Have you ever wanted to try a new sport or fitness class, but chickened out at the last minute because you didn’t know what to expect? Us too. That’s why we created our ‘Beginner’s Guide’ series. It’s a place for us to chat to founders, trainers and business owners throughout the Gold Coast. To find out what to expect, what to bring and (often most importantly) what to wear, we’re going straight to the source.
In this instalment, we catch up with Madi Short, owner of the new J.I.M (Joy In Movement) studio in Burleigh.
We’re excited to welcome J.I.M to Burleigh! What exactly is it?
J.I.M is a fully automated infrared-heated studio, offering 30-minute, low-impact, high-result workouts guided on screen.
How did you get into J.I.M? And when?
With a background in professional swimming, representing Australia at the Olympics, movement has always been a huge part of my life. But stepping out of that world and into motherhood completely shifted my perspective. As a busy mum, I still craved that connection to movement, but it had to fit into real life.
That’s what really drew me to J.I.M. Seeing it expand so quickly into communities across Australia, bringing Joy in Movement to places like Burleigh felt like the perfect fit. It aligned so naturally with where I’m at now.
What do you love about it?
I love how efficient it is. It’s just 30 minutes, which fits seamlessly into my busy life, but you still get the full experience, strength, movement and all the recovery benefits in one.
Who should try it?
J.I.M is for anyone who wants an alternative to the traditional gym. Whether you’re coming from a high-performance background, returning postpartum or from injury, or simply trying to fit movement into a busy lifestyle, it’s designed to meet you where you’re at. The dark, mirror-free space with on-screen guidance removes the pressure, while the low-impact, adaptable workouts still challenge you in all the right ways.
What equipment do you need to bring? And what should you wear?
You don’t need much everything is provided in studio. Just bring a full length towel, hand towel water bottle and yourself. Wear something you feel comfortable moving in, like activewear you don’t mind sweating in, you also don’t wear any shoes or socks!
How many times per week should you do it in order to see results/improvement?
For optimal results, aim for two to four sessions per week. Consistency is what allows you to experience the full benefits, from improved flexibility and core strength to the added recovery and detoxification effects of the infrared heat. As your body adapts, you can always increase frequency depending on your goals, but even a few sessions each week can make a noticeable difference in how you feel.
Is it social?
Yes, but in a really balanced way. There’s a strong sense of community in the room, you’re all moving through it together, but it still allows you to stay at your own pace and focus on yourself. It’s as social as you want it to be.
How much experience is needed before the first session?
None at all. It’s designed for people who don’t feel drawn to a traditional gym environment. The space is dark, mirror-free and guided on screen, so you can focus on your own movement without feeling watched or overwhelmed. It’s an easy, welcoming place to start, no matter your experience level.
What are the long-term benefits?
Long term, it’s about building strength in a sustainable way. You’ll improve muscle tone, mobility and overall body awareness, while also supporting recovery and reducing stress. It’s something you can stick with not just for results, but because it actually feels good to do.
What would you say to someone who is interested in trying J.I.M, but scared to try it for the first time?
That feeling is completely normal, but this is exactly the kind of space designed to make that first step easier. You’re not expected to be anything other than where you’re at. Once you get through that first class, you realise it’s not about being the fittest or the strongest, it’s just about showing up and moving your body in a way that feels good.
