A variety of locally-owned businesses have recently opened in Lake Nona sharing one common theme: a focus on health and wellness. Located within walking distance from each other, these businesses contribute to Lake Nona’s dedication to cultivate a healthy and thriving community for everyone who lives, works and visits here. 

“I’m happy to be part of a community that makes wellbeing a priority,” said Elizabeth Diaz, Lake Nona resident and owner of Florida’s first Neighborhood barre, coming soon to Pixon along Lake Nona Boulevard. “The growth here is incredible. There’s just so much opportunity right now for families, businesses, health and wellness. The restaurants coming in and fitness boutiques close by – it’s just a great place to bring a business right now.” 

Combining the elements of dance conditioning and weight training for all skill levels, Neighborhood barre offers free pop-up events to its members and residents of Pixon, where they will move in near Veg’n Out, a recently-announced new tenant. The locally-owned, plant-based eatery is scheduled to open this spring. 

“Bringing Veg’n Out to life in Lake Nona gives us the opportunity to share our passion for a natural lifestyle and make a direct impact in our community,” said the café’s owner, Ashley Torres, who worked with a holistic nutritionist to develop the restaurant’s unique menu of smoothies, salads, juices and more. 

Pixon is also home to resident-owned Rukus Cycling Studios and Club Pilates. This collection of boutique businesses makes a big impact because they are owned by local entrepreneurs who know and love our community.

Jim Kilp, owner at Rukus Lake Nona, and his family have lived here for 16 years and watched the growth with excitement. “The sense of community and focus on health and wellness is important to us. When I was thinking about starting my own business, it was always about what I could bring to Lake Nona and how I could give back to the community.” 

Rukus is a high-tech indoor cycling facility featuring a variety of classes focused on cardio and strengthening the upper body. On Fridays after the 5:45 p.m. ride, Kilp and his business partner Amy Hudson host a happy hour for Rukus guests and members, who often stay after class to socialize. They recently started hosting a Sunday brunch after the 9:15 a.m. ride, bringing in snacks and ordering cold brew from Foxtail Coffee a few doors down. 

Next door to Rukus is Club Pilates, owned by long-time Lake Nona resident Michelle Bethencourt. Club Pilates specializes in core building reformer fusion exercises for all ages and fitness levels. 

In Lake Nona, these locally-owned businesses are creating jobs and building relationships that not only encourage healthy living but also a sense of community.  

“I love Lake Nona – what it’s doing and what it’s going to do,” said Kilp. “At Pixon, I knew we would be part of the action with Club Pilates next door, Foxtail a few doors down, and Neighborhood barre coming soon. Not a bad place for new and local business owners.”

To keep up-to-date with the latest Lake Nona news, visit LakeNona.com.