In the heart of Thornwood, resident Molly Colsant has established herself as the owner of Pure Barre South Elgin, a boutique fitness studio that reflects her dedication to wellness. Molly and her family moved to Thornwood seven years ago, just before the arrival of their first son, Louie. Since then, she has been an active member of the community, appreciating the supportive network of neighbors and the enjoyment of pool days with her boys.

Molly's journey into the world of fitness began early. At just 14, she was already teaching exercise classes, a focus that continued through her college years and into her professional career. Initially working in broadcast and then recruiting, Molly consistently found herself drawn to fitness, often attending or teaching classes around her work schedule. This led her to seize the opportunity to open a Pure Barre studio in South Elgin, turning a long-standing interest into a successful business.

Pure Barre, known for its low-impact, full-body workouts, has nearly 650 studios and over 100,000 active members, making it a leader in the boutique fitness industry. Molly was granted the franchise license in February 2020, right before the global shutdown. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, she immersed herself in the brand, becoming a member and working at the front desk of the South Barrington studio, and eventually undergoing rigorous franchise and teacher training.

Opening the doors of Pure Barre South Elgin in 2022 was the culmination of years of hard work and preparation. Molly assembled a top-notch teaching team, drawing from her local connections and personal experience in fitness. Her commitment to providing a first-class workout experience has been evident from day one. Molly actively sought out friends, former classmates, and group fitness or barre teachers she had taken classes with throughout the years to build what she confidently describes as the best team in the area.

Reflecting on her career shift, Molly said, "When the opportunity to open Pure Barre in South Elgin and turn my passion into a vocation presented itself, I was all in. We were granted the franchise license in February of 2020, weeks before the world shut down, so I spent several years in 'Pre-Sale,' and soaking up everything I could about Pure Barre."

Molly's greatest reward comes from witnessing the profound impact Pure Barre has on its members. She has had clients share deeply personal stories about how starting at Pure Barre helped with depression and anxiety, lowered cholesterol, increased bone density, and restored their sense of self after having a baby. She has watched friendships form, heard stories of grandmothers feeling more energetic with their grandchildren, and seen confidence grow as members achieve milestones and meet their fitness goals.

"The most fulfilling aspect of my job are the 'goosebump' moments I get when I see a client's life change as a result of the work they put in at the studio," Molly shared. "I have had women tell me deeply personal stories about how starting at Pure Barre has helped with depression and anxiety, helped lower cholesterol or increase bone density, or reminded them of their sense of self after having a baby."

Beyond running her studio, Molly is actively involved with Pure Barre's corporate team and stays informed on industry trends through regular training and collaboration with other franchise owners. Her dedication to her business and community is steadfast, and she continues to find innovative ways to support local organizations and small businesses through events and fundraisers. For example, her studio hosts donation-optional pop-up classes to raise money for various causes and organizes events that showcase local businesses.

Molly Colsant's story is one of resilience, dedication, and community spirit, making her an inspiring figure in Thornwood and beyond.

Connect with Molly: mcolsant@purebarre.com | 224-535-8053 | @purebarresouthelgin