Inside a Fluidform Pilates Retreat: Moving with purpose

Set across several luxurious Linnaeus Collection properties near Berry on the NSW South Coast, the experience was seamless. Private cars were available to transfer us between venues, accommodation was beautifully curated, and Linnaeus Farm quickly became our wellness playground - complete with swimming pool, infrared sauna, hot and cold plunge pools, meditation huts and flourishing vegetable gardens. All activities were optional, which meant the retreat unfolded at your own pace. Some guests filled every moment; others leaned deeply into rest and restoration. No judgement - just choice.

At the heart of it all was Kirsten, Fluidform Founder and Pilates powerhouse. Kirsten has been teaching Pilates for more than 20 years, and it shows - not through ego, but through confidence, clarity and an exceptional depth of anatomical knowledge. She moves constantly through the room, offering personalised cues, hands-on adjustments and genuine encouragement. She’s serious about Pilates because she understands its transformative power, but she balances that focus with fun, humour and ease.

Kirsten’s own journey into Pilates began as part of her healing after an injury - a love-at-first-class moment that grew into a global brand, multiple studios across NSW and Victoria, online programs, hotel partnerships and international retreats (with the annual Fiji retreat a much-loved highlight). On retreat, her passion is palpable. “I love being part of someone’s wellness journey,” she says. “And connecting with the Fluidform community in a more personal way - there’s simply more time together.”

That time is what truly differentiates a retreat from the studio. In a studio, classes are efficient and focused - you get down to business quickly. On retreat, Pilates becomes immersive and layered. Each class builds on the one before it, unlocking new levels of understanding, confidence and body awareness. Make no mistake, you’ll still work hard and break a sweat - but you’ll also learn skills that stay with you long after you return home.

Day one set the tone with an afternoon Pilates session focused on glutes, legs and abs. The excited chatter of arrivals was quickly channelled into deep, purposeful movement. That evening, dinner at Morea Farm - led by acclaimed chef Alex Pritchard - showcased vibrant dishes bursting with flavour and featured produce straight from the farm.

Day two delivered four distinct classes, beginning with a circuit-style session using hand and ankle weights, a large exercise ball and (yes) the booty bands. That was followed by a deeply focused ab activation class, where slow, controlled movements brought a sense of quiet strength and grace. Breath and awareness came next - not gentle, but powerful - using breath to enhance effort and efficiency. The day finished with form and posture, tying everything together.

In between, Sydney facialist Lowri Webb led a session on facial sculpting, cupping, lymphatic drainage and massage - a surprisingly meditative pause. That evening, we returned to Morea Farm for a shared meal celebrating connection, local produce and family recipes.

Day three began with an early walk to Drawing Room Rocks near Berry - a heart-pumping climb rewarded with sweeping views. One final Pilates session followed, then a grounding meditation on the lawn, a long brunch, Q&A and heartfelt farewells.

The group was wonderfully diverse - mothers and daughters, friends, solo travellers and Pilates instructors - spanning ages, abilities and backgrounds from across the country. Different stories, shared intention.

I left feeling stronger, more aligned and quietly empowered. A Fluidform retreat doesn’t just teach you about Pilates - it supports you to move through life with greater ease, awareness and care.

Feeling inspired? The next Fluidform Retreat is planned for May 2026 at Six Senses Fiji.