One of the things I love about London is its vibrant entrepreneurial culture. There is a niche for everyone and so many opportunities for people to collaborate, create and innovate. This is especially evident in the cities’ growing health and wellness scene. Since moving here, I have been amazed to discover that so many Australians are behind the leading brands and movements shaping the way Londoner’s approach health, fitness and food.
Here are 4 Australian entrepreneurs who are redefining the meaning of wellness in London.
James Duigan
James Duigan is the founder of Bodyism, one of London’s leading fitness training and lifestyle studios. After relocating from Australia to the UK over 10 years ago, Duigan launched his training business in London in 2000. After attracting some huge celebrity clients including Elle Macpherson and Rosie Hungtington Whitely, the Adelaide born entrepreneur has continued to expand his wellness empire which now includes a number of Bodyism studios, best selling cook books and a stylish range of activewear. James has recently opened his latest Bodyism studio in the heart of London’s Notting Hill which also includes a café offering a menu of delicious ‘clean and lean’ coffee, smoothies and snacks.
A photo posted by Paola Dilanzo (@pbodybarre) on
Paola Di Lanzo
Paola Di Lanzo is the body and the brains behind Paola’s BodyBarre – a workout that combines a mixture of dynamic Pilates, ballet, dance and fitness. Paola started her career in the fitness industry as a personal trainer in Australia before relocating to London 16 years ago where she began work in an exclusive Knightsbridge gym training celebrities, models, and executives. Recognising a need for more innovate body conditioning workouts, Paola began to focus on Pilates and developed her own routines that upped the anti on traditional styles. After opening her own studio in Fulham, Paolo’s classes have become a favourite of many West London celebrities and her business has now expanded to include an online activewear store.
“The way is not in the sky. The way is in the heart.” ~Buddha~ Want true health? Try following the heart. It knows what to eat and drink better than any diet book. It knows how to take care of you and it most certainly doesn’t think you’re fat. I’m not saying that you shouldn’t take advice if your life is a little out of balance. But let your application of that advice come from a place of love. #vertueliving #vertuemethod A photo posted by Shona Vertue (@shona_vertue) on
Shona Vertue
With a background in dance and gymnastic and extensive training in the disciplines of strength training body conditioning and yoga, Shona Vertue is certainly no ordinary fitness and wellness expert. A glance through her picturesque Instagram profile also shows Shona’s bright personality and enviable strong sculpted shape are a true testament to her holistic approach to movement, mindset and lifestyle. Shona, who was born in Australia, has established herself as one of London’s most in demand yoga teachers, having a spent time working as a Performance Specialist at Bodyism, she has a number of high profile clientele and is regularly featured as an expert in health publications and international media including Women’s Health, Instyle and Mashable.
London’s going green 💚#coldpressedjuice #drinkyourgreens A photo posted by Lauren Armes (@laurenarmes) on
Lauren Armes
Lauren Armes is the founder of Welltodo London an online platform that publishes to global wellness news for brands, industry professionals and entrepreneurs. Through breaking industry news, consumer trends and insights, Welltodo aims to influence business decisions, spotlight opportunities, and share opinions that shape the wellness industry. With a background in marketing and international business development, Lauren was inspired to set up WellToDo after she relocated from Australia to London and noticed a gap in the market for a platform that catered to the growing number of wellness businesses popping up in the city. The website has found a dedicated following and has expanded to include a careers resource and business events and career workshops.
