New gym for over-60s
Want to be fitter and stronger, enjoy walks with friends, or simply keep up with the grandkids? Meet Thirroul dietitian Lilliana Barone, the founder of Elossa, a gym for ages 60+ opening in Corrimal this month Please tell us a bit about yourself. I...
Want to be fitter and stronger, enjoy walks with friends, or simply keep up with the grandkids? Meet Thirroul dietitian Lilliana Barone, the founder of Elossa, a gym for ages 60+ opening in Corrimal this month
Please tell us a bit about yourself.
I was lucky enough to move to the Illawarra 24 years ago and I feel very privileged to be living in such a beautiful area.
I grew up in country NSW, moved to Sydney to study and completed a Masters in Nutrition and Dietetics at Sydney University. I have worked as a dietitian for nearly 30 years and am a specialist clinical lead in aged care.
My husband and I recently became ‘empty nesters’ when our third and last child moved to Sydney to study and, being Italian, I miss the chaos of my family around the dinner table.
What inspired you to start Elossa Fitness?
Elossa is a specialised gym for people aged 60+ and it was born out of my passion to improve the quality of life of older people.
Through my work I have fostered a deep interest in health and wellbeing as we age. I am especially interested in how to maintain muscle strength and function as we get older so that we not only keep independent but also keep doing the things we enjoy doing for as long as possible.
I have been kicking around the idea for Elossa for five years and I am really excited about finally opening the doors.
How is it different to a regular gym?
Elossa is specifically targeted at the over-60s, which I think is unique. I want Elossa to be a place where members feel comfortable and supported without feeling intimidated. We have incorporated specialised equipment from Finland, which has been developed specifically for senior exercise, and our circuits are designed and run by expert accredited exercise physiologists to safely challenge and achieve results.
My hope is that people who come to Elossa will achieve their fitness goals and will also feel a sense of community and connection.
What's been the biggest challenge in launching your new business?
My biggest challenge has been overcoming my own self-doubt. Starting a new business takes a big leap of faith – it is a big commitment of time and money. Having the support of my family and friends has played a big part in my being able to actually do it! I also really believe in what I am doing and that makes it easier to push through all the work required to get it launched in January!
Of course, COVID-19 has also been a big challenge – it delayed Elossa by two years.
Outside the gym, what are your favourite ways to exercise in the Illawarra?
I love walking with friends, family and my dog through the bush or on the beach and, of course, having a coffee afterwards! I regularly do a weights-based circuit. I enjoy mountain biking – there are lots of great tracks and I am a new convert to the e-bike! I also enjoy splashing around in the ocean, although I am a bit of a wimp, so I only do this in summer.
