meet the team

From Inspiration to Passion – My Journey with The Little Gym

Before founding the very first The Little Gym in Germany, my path led me through a classic corporate career in media and online marketing. But after the birth of my two children, Niya (8) and Leo (7), I felt a strong desire for change – I wanted to do something meaningful, something that truly aligned with my heart.

Sports have always played a central role in my life, and the dream of becoming self-employed had been with me for a long time. Then came the moment that changed everything: during the Easter holidays, Niya and Leo attended a trial class at The Little Gym in Sofia, Bulgaria.

Back in Cologne, we had tried nearly every kind of kids’ activity – from baby music classes to toddler gymnastics, martial arts, and dance. But I had never seen my children so inspired and energized as they were after that one class. I watched from the parents’ lounge, cappuccino in hand, as they were guided with genuine warmth by enthusiastic instructors, visibly progressing and beaming with pride. Even weeks later, they were still talking about it.

It wasn’t just the teaching approach that won me over – it was the entire atmosphere: modern, international, welcoming. A place where not only children, but entire families feel at home.

In that moment, I knew: I have to bring this to Germany.
When I found out that The Little Gym was a franchise and they were looking for their first partner in Germany, it all started falling into place.

After a long search for the right location, a major renovation, extensive training, and yes – a global pandemic just before opening – I finally made my dream a reality in 2020. Since then, I’ve had the joy of helping hundreds of children in Cologne fall in love with movement – and giving families a warm, welcoming space to connect and grow.

The next natural step? Expanding to Düsseldorf.
We’re opening in Autumn 2025 in Düsseldorf-Pempelfort, and my team and I would be thrilled if you and your family joined us on this exciting journey.

Warmly,
Mira
Owner, The Little Gym Cologne & Düsseldorf