When Theresa Barnes first started her workout group, Phat Girl Fitness, it was meant as a way to gather likeminded women in the community for fun exercise classes.
Barnes just wanted to feel better, both physically and mentally, and was hoping to lift others up with her.
Since it launched in July 2023, it's quickly morphed into a central hub for physical and mental wellness.
Barnes then created Fireside Haven Studio, which recently moved into a new home at 54 Guelph Ave in Hespeler, to host Phat Girl Fitness sessions and a variety of community events.
It all has humble beginnings, originally running out of local community centres and schools with not much more than a couple of skipping ropes and hoola hoops.
Never did Barnes think it would become what it has.
"I got sick of lugging all the equipment and figuring out what school we were going to be at," Barnes said of the early days.
"I said I wanted my own place and studio and originally found a place on Queen Street."
The Queen Street location did the job for a while, she said, but was ultimately too small for what she was trying to build.
When the Guelph Avenue building came up on the market, she jumped on it.
The Phat Girl Fitness and Fireside Haven Facebook group now has over 380 members and counting, as Barnes continues to fulfill her vision.
"We were focused on the physical but I wanted to focus a lot more on mental health," she said.
"Without my own space, I wasn't able to do that. Having this, I can put on different workshops, ladies retreats, meditation, yoga and events. Things to get people out of the house and having fun."
Barnes didn't see it developing into a business and still doesn't, as she simply hopes to break even after paying her bills.
The greater goal is helping others and creating a safe space for women.
From a physical standpoint, her strength, stamina and balance has all improved from the non-traditional workouts like dancing, she said.
Dealing with her own mental health, the group has also given her the confidence to try new things and take chances.
"Putting myself out there and meeting new people, at one point I wouldn't do that," she said.
"Being able to move and feel good about myself has definitely helped."
Regardless of how the business grows from here, she hopes others can take inspiration through her story.
"I always say we're a judgment free zone," she said.
"I hope it will motivate someone to say 'she can do it, so can I.'"
