Charlestown‘s fitness scene is about to level up.
Studio Louise, a brand-new boutique reformer Pilates studio, is planning to open at 100 First Avenue in the Charlestown Navy Yard later this summer, confirmed founder and CEO Emma Dodson. Designed to feel “elevated yet welcoming,” the studio will emphasize intentional movement and expert instruction, as well as foster a strong sense of community.
“As a former athlete, movement has always been a meaningful part of my life, but I often felt that fitness was focused on performance and outcomes rather than the experience itself,” Dodson told What Now Boston in an email. “Pilates changed that for me, it was the first form of movement that felt both empowering and enjoyable, something I genuinely looked forward to. It challenged me, strengthened me, and gave me a confidence that extended far beyond the studio.”
Studio Louise will offer small-group reformer classes capped at six clients, allowing instructors to provide personalized guidance and attention to form. The studio will also provide private Pilates sessions using a full range of equipment, including the Reformer, Tower, Chair, Cadillac, and Barrel.
The class schedule will include sessions for all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned practitioners, creating an approachable yet elevated Pilates experience in the heart of the Navy Yard. Once class is over, clients can head next door to the upcoming Ruthie’s Juice Cafe for a refreshing pick-me-up, with free two-hour street parking available nearby.
Ahead of opening, Studio Louise is rolling out founding memberships and launch discounts—the lowest rates the studio expects to offer—to those who want to join the community from day one.
The team is also hiring Pilates instructors ahead of its debut and is seeking coaches who share Dodson’s vision of creating a welcoming, community-focused studio. Those interested can fill out the instructor application or reach out via email at [email protected] for more information.
Studio Louise is currently putting the finishing touches on the space and plans to open before the end of August 2026, with an official grand opening date expected to be announced on Instagram at @studiolouise__ in the coming weeks.
“My hope is that Studio Louise becomes more than just a workout,” said Dodson. “I want it to be a place where people feel welcomed, supported, and confident, a space where you can show up exactly as you are, leave feeling stronger than when you arrived, and become part of a community that celebrates movement and connection.”
