Active Movement Studio Parramatta — Attraction in Sydney

I was incredibly nervous the first time I walked into Active Movement Studios (AMS) in Feb 2025. I’d spent the last 4 months of 2024 in the darkness of major depression. I was fortunate that inpatient treatment allowed me to see the light but it’s still a tricky/ frightening thing returning to everyday life. Returning to work, taking yourself out of isolation and reconnecting socially, and starting that thing called exercise!

I’d made an appointment with Laura Holmes for an exercise physiology assessment. I was anxious about what to ask and expect. I didn’t know what was possible. All my fears evaporated with Laura’s gentle encouragement, smiles and questions. When I didn’t have a clue (pretty often) she’d say well some of the people I work with are aiming for this, that or the other…..

As any one living with mental illness knows, there is still a lot of stigma attached to it. I am careful about who I discuss my depression and treatment with. Laura quickly gained my trust as I felt listened to. For example, she was putting together an exercise program for me to do at home between our sessions and asked if it would be helpful to include some guided meditations. I remember smiling and thinking ‘yep she gets it’.

The thing I’ve learnt about AMS is that whether you’re a ‘nervous newbie’ like me or a regular; whether you need help exploring and conceiving your goals (me again 😊) or can define them within an inch of their life; and whether you are on a new quest or recovering from physical or mental illness or injury, this place is warm and welcoming. It cares about responding to individual needs within a nurturing collective.

For people experiencing any difficulties with mental health and looking for a positive environment that supports your recovery, I couldn’t recommend it more highly. Please say hello to the 50 year old who currently finds burpees a ‘bridge too far’ if you decide...

I unfortunately tore a rotator cuff muscle in my L shoulder 5 months ago. It affected me physically & mentally. However, despite the nauseating, sinking feeling in my stomach that my body has let me down, I pushed through with the endless help & support of staff from Active Movement Studio.

I was extremely blessed & very much grateful, specifically to Mathew (Physio) & Shaf (EP) who always went above & beyond to help me get back to where i was.

They are extremely intelligent & pretty damn good at their jobs They answered my million-and-one questions. They took the time to educate me about my injury, associated referred pain, exercises that will better my symptoms & why/how. They demonstrated interprofessional collaboration & had a holistic approach Without a doubt greeted me with a smile every single session (as did all the staff) & showed devotion to their career+ client as health professionals The joyous atmosphere and vibe they created really showed genuine unity, synergy & solidarity in their workplace which definitely played a factor in my recovery (positivity/optimism despite the unfortunate circumstance).

10 STARS for AMS. I will continue on as a client with AMS in the near future or when needed. I honestly couldn't recommend anyone better.

Thanks...

I came to Active Movement Studio when I suddenly had severe pain in my knees one day. I couldn't walk or even squat without feeling pain. I thought I would no longer be able to do any exercise or go for a hike/trek which I love so much. However, Christine (physiotherapist) and Emma (exercise physiologist) helped me get rid of the pain and even get back on track with my regular exercises. I can even go for hikes, long coastal walks and difficult treks without any pain. Christine helped me find the root cause of the pain instead of just treating my knee pain. She provided the best care and program to mobilise my muscles correctly. Emma helped me with building the strengh of my muscles and achieve my long term goal of doing the difficult treks without any pain. They both are very caring, talented and amazing people. I can't thank them enough for looking after me, pushing my limits and giving me a boost in my confidence. It's been around 8-9 months since I first came to this studio, and I now know my body and muscles better because of them. The staff are very friendly, professional and kind. They have helped me fit all the appointments in my busy schedule, which I couldn't have done by myself :) Thank you so much...