The Gym Melbourne

The Gym Melbourne is more than a place to break a sweat during your workday at the Royal Children’s Hospital. It’s a place to recharge and connect.

Lonnie Pitcher, the driving force behind it all, explains: “We started with a focus on healthcare workers. We wanted to help them tackle burnout and give them a space where they could put themselves first. But before long, we noticed that families, friends, and locals were joining The Gym. So it’s turned into something bigger than we ever imagined—a real community.”

Lonnie’s passion for fitness started with myotherapy and personal training, then running a community-based gym tied to a hospital in Apollo Bay.

Despite his years of experience, opening The Gym Melbourne in 2018 came with its challenges. Prior to Lonnie taking over, the hospital’s gym had experienced multiple management changes, leaving behind a questionable reputation.

But Lonnie wasn’t fazed. “It was tough—the hardest thing I’ve ever done. But I knew if we could create the right environment, the community would show up.”

And that’s exactly what happened. Through the ups and downs, including the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Gym Melbourne provided a sense of stability when everything else felt uncertain.

As the world began to open up again, the gym saw a wave of people eager to rebuild their health and lives. “People were ready to take care of themselves again, but didn’t know where to start. That’s when we really started to grow,” Lonnie says.
So, what makes The Gym Melbourne successful now? It’s their approach that focuses on balance, fun, and inclusivity. “We’re not about pushing people to be the best at everything. We’re about giving people a space to enjoy moving their bodies—whether it’s yoga, pilates, cycling, or anything in between. It’s all about finding what works for you and having fun along the way,” says Lonnie.
Looking to the future, the gym’s growth is on the horizon, with a new fitness training and recovery space in the works in Errol Street, North Melbourne called Sphere Wellness Studio. “We’re expanding, but we’re doing it in a way that stays true to our mission—helping people build consistency in their health and their lives,” smiles Lonnie.

Words by Joyce Watts & Photography by Anna Encio