LAKEVIEW — When Gizel Schwartz learned the rent for her Southport pilates studio would increase 20 percent this spring, she knew she had to move — again.
Her boutique studio, Core Concepts Pilates (formerly Spring Wellness), launched nearly a decade ago near Waveland and Southport avenues.
Four years in, high rent pushed the studio a couple blocks south to Newport and Southport avenues. This month, Core Concepts moved again — five blocks south to 1408 W. Belmont Ave.
"We love being in the neighborhood. Central Lakeview has such a great client base: We've got the moms, we've got the 9-to-5-ers," Schwartz said.
But finding affordable rent was tough with "out-of-control" Southport prices.
"It's a lot of national retailers, and the prices are so expensive," Schwartz said. "We're just a fitness studio."
By moving to Belmont, where the studio sits just west of Southport, Schwartz said she was able to keep her clients and offer the same classes.
To celebrate the new location, Core Concepts will host a grand opening event from 9 a.m.-noon Sunday.
Schwartz is offering free snacks and free classes, including Pilates Mat Sculpt and Ballet Booty Burn. All purchases are 15 percent off, and raffle prizes include movie tickets, workout clothes and a spa gift card.
To register for classes, visit the website.
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