Happy April! This month we got the wonderful opportunity to sit down with owner of It Figures Philly, Hallie Murphy. It Figures Philly is the only full service all women’s fitness facility in Northeast Philadelphia. As the owner, Murphy strives to empower women through fitness, helping them to prioritize self care. Murphy believes that self care isn’t selfish, it’s necessary and can be achieved through the community based focus at It Figures Philly.
PPRG: What inspired you to start It Figures Philly? What was your initial idea behind the business?
Hallie: When I purchased It Figures Philly in November 2023, I knew this wasn’t just about owning a gym—it was about filling a major gap. There was nothing like this in Northeast Philly. We had plenty of box gyms, but no boutique fitness spaces where women felt seen, supported, or even welcome. In July 2024, I merged It Figures with Northeast Cycle to expand our class offerings and create a space where women could get strong, sweat hard, and actually want to come back. I wanted to build something that felt more like a community than a gym—and that’s exactly what we’ve done.
PPRG: What sets your business apart from other fitness and wellness programs in the city?
Hallie: At It Figures Philly, we know your name. You’re not just swiping in and blending into the background. Our studio is 100% women-only, and we specialize in cycling, circuits, and strength training—but what really sets us apart is the vibe. We keep it real, we keep it fun, and yes—there might be a few dance breaks mid-workout. And don’t be surprised if Lil Jon drops in on the playlist to remind you that you’re that girl. It’s high-energy, supportive, and filled with women who are showing up for themselves and each other. You’ll leave feeling stronger, more confident, and probably yelling “that was a spicy one” on your way out.
PPRG: How did you get interested in Health and Wellness? What do you think the importance of Health and Wellness is for Women today?
Hallie: Fitness has always been in my blood—my dad and grandpa were both runners, and I ran track and cross country in high school. But it was doing my first Broad Street Run in 2013 that brought it all back to life for me. That race reignited my love of movement, and from there I went on to complete three full marathons, tons of half marathons, and even more Broad Streets. In 2016, I became a NASM certified personal trainer and a certified Spinning instructor, and I’ve been helping women move and feel strong ever since. For women today, health and wellness isn’t just about fitness—it’s about taking your power back. We carry so much for everyone else. It’s time we give some of that energy back to ourselves.
PPRG: It Figures Philly emphasizes creating a supportive, women-only environment. How do you feel It Figures Philly cultivates this sense of community among members?
Hallie: We’ve built something really special here. Women walk in feeling nervous, unsure, maybe even intimidated—then they leave class feeling strong, grounded, and uplifted. We do community challenges, member events, and lots of “just because” check-ins. But honestly? The real magic is in the day-to-day. The high fives, the “you got this” moments, and the women cheering each other on—even when they just met. It’s a vibe. And it’s exactly what so many of us have been craving.
PPRG: What was the biggest challenge you faced when launching It Figures Philly in a predominantly male industry?
Hallie: Redefining what strength really looks like. The fitness industry tends to glorify extremes—performance, appearance, intensity. But I wanted to build something where strength looks like showing up when you’re exhausted… where a victory might be making it through a tough day and still getting to class. The challenge was proving that you don’t have to be loud, aggressive, or ripped to be strong. Our version of strength is powerful—and it’s changing lives.
PPRG: As a woman business owner, what advice would you give to other women looking to start their own businesses?
Hallie: Do it scared. Do it messy. Just start. I didn’t wait until I had all the answers. I trusted my gut, leaned on community, and stayed fiercely connected to my mission. If your vision helps people and lights you up—you’re already on the right path.
PPRG: What has been the most rewarding moment in your journey through fitness entrepreneurship and physical training?
Hallie: Honestly? It’s the messages and convos from members who say things like, “I’ve never stuck with a gym before… but I’ve stuck with this.”
Or “I feel less stressed and anxious since coming here. It’s about how I feel—not just how I look.” That’s everything. That’s what keeps me going. Knowing that this studio is changing lives, inside and out, means more than I can even put into words.
PPRG: What message and impact do you hope to share to the broader community through It Figures Philly?
Hallie: That taking care of yourself is not selfish—it’s necessary. You don’t have to “get fit” before walking into a studio. You are worthy of this space exactly as you are, and when you prioritize your well-being, everything else starts to shift for the better. We want every woman who walks through our doors to know: you belong here, and we’ve got your back.
PPRG: Beyond the gym, how does It Figures Philly engage with the broader Philadelphia community?
Hallie: We love collaborating with local women-owned businesses through vendor events, pop-ups, and community fundraisers. We host free workshops and bring awareness to causes that matter to our members. It’s not just about building muscles—it’s about building connection.
PPRG: What do you see for the future of It Figures Philly?
Hallie: Expansion—and big impact. We’re just getting started. I see more studios in the future—Center City, Bucks County, and beyond. But no matter how much we grow, our mission stays the same: To create spaces where women feel strong, confident, and supported. We’re building something that matters—and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s next.
Inspired by community and the importance of self care, Murphy is able to impact women throughout Philadelphia with It Figures Philly. It is so amazing to see a space where women can feel supported and uplifted through health and wellness. To learn more about It Figures Philly and the programs they offer, follow their Instagram account, @ItFiguresPhilly or visit their website, ItFiguresPhilly.com.
