have rheumatoid arthritis, and there are some days that my joints hurt, and the heat from the infrared heat really helps me feel better.” The heat also stimulates natural collagen production, which can help improve skincare.
The core of the Vybe 5 workout consists of three repeated rounds combining power flow, strength training, and cardio segments. The power flow emphasizes flexibility and balance with a focus on mental clarity. Members perform choreographed movements that improve their posture and coordination while helping with any anxiety.
During the strength portion of the workout, members use a combination of bodyweight and hand-weight exercises, as well as using resistance bands. This training builds both upper and lower body strength while supporting bone health and metabolic function. The cardio portion features four movements that improve cardiovascular health and stamina while burning fat.
“The instructors are all amazing, and the room is kind of darker, so you just really feel like you're in your own zone on your mat. What sets them [Vybe5] apart is that it's never boring. The flow is different each week for the yoga part, and then you do strength and cardio, but you're doing three sets of that, so you're constantly changing,” Angela adds.
Following the main workout, sessions transition to targeted core work focusing on the lower back, abdomen, hips, and pelvis. This training supports overall stability and helps prevent injuries. The workout ends with flexibility work to help with recovery and improve circulation.
The most unique aspect is the studio's mindful cool down towards the end of the workout, where members are given lavender-infused towels as they relax and quietly reflect. This provides a moment of peace and is also a way to decompress after exercising. By combining physical conditioning with the mind, Vybe 5 addresses the complete wellness journey.
Ashli Urano is a freelance writer obsessed with competitive tennis, true crime, and her Golden-doodle named Sadie Kirenia.
