Have You Tried The Class Everyone’s Talking About? Meet Bend & Breathe

Posted by The Olympic Pools & Fitness Centre | Newmarket, Auckland

We know what you might be thinking. Another Monday morning class? Really?

But hear us out — because this one is different.

Every so often something new comes to The Olympic that genuinely stops people in their tracks. Bend & Breathe is that class. And whether you’re a long-time member who’s never quite found their thing in the group fitness room, or someone brand new to the idea of exercise entirely, this one was made with you in mind.

What Is Bend & Breathe?

Bend & Breathe is a brand new 50-minute class running every Monday morning from 6:00–6:50am, led by Wendy V — a yogi and wellness mentor with over 35 years of experience in movement, breath, and the nervous system.

The class blends three things that most of us desperately need more of: functional mobility, conscious breathwork, and nervous system regulation. Put simply, it’s a guided practice designed to help you move better, breathe deeper, and feel more centred — before the week has even had a chance to throw anything at you.

It is not a high-intensity class. It is not about pushing limits or hitting PBs. It’s about arriving, slowing down, and giving your body and mind the kind of attention they rarely get the rest of the week.

Why Breathwork?

Breathwork isn’t new — humans have known about the power of conscious breathing for thousands of years. But in a world that moves faster than ever, more and more people are rediscovering just how transformative something as simple as how you breathe can be.

The benefits are real and well-documented. Regular breathwork practice helps regulate your nervous system, reducing stress and improving your ability to stay calm under pressure. It improves focus, mental clarity, sleep quality, and recovery. It supports emotional balance and boosts energy levels. And when combined with intentional movement — as it is in Bend & Breathe — the effects are even more powerful.

If you’ve ever finished a tough week feeling wired but exhausted, or started a Monday already dreading Tuesday, this class exists for exactly that reason.

Who Is It For?

Everyone. And we mean that.

Bend & Breathe is genuinely one of those rare classes with no barrier to entry. You don’t need to be flexible. You don’t need any experience with yoga or breathwork. You don’t need to be fit, young, or a regular at the gym. Wendy meets participants exactly where they are, and the class is designed to grow with you over time.

For existing members who train hard — whether that’s lifting, swimming laps, or smashing group classes — Bend & Breathe is the perfect complement to high-intensity work. Recovery and nervous system regulation are just as important as the sessions that push you, and this class delivers both.

For anyone new to The Olympic, or new to fitness in general, there’s no better introduction to what this community is about. No judgement, no pressure, just a warm room and an experienced guide helping you feel better than when you walked in.

Come and See For Yourself

Bend & Breathe runs every Monday from 6:00–6:50am and is included in all full facility memberships. Casual visitors are also welcome — just turn up.

No booking required. We do recommend arriving 5–10 minutes early to get settled and set up.

If you haven’t tried it yet, this Monday is a great place to start. Check the live timetable at theolympic.co.nz/livetimetable or come and chat to our team at reception — we’d love to tell you more.

Move with intention. Breathe with awareness. Begin the week aligned.

— The Olympic, 77 Broadway, Newmarket, Auckland

Not yet a member? Try the full facility for 3 days for just $3 — no lock-in, no commitment. Claim your trial here.