Translated by Bethszabee Garner

2,000 members come to sweat, but above all to meet, exchange ideas, and find inspiration. Roller parties, comedy clubs, art exhibitions, and aperitifs punctuate life at this creative wellness center. A second location has even opened in the 18th arrondissement, near Lamarck. Want to work out without going down to a dark basement? Head to Édonisme, La Montgolfière Paris is an unusual club housed in a former factory in the 10th arrondissement. More than just a gym, it's a real living space where you can work out in natural light, chat after a yoga class, discover young artists, or enjoy a live concert. Ruben and Basile, the founding duo, wanted to create an alternative to the standardized world of fitness. They wanted a human touch, connection, and beauty. Mission accomplished.

A hybrid space in the heart of Paris

Welcome to the former Montgolfière, a converted factory in the 10th arrondissement. The building has had a thousand lives, including production offices for Luc Besson, headquarters for Pixar and Xilam, and more. Today, it beats to the rhythm of a sports club unlike any other.

There are no harsh neon lights or rows of machines lined up like in the army. Instead, there is natural light, weathered parquet flooring, and an open, artistic, lively space. The venue hosts group classes, as well as concerts, conferences, roller skating evenings, and dinners in collaboration with chefs.

Every two months, an exhibition of emerging artists is organized, always with a friendly opening reception. The room becomes a gallery, the hall a theater, and sport a social occasion.

“The Safe Place collective organizes feminist discussions there, Louis Derien held a conference there for his brother's cause... It's a whole culture of care, connection, and sharing that drives us at La Montgolfière,” says Ruben Bertrand.

A new idea of sport

Ruben Bertrand, a sports coach, and Basile Lombard-Latune, a former financier, met in a gym. Together, they wanted to rethink the experience and do away with the “sweaty anonymity” of traditional gym chains.

Their credo was to offer a more specialized service, an attractive venue, and above all, a close-knit community.

Their second location, opened in the 18th arrondissement near the Lamarck metro station, follows the same formula: a somewhat hidden spot, far from busy streets, but full of charm and energy. Since 2018, La Montgolfière has been bringing together a community of thirty-somethings who are comfortable in their own skin and curious about the world. Two locations, exhibitions every two months, and engaging sessions.