By Chris Granville

In a select area of Manhattan’s Upper East Side trainer Nikki Tissington has recently opened a beautiful boutique training studio that caters to the neighborhood’s exclusive cliental. As I made my way over to Thrive Studio I recalled the tiny apartment I rented on the same block years ago. The click clack of Valentino heels outside my window and Saint Laurent bags being opened at Citatrella’s checkout counter were not uncommon in the 10021 zip code. Nikki has designed Thrive to match the expectations of those who live, shop and frequent the neighborhood and from what I saw on my visit she’s done an impressive job.

Occupying two floors in a townhouse on East 74th Street Thrive feels almost spa-like when first entering. The hardwood floors of the entrance give way to wood beam ceilings that compliment exposed brick walls. Just beyond a set of glass doors is a landscaped garden area that serves as an ideal setting for clients to relax before or after a workout. Once upstairs the high ceilings combine with floor to ceiling windows allowing for a bright and airy feel. Sophisticated fixtures such as a fireplace and large framed mirrors can be found weaving their way through the treadmills, kettle bells and free weights. And features original to the townhouse, most notably the private bathrooms, will make clients feel like they are a guest in one’s home more than an anonymous member of a gym.

However, that’s not to say that Thrive is all relaxation and serenity. It’s a serious studio where Nikki and the other 22 trainers that use the space can create creative and effective workout programs for their clients. A full range of equipment can be found on both floors – heavy boxing bags, spinning bikes, cables, squat racks just to name a few. Everything a trainer would need is available. Despite the abundance of equipment the rooms are carefully planned and do not feel overcrowded, so there is more than enough room to lay out a couple of yoga mats or do some plyometric training. And only two trainers are allowed in any one room at a time maintaining the exclusive feel.

As Nikki walked me through the studio I got the sense that this is somewhere where I would really want to come to work out – or train a client. Her friendly, professional, intelligent approach both as a studio owner and a trainer reinforces that. Thrive’s door is open to independent trainers and at $30 per session for use of this high-end space in this upscale neighborhood it’s easy to see why trainers will begin flocking there. And clients looking for an upmarket experience in their workout regimen will no doubt find it at this beautiful little townhouse on East 74th Street. Thrive is off to a great start and the future certainly does look bright!