Upper Arlington studio wins top fitness award from Ohio State voters

Ohio State students and community members voted Body Alive Upper Arlington the best workout class in The Lantern’s 2026 Best of OSU special edition. The studio at 1600 W. Lane Ave. secured the top spot with 188 votes. Elley Sanfillipo, who owns and operates all Body Alive locations in Columbus, said the award reflects strong support from the university community.

The studio focuses on high-energy, heated sessions that emphasize music and group motivation. Its class lineup includes yoga, Pilates, and Lagree. According to the company website, Lagree is a low-impact method that tones the body by engaging nearly 600 muscles simultaneously. Body Alive was founded in Cincinnati and now operates 41 studios across the United States.

Riley Adkins, a third-year finance major at Ohio State, became an instructor at the studio after transferring from the University of Cincinnati. She began attending classes at the Polaris Studio immediately upon arriving in Columbus in June 2025. Adkins started her instructor training in November of that year and has taught for nearly one year. She said the close-knit community inspired her to move from being a student to a leader in the space.

Alyssa Boutwell, an Ohio State alumna and current instructor, highlighted the personal connections formed within the studio. She said she met some of her closest friends during her senior year through these classes. Boutwell noted that students use the studio both to meet new people and to spend time with existing friends. The proximity to campus allows for easy integration into a student’s daily routine.

Pricing remains a key factor for college students. A single class costs $20, but new members can try their first session for $5. Returning members can purchase a six-week, unlimited package for $36. Sanfillipo confirmed that additional discounts are available online for Ohio State students. These include reduced rates on unlimited monthly memberships and specific class packages.

Sanfillipo advised first-time attendees to approach classes with an open mind. She said participants should not worry about perfecting movements. Her goal is for students to tune out outside noise and focus on listening to their bodies. The studio aims to provide a space where people can enjoy the workout without pressure.

Those interested in trying a class can sign up through the Body Alive website. The studio continues to serve the Upper Arlington neighborhood and the nearby university population.