Newport Peach was founded in 2017 by Nicole Kniss with a clear and intentional mission: to create a fitness studio that felt welcoming, joyful, and judgment-free. After experiencing workout environments that felt impersonal, Nicole Kniss discovered barre and was drawn to its blend of strength, femininity, and community. That experience shaped her belief that movement could be empowering, social, and fun—the exact values Newport Peach continues to celebrate today.
Starting from the ground up, Nicole Kniss designed the studio’s signature offerings, including Peach Step—a unique fusion of step aerobics, barre, and mat Pilates that is accessible, playful, and unlike anything else on the market. With limited resources but a strong sense of purpose, she built Newport Peach through grassroots outreach, hands-on teaching, and an unwavering focus on community.
From the beginning, the studio emphasized connection over comparison and joy over perfection.
Between challenging landlords, a global pandemic, welcoming her first baby, and being forced to relocate (and rebuild) multiple times, Nicole Kniss faced more than her share of obstacles—not only in keeping the neon lights glowing and doors open, but in growing her small fitness dream into a thriving local business. Through it all, she persevered, following her passion for as long as she could.
That energy is what drew clients in—and what ultimately caught the attention of Nicole Schmitz.
A longtime Newport Peach client, Nicole Schmitz brought an extensive background in wellness and business. A certified holistic health coach since 2010, she also had experience in psychology, sales, marketing, and fitness management. As a mother of two, she understood the importance of creating movement spaces that were realistic, supportive, and inclusive—focused on simplicity, enjoyment, top-notch customer service, and down-to-earth instructors. From the moment she discovered Newport Peach, she was drawn to its vibe, bold branding, and step class “like nothing else”—a reflection of creativity and authenticity rarely seen in boutique fitness.
Nicole Schmitz recognized something special in both the studio and its founder. She saw how clients lit up when they spoke about Newport Peach and understood the deep impact it had on the community. When Nicole Kniss shared that the demands of the current marketplace and motherhood were no longer sustainable for her family, Nicole Schmitz was determined to preserve this special space while strengthening the business for long-term sustainability.
The two Nicoles came to an agreement for Nicole Schmitz to purchase the studio—keeping the branding, values, and teachers intact—while implementing a stronger business plan to maintain and grow Newport Peach. She intentionally retained Nicole Kniss as a lead teacher and trainer, ensuring continuity of the studio’s heart, energy, and class offerings.
Today, Newport Peach continues to grow under this shared vision. This beloved local spot is known for its unmistakable 90s-inspired aesthetic—bright colors, natural light, real plants, lava lamps, glow sticks, and thoughtfully curated merchandise—creating an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and empowering.
There is truly no studio quite like it.
At its core, Newport Peach celebrates feminine energy without pressure or pretense. There is no focus on transformation or calorie counting—just booty-shaking, joyful movement, and leaving with that unmistakable Peachy glow.
Newport Peach is about coming together, loving yourself as you are, supporting the women around you, and having fun while staying healthy.
As Newport Peach moves forward, its mission remains unchanged: to offer a space where everyone feels accepted, celebrated, and truly at home the moment they walk through the doors. Nicole Kniss, Nicole Schmitz, and the dedicated Newport Peach team are thrilled to keep this Peach peachin’.