Her Space – Mothers Are Working It Out

Since becoming a mother this year, I quickly leaned into the tug-of-war of motherhood –- balancing caring for our children with caring for ourselves. For Lauren Paul, a mom of two, that same adjustment led to the creation of a space that’s quickly become a favourite of mine, Step by Step Club – a Durham-based gym, play centre, and event space designed entirely around the needs of mothers.

At Step by Step, workouts are fueled by laughter, car seats line the walls, and babies babble along to upbeat playlists. Unlike your typical local gym, it is a space where mothers can rebuild strength and connect with other moms in a welcoming environment, with classes conveniently scheduled throughout the day.

Since opening a year ago, Lauren has fostered a judgmentfree and inclusive space that welcomes families of different size, race, and orientation. “I wanted every mom and family to walk in and feel seen, supported, and never judged,” she says.

“Motherhood can be isolating, so creating a space where women connect and lift each other up was just as important as the workouts themselves.”

Lauren’s personal experience was the inspiration behind opening the gym. “After becoming a mom, I realized how challenging it can be to prioritize wellness while balancing childcare, work, and self-care,” she explains. “There were plenty of gyms and play spaces, but few that combined the two in a meaningful way.”

With a background in developmental psychology and a growing passion for fitness, Lauren began by leading stroller classes in a local park after welcoming her first child. The group that formed around those early workouts sparked a bigger vision; to create a space that would combine effective workout programs for moms with entertainment for their children.

Step by Step challenges the idea that self-care for moms is indulgent. “We help moms see that self-care isn’t selfish — it’s essential,” Lauren states. “We make fitness accessible so moms can focus on their health without worrying about childcare.”

“It’s not about ‘bouncing back’, it’s about building strength, confidence, and community. We’re redefining wellness for moms in a way that’s sustainable, supportive, and guilt-free.”

For Lauren, running a women-focused business has reinforced the power of community. “When women feel safe, supported, and seen, they thrive both physically and emotionally,” she says. “Step by Step was built by women for women.” Through the challenges, it was her community that kept her going, offering helping hands and donating time to see her dream come to fruition.

And what does she hope her clients take away after a class? “That they leave feeling stronger — physically, mentally, and emotionally. Most of all, I want them to feel proud for showing up for themselves and reminded that self-care is something they deserve.”