About SiSU Canberra | Wellness Studio in Deakin

our story

Why the studio was built this way

Sisu is a Finnish word for courage, determination and the human ability to push through life's challenges.

SiSU exists because recovery, movement and psychological support are usually delivered in three different buildings by three sets of people who never speak to each other. Here they sit together, and the treatment reflects that.

Our philosophy is built on that Finnish idea. With the right support, we can all live at our best. Through carefully curated services, we focus on improving both physical and psychological health in an environment that fosters empowerment, safety and growth.

Deakin from above, looking across to Lake Burley Griffin

start here

New to SiSU

Everything you would want to know before a first visit, so the only decision left is which class.

Step one

Pick a class

New to reformer Pilates? Choose a class marked for beginners. Want to build strength and mobility on the mat? Start with mat Pilates. After breath, focus and a practice you can take off the mat? Start with yoga.

See the class types

Step two

Get the Intro Offer

Four classes for $49, used across your first two weeks. Enough to try reformer, mat, yoga and guided meditation before deciding anything.

Step three

Arrive ten minutes early

Your first visit takes a few minutes at reception. Come in ten minutes before the class starts and you will not be rushed.

Find the studio

frequently asked questions

The things people ask at reception

What should I wear, and do I need my own grip socks?

Anything you can move in. Grip socks are required on the reformer for safety, and we sell them at reception if you do not have a pair. Yoga is practised barefoot.

Do I need any experience?

No. Classes marked for beginners assume you have never done this before, and instructors will offer you a lighter option in every exercise. Tell the instructor before class if it is your first time and they will keep an eye on you.

How early should I arrive?

Ten minutes early for your first class, five after that.

What is the difference between an ice bath and contrast therapy?

An ice bath booking is the cold on its own. Contrast therapy alternates the cold with the sauna in guided rounds, in a private room where both sit side by side. There are two contrast rooms, one with an ice bath and one with an ice shower, so you choose which cold you want when you book. Everything runs 45 minutes.

If you are new to this, start with contrast therapy. The sauna between rounds makes the cold far easier to tolerate, and it is the swing between the two that does most of the work.

The room is private and you have it to yourself. You get in, you breathe, and you get out when you decide to. Our team will show you how everything works before your first session.

Because you are in there on your own, it matters that cold exposure is right for you. If you are unsure, please talk to us and to your doctor before you book.

What does trauma-informed mean in practice, for me, during a class?

It means the class is built so nothing happens to you without warning. Hands-on adjustments are offered rather than assumed, and you can decline them. You can lie down, sit out, or leave the room at any point without explaining why. Instructors will not single you out for doing so.

Can I bring my service dog?

Yes, in every area of the studio, including classes. If you can, let us know when you book. That gives us time to have the space ready for the two of you, and to let other members know a service dog will be there. More on this.

What if I need to cancel?

The cancellation window is shown when you book, and it differs between classes, wellness appointments and programs. Cancelling inside that window may cost you the class credit or a late cancellation fee, and not turning up is treated as a no-show.

Cancelling a membership is different: all memberships require one month's written notice.

If something genuinely unavoidable comes up, talk to us. Full cancellation terms.

Is there somewhere to shower and change?

The sauna and contrast therapy rooms each have their own private shower, with towels, shampoo, conditioner and body wash provided. If you have booked one of those sessions, you can rinse off in the room before you leave.

There are no separate shower facilities for classes, so plan to head home or back to work as you are.

Still deciding?

Call reception on (02) 6198 8695 and we will talk you through it, or come and look at the space first.

Visit the studio