Innovation

While COVID restrictions forced gyms and studios around the world to close during the pandemic, Clarissa Karunaratne, founder of Sweat With Riss, sought a creative way to provide clients with opportunities to practice yoga and focus on prioritizing their physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. Clarissa switched from teaching classes in Los Angeles's powerhouse studios to teaching classes online. “The energy in those online classes paralleled that in the studios and that was when I knew there needed to be a platform where I can cultivate this same energy and make my classes accessible at any time, and anywhere.”

Inspiration

Growing up in the heart of Los Angeles, Clarissa Karunaratne flourished in the limelight. With the hopes of one day becoming an actress, Clarissa cherished being able to create experiences and long-lasting memories for her community while onstage. From pursuing theater in her youth to being Pep Squad Captain of her high school cheer team to graduating from USC with a major in International Relations and Global Business, passion and high performance have been woven throughout every aspect of her life.

Since graduating, Clarissa has continued to pursue superior performance, powerful movement, mindfulness, and passion! “I find the parallels between the two [theater and fitness] to be very similar…Now as a fitness instructor and yoga teacher, I find the same excitement just in a different role! It all comes down to cultivating community – and I love being part of it. The community is constant whether it’s stage lights to Friday night lights or dim studio lights.”

When the pandemic hit in 2020, studio doors closed and communities were left without an outlet to maintain their fitness routines. As COVID-19 cases continued to surge over the next few years, communities' physical and mental health continued to decline. Clarissa was inspired to create a unique platform that rivaled in-studio experiences, allowing her community to come together once more in a virtual environment. Clarissa made Sweat With Riss in January 2021. She put a lot of emphasis on finding your edge and owning your power.

Overall impact

Prior to the pandemic, common barriers to exercise often consisted of long commutes and professional and social obligations, in addition to the high fees associated with gym and studio memberships. The pandemic has since disrupted fitness activities around the globe and led to an industry-wide shift towards hybrid wellness practices. As a virtual platform, Sweat With Riss gives clients access to an extensive range of classes that aim to strengthen both the body and the mind. And the goal? “To keep you moving, inspired, and mindful towards reaching your highest fitness potential on and off the mat!"

Sweat With Riss offers classes ranging from 5 minutes to 30 minutes in length, allowing clients with demanding schedules the flexibility to squeeze in either a quick yoga session or a more extensive workout. Yoga, stretch, sculpt, banded exercises, weighted classes, bodyweight classes, meditations, and foundational alignment tutorials are available, catering to a wide audience with various skill levels and fitness aspirations. SWR has given communities the chance to focus once more on physical and mental health anytime, anywhere. Clients can join workouts via phone, laptop, or tablet. As a digital service, SWR can be seamlessly integrated into one’s daily routine, giving people the time and capability to achieve their short and long-term health goals. As a result, the company has seen immense expansion, reaching over 50 participants in every class with clients located in cities across the globe, from Los Angeles to London.

Business benefit

In addition to global expansion, Clarissa has partnered with industry leaders and incredible brands such as Nike, PINK, and Year of Ours, participating in various campaigns that align with their mission and her personal and professional values. Due to her contagious passion and energy, Clarissa has also cultivated a following of over 2,400 Instagram followers. This social media platform allows her to connect with her community directly and share additional fitness, health, and wellness best practices.“I am so proud of Sweat With Riss being the driving force behind my growth as an individual and as a pillar of health and wellness in my community. I am thrilled to see where it takes me next.”

Social and environmental benefit

As a result of the pandemic, people have started viewing their health through a more holistic lens. Committing to a workout, whether an energetic beat-bumping sculpt class or a restorative peaceful meditation, promotes healthy lifestyle habits and allows clients to practice mindfulness during a time that is wrought with change. “It is the best feeling in the world when my clients travel and send me pictures of their laptops with an SWR class on their screen! You truly can move your body anywhere. Finding consistency in your wellness routine is something I believe has been game-changing in my life and I want others to experience those same positive lifestyle shifts - and SWR is meant to do just that!”

Interview

Clarissa Karunaratne, Founder