The best of fitness in Johannesburg: discover all the highlights in Johannesburg

The Best Pilates Studio with the Most Amazing Instructors!

Nova Pilates Studio is truly a gem! The space is beautiful, well-equipped, and has such a welcoming atmosphere that makes every visit enjoyable. But what really makes this studio special is the incredible team of instructors—especially Sunny, who is not only an amazing teacher but also the heart and soul of the studio.

Sunny’s expertise, encouragement, and personalized approach make every session both challenging and rewarding. She has an incredible ability to fine-tune movements, ensuring you get the most out of your workout while keeping things engaging and fun. Whether you’re new to Pilates or an experienced practitioner, she makes sure you feel supported and motivated every step of the way.

If you’re looking for a Pilates studio where you’ll feel stronger, more flexible, and truly cared for, Nova Pilates Studio is the place to be. I can’t recommend it enough!

I’ve only been coming here for a few sessions but I’m already loving it! The women here are so kind and Sunny, the instructor is incredibly accommodating and encouraging. The studio is spotless especially the bathrooms and the overall atmosphere is welcoming and uplifting. Looking forward to many more sessions!

Nova Pilates was a fantastic introduction to reformer Pilates! As a beginner, I really enjoyed my classes there—the instructors are incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and supportive. They made me feel comfortable and helped me build confidence with each session. The studio has a great atmosphere, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to start or continue their Pilates journey!

My daughter and I had an amazing private Pilates class at NOVA Pilates with Sunny. She was incredibly professional, kind, and attentive, making sure we felt comfortable throughout the session. We did a full-body routine that was both fun and challenging, and I left feeling refreshed and energised. The studio has a great atmosphere, and I truly enjoyed every moment of the class. I highly recommend NOVA Pilates to anyone looking for a fantastic workout experience

Absolutely loving my experience at Nova Pilates. The space is beautiful, the energy is always positive, and the instructors are all so knowledgeable and encouraging. I’ve already noticed a difference in my strength and posture, and I actually look forward to every session. So grateful I found this gem

Attended kravmaga with Fabian before and now trying out Muay Thai. Absolutely love the MMA Academy. Fabian is consistent and nothing shy of dedicated and passionate about what he does. That is evident in his training.

Clean environment to practice in. Great fellow students to add to the stunning environment.

Won’t go anywhere else truly!

I’ve been here for a short time but I can already compliment the professionalism and atmosphere, I would definitely recommend if you want to get started

We have been so happy with our experience with Warriors MMA Academy. The time and attention paid to each student is invaluable, and the boost in confidence in my son is noticeable. Fabian and his team are incredibly focused, and patient with the kids, and we look forward to the classes every week.

Top class experience! The coaches are amazing. The kids love it and they ask all the time when can go fight again.

Thanks guys.

A very good martial arts school.
Review by a 50 + year old man with experience of 3 different martial arts schools in his 20’s and 30’s. Training for about 2 months at “Warriors MMA Academy”. I do not like to go public, but I am making an exception. I was looking for a good Martial arts school for my son (15) and I. After practising at different schools (for testing we did 4 classes at each school) my son selected “Warriors MMA Academy”. We are doing the “Jiu-jitsu” class.

MMA in “Warriors MMA Academy” Does not stand for cage fighting. “MMA” stands for Mixed Martial Arts, although MMA is a full-on sport where you can compete in actual fights. This school is a safe place where you can learn Mixed Martial Arts to suit you needs. (Self-confidence, self-defence, competition, fitness, weight loss etc. You pick)

Price might be high on your list so I will cover it, for Jiu-jitsu(Takedowns and on the ground fighting) you get 5 classes a week for less than most Martial Arts schools ask for only 2 classes a week. For the Muay Thai(Fighting standing kicking and punching) and kick boxing courses there are 4 classes a week each. Do only one discipline like us or do all. They also teach Krav Maga if you interested. The teaching is done with an integration approach thus the Mixed in MMA.

But let me tell you why I recommend them, and my son picked this school.
1) The ratio of men and woman practicing together is almost the same. I have never seen this, it tells its own story of the environment this school create.

2) If you have a boy that need to learn how to treat woman (Maybe need more good mail influence) you want to send him to this school. He will practice with real/good men and boys, they train with each other and with woman in the same class. This is how boys become good men they learn from the older good men how it is done. In my point one above, I made an observation regarding the ratio of woman and men. This tell me the woman are feeling safe to train here and that the men must be treating the woman well and with respect. I find this exceptional because we are not talking easy going interaction, we are talking simulated fighting situation where both try to learn to defend themselves and injury is possible. For me it says all I need to know about the schools culture and leadership and make me grateful I am staying close and found them.

3) Special care is taken with the ladies with a special additional class on the weekend for girls only (Boys do not get this special treatment).

4) As a lady if you do not want to train with/against a boy (If I say train I mean practising techniques against a partner and vice versa) then rest assured in the normal class you pick your partner and there are plenty girls. What I said in point 2 some girls do practice with boys on occasion which create the opportunity for younger boys to see and experience how good men conduct themselves

5) If you have youngsters, they have a special class called “bullyproof for kids”. They are just before our class, and I like to watch how the kids enjoy themselves. With three coaches that loves and know how to work with kids it is no wander.

6) We practice self-defence techniques on various levels, you as the attacker and you as the defender. Part of practice is going through the movements with a partner to build mussel memory. Next, we will do 40% resisting your partner to improve understanding of the technique. Then in the same class some time is spent at 80% effort whilst using your techniques to get in a better fighting position against a partner. This level of real-life preparation to defend yourself was absent from my previous schools. If you want to go 100% then you will do that kind of preparation at the school and go for competition, if it is not for you (Like me) then that is also good.

7) I got injured two days ago now looking at students two-two in pares practicing their techniques, every time they break the engagement one or both are smiling. (I read on their faces, I did it or I understand it better)

I’ve been with Kylie and her team for three months now and I’m honestly so happy at the Pilates Guru studio. The team are so efficient, professional, well trained and prepared for people with all kinds of fitness levels and needs. The team has taught me that my mind and body are capable of anything if I put my mind to it. The studio is always clean with changing rooms, toilets, cleaning detergents for the equipment. There are also many different types of training equipment provided for the classes that they offer. My favourite classes are Pilates mat intermediate/mixed levels and athletic reformer. Very great spot to destress with a low impact but intentional practice ✨✨✨

Pilates Guru is truly something special. I started at the beginning of this year, and it has quickly become a place I look forward to every week. Kylie genuinely cares about each individual – her attention and warmth make every session feel personal and supportive. It’s not just about physical fitness here; it’s a space where your mind and soul get a boost too. I always leave feeling energised, stronger, and more balanced.

I do Pilates Mat, which I love, but the studio also offers barre and reformer classes, which I’ve heard are just as incredible. If you’re looking for a studio that focuses on holistic well-being and makes you feel empowered from the inside out, I can’t recommend Pilates Guru enough

I recently attended a Pilates class at Pilates Guru Studio, and it was an amazing experience! From the moment I walked in, I was impressed by the clean, welcoming atmosphere. The instructor, Kylie was incredibly knowledgeable and made sure to explain each movement clearly, offering modifications to accommodate different fitness levels.By the end of the session, I felt both energised and relaxed. Whether you’re a beginner or have prior experience, I would highly recommend this class for anyone looking to improve their overall strength and flexibility!

I’ve been absolutely loving Reformer Pilates at Pilates Guru. The classes are so much fun and such a good form of exercise. The instructors are the best and would 100% recommend. The studio is also so stunning. I don’t see myself leaving as a member 🙂

Love the classes and the people. I have lost 6kg in just over a month and never felt stronger. Kylie and her team are awesome! The athletic reformer as a man is challenging and I would do a class every day if I could.

F45 has been an absolute game changer and genuinely changed my lifestyle. Never did I think that I’d be this motivated and consistent – but 5 am daily classes are part of a daily routine now ! Thanks to the incredible team at Rosebank and the great workouts – challenging, always mixing it up and pushing you to achieve things you didn’t think you were capable of. 10/10 recommend !

I’ve been a member of F45 Training Rosebank for a few months, and it has been a fantastic experience! The trainers are incredibly motivating, knowledgeable, and ready to help you safely push your limits. The facilities are top-notch, clean, and equipped with the latest fitness gear, creating the perfect environment for a great workout. I highly recommend F45 Training Rosebank to anyone looking to get fit and have fun while doing it!

F45 Rosebank, the staff are not only welcoming but also super knowledgeable, making the whole experience way less intimidating. For anyone juggling a packed schedule, especially if you’re working long hours, I can’t recommend it enough. Classes are run timely and on schedule as well as making the most out the time spent there.

The staff at F45 Rosebank are absolutely wonderful, so friendly and helpful in their guidance. I would recommend F45 for anyone, but particularly working professionals who don’t have a lot of time. Since starting work for last 3 years I haven’t been able to get into a routine whatsoever to get exercise, but F45 makes it easy and I’ve finally found a workout that I actually want to go to!

F45 is hands down the best fitness experience I’ve ever had. The facilities are top-notch, clean and well maintained, providing everything you need for a productive workout. The trainers are incredibly knowledgeable and supportive, always pushing you to achieve your best while ensuring proper form and technique. The variety in workouts keeps every session exciting and challenging. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned athlete, you will find the right level of intensity and encouragement here!

This was the best training experience I’ve had. I trained MMA with Brendon and Matt for three weeks and in that time I’ve learned more about fighting than years training elsewhere. My only regret is not finding this place sooner and not being able to stay longer to train. Would recommend coming here if you’re serious about learning how to fight.

The best fighting gym in SA hands-down. I started Muay Thai with no previous training and my experience has been amazing. Coach Sherazaad knows what he’s teaching inside-out and is super professional and pleasant to work with. If you’re looking to start a martial art, stop faffing and sign up with this gym today. You will change your life, no exaggerations.

I thank FSC – Brendon & my amazing trainer Axel for all the progress I’ve made in the past 8 months. I’ve had so many ‘wins’ in every aspect from dietary changes to mental health and physical fitness due to the absolute support that I’ve been receiving. With every training session I feel a little bit stronger, happier and closer to my goals. Looking forward to the rest of my journey with FSC.

Been training with coach Dan for the past 6 months. Great sessions with awesome colleagues. Brilliant trainer. Seen a lot of progress in strength and fitness and overall mindset. 100% recommend

Amazing gym conveniently located. Gain wisdom from truly talented veteran warriors like Frans while transforming your body!

I used to go to this amazing little yoga studio in a small town near Seattle, WA. Both the teacher and the community were such incredible finds. Free Spirit Wellness reminds me so much of that place! The studio is in a beautiful location, always has a lovely vibe and Sophia’s classes are fun, warm, challenging and engaging. I feel like I’ve found another little gem and I’m so grateful! Highly recommend.

Sophia is a gifted and ethical teacher and facilitator. She has the ability to leave us feeling safe and strong in our bodies. Free Spirit Wellness Studio has a climate of compassion, joy and devotion to the practice. The classes are diverse and tailor to different needs. All the skilled teachers in the studio are dedicated and their passion spills over to the yogi students!

Sophia is an amazing teacher! It’s hard to find a yoga instructor that one can connect with, but Sophia has an incredible energy. Her classes are always interesting and varied, and both physically and spritually fulfilling. The yoga tribe of people at Free Spirit Wellness are an incredible group and the retreats are great fun.

If you’re looking for a yoga school that offers both professional guidance and a supportive community- FSW is the place. All instructors are highly knowledgeable, very compassionate and professional. Each class is thoughtfully designed, whether you’re a beginner or an advanced practitioner. Well done to Sophia and the team!

Being on our Restore in Nature Yoga Retreat with Sophia & Julia in Plettenberg was incredible and by far the best retreat to date!!! I left feeling lighter joyful and revitalised in body mind and spirit. I learnt that I can live my best life and I deserve to without guilt and to continue becoming a better version of myself and face whatever challenge is set before me …. Sophia &Julia silently collaborated this experience behind the scenes with love and passion. The variety of excursions i.e. hikes / dance ceremony / yoga practice and dining was moments of just pure joy as a result of their dedication to us in fulfilling this time with our tribe. This allowed each one of us to be transparent, be supportive and let our masks go and just BE !! I cannot wait to experience another retreat of this stature in the very near Future. We are blessed to have taken this journey with you Sophia you are one in a million !!!

Lovely gym with fantastic staff,but the building it is situated in, makes this place a horrible place to go for me 5 days a week! It is high up in the building (no stairs) but with only one lift working 95% of the time which takes you 20 min to get in the gym during peak times. Sometimes your parking ticket expires and then you have to deal with the rude and horrible security staff! The parkings are also big enough for a scooter and parking is scarce. Coming in and out of this gym is a nightmare in all aspects. Once inside,its absolutely amazing. I just gym there seeing as it is walking distance from home.

Love it!

I love a nice clean and neat gym. This one does not disappoint. It is very spacious with a
Lovey pool and loads of difference areas to train. The staff is always very helpful and friendly. The equipment is fairly new and well maintained. It is always clean…

The best is there is an amazing view across the city to take your attention away from the pain…

They sell day membership for approx £20 per day! Well worth it!

Sauna constantly pongs. A small that never ever goes away, even straight after it’s “cleaned” at 11am… the theft of phones has historically also been bad, seems to be sorted now, though?

Gotten salmonella from the Nu lol. gym is not worth the price.

I’ve been a member at Rosebank Virgin Active for about 7 years and have never had a reason to complain…until now. I believe the manager has been made aware of this following issue but has NOT done anything about it : the skill mills in the general stretch area STINK so badly of old sweat that you cannot walk/run on them for 30 seconds without being nauseated by the disgusting smell. I know we all sweat at gym but honestly, these machines need some form of maintenance / deep cleaning …one cannot exercise on them. I’ve seen tons of people start walking on them and then getting off in seconds. The manager is aware of this problem but has failed to address it…shame on you !

Love that this is our regular gym; great facilities, amazing staff, spacious layout and great inspiring energy all round. Anytime I go to other Virgin Active gyms I’m reminded of why I love this one so much.

My experience at the Melrose branch with their staff has been extremely disappointing. The staff show little to no regard for maintaining the confidentiality of personal information, which is a clear violation of the requirements set out in the POPIA Act, and frankly should be reported. Their attitude towards assisting customers—especially when dealing with lost or stolen items—is indifferent at best. For the premium prices charged, the service is severely lacking. Proper training in customer service and data protection is urgently needed. I expected far better.

I have been inquiring over a week about transferring to another club. The staff don’t have a define answer on the process and I havent gotten a response on the customer support in which they told me to log a ticket. Did this twice. Extremely disappointed.

Update 16/02

It’s now been over a month with little to no communication from the branch manager. On the 3rd of Feb, I finally got a response back from Jennifer saying that my request has been escalated to Head Office and she will provide me with updates. The treatment of customers is appalling, and I regret choosing this as my gym of choice.

With no doubt, the coolest and one of the most professional gym I’ve ever seen so far in the world.
All the spaces are huge, luminous equipped with with the newest machines and smartly organised.
Several distinct areas equipped to exercise the different muscles groups, as an area dedicated to cardio, one to spinning and one for crossfit.
They have a studio dedicated for fitness and another hall dedicated to boxing and kickboxing, ring furnished.
Changing rooms are clean, huge and lockers provided.
The club is furnished as well with a huge kids club, a cafeteria and there is the possibility to have two hours of parking provided.
Last but not least, staff is super friendly, professional and prompt to attend all your needs…thanks for registering me so quickly….
Recommended with all my muscles groups , heart included

I can name it now as my Fav gym so far…
as we get to stay 24hrs layover in JNB, I took one day pass.

Khaya at frontdesk was beyond expectations, Very friendly, professional and helpful.

Terrible staff. Sauna rarely seems to work. Would not recommend joining.

Reply to the owner: You’re clearly not aware of what is and isn’t working at your gym. It has not been working for quite a while. Spoke to the manager who said it will be fixed. Called today for an update and they advised that it’s not yet been repaired.

Also please see attached pictures of your “100% working sauna”. These images were not taken soon after loadshedding so that is not a factor.

This is the best swimming school that offers a safe and supportive environment for learning, and it caters to toddlers, kids, and adults. They have well-maintained facilities, quality equipment, and top-notch instructors. They also offer training for competitive swimmers. Now I know proper swimming techniques and water safety. If you’re looking for an affordable school that offers more lessons, Splash Aquademy is for you and not forgetting that their lessons are 40 minutes and most swimming schools are 30 minutes.

I am a retired senior citizen aged 66. I joined Splash Aquademy end of October 2024 as a birthday gift to myself…swimming had always been my great passion. However I never knew how to swim…I am so glad I took the plunge…every lesson has been so enjoyable. The instructors that have been teaching me…Coach Diedier…Gavin…Tiffany and Jose are the best. They are so kind…very friendly…patient and encouraging. I feel so safe, comfortable & relaxed in the pool. The whole atmosphere surrounding the pool feels like a holiday resort… so tranquil & absolutely inviting…I am actually so fascinated with what I have achieved with their expertise and dedication…I feel as though I am becoming a natural born swimmer in such a short space of time. I would highly recommend Splash Aquademy to anyone aged from…0 to 99.
So please sign up today…swimming is a life skill… ‍♂️

Good day, Christel.

I just wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation and admiration for the outstanding instruction Nthabiseng provided during my swimming lesson today. Her patience, expertise, and enthusiasm have made a significant impact on my progress and confidence in the water.

Her ability to break down complex techniques into manageable parts and provide constructive feedback has been invaluable. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my lesson and look forward to continuing to improve. And also thanks to the greater team as well, for the exceptional instructions, and for making my swimming journey so enjoyable!

Best regards,

Palesa Shokgolo

My son hates sports or any form of exercise so when I took him for the swimming lessons I thought he was going to hate it and quit after the first lesson. But because of the friendly instructors he was so excited after each session and couldn’t wait to go back for more. Thank you for the great experience. You guys are absolutely the best !!

My daughter was so nervous for her first lesson but Teacher Tiffany was so patient with her that she didn’t even realise that she was in the water… now she only wants Teacher Tiff and even calls her cute. I cant wait to start my lessons, and thank you very much for what you are doing for my daughter

Fairly spacious gym.
A few machines need urgent repairs and maintenence.

The wifi is just about non-existent- the staff at Kauai even told me that it is not possible to buy anything there because the wifi is so weak it is basically not working.

VGA Honeydew is very nice, not that big as it looks though, it’s just that it’s wide & opened inside the changing rooms are wide enough, the v club is also wide. The parking is also huge. They have new machines as well .
The was some funny smell in the showers I think it was the drain, hope it will be sorted out.
Other than that it was a good visit.

I have been to many virgin active gyms but this one is just not good. The equipment is nice but everything is on top of each other. There is no space to breathe without breathing someone else’s air. The water fountains are broken and the one that does work has low pressure and so you have to give it a blow job to have water but the staff are very friendly.

EDIT:
Since originally posting my review, improvements have been made. Boards have been posted explaining the machine repair delay, asking staff and members to wear masks and the cleaning boards have also been used during cleaning cycles. Thank you for improving and showing commitment to gym members. Much appreciation!

Original Review:
Every time I come to this gym the machine is either frozen or not working.

Overall the gym is clean and weights are available.

Hazardous cable spanning the whole gym floor wide with no boards to indicate the possible fall.

Staff and many people not wearing the required mask inside the gym. Only when entering the gym people are wearing afterwards no one has a mask on?

Photo: Machine stuck on 5 after trying to adjust the setting for 10min. Slow and unresponsive user interface.

It’s a good gym, with all the associated amenities. It’s also popular, so there’s a wait for most equipment in busy periods, so time your workout well.