PRECISION Pilates is opening a new Pilates, Reformer & Barre Studio in a former betting shop in Corsham town centre as the town comes out of lockdown.

The old William Hill betting shop in Abacus House in Newlands Road is now completely unrecognisable and has been transformed into a boutique studio offering Pilates and Barre classes from MondayMay 17.

Business owner and Pilates instructor Amber Edenbrow has spent the past 12 months preparing for the opening of the town centre studio.“We have undertaken a complete refurbishment of the Old William Hill betting shop, which has been fantastic as I have been able to adapt the space in a way which is essential for my business.

“We have a Covid plan to ensure our classes are as safe as possible whilst being able to enjoy the much needed social interaction with fellow attendees.

“For example, we’ve installed a new fresh air system that provides a constant supply of fresh air into the studio as well as restricted numbers participant numbers. The space provides a light, airy and calm environment in which to enjoy classes.”

Corsham town councillor Ray Le-Var said: “This exciting development will be beneficial to the town centre and local community, and will also encourage people from the surrounding area to visit Corsham."

The avid Pilates enthusiast added: “I am delighted that they are opening a studio in Corsham. I have been attending classes with Precision Pilates for many years.

“The lessons are fun and informative and have greatly improved my fitness and flexibility. Whilst the online classes weren’t an option for me, I can’t wait to get back to face-to-face classes and I have already booked my space.”

Precision Pilates isn’t a new business, Amber started teaching over four years ago at various locations throughout Wiltshire, and her loyal customer base has grown from there with clients coming from Corsham, Chippenham, Melksham, Colerne, Bradford-on-Avon, Yatton Keynell, Sutton Benger, surrounding villages and even Bath and Devizes.

Precision Pilates will offer Pilates Mat Classes, Beginner Pilates Mat classes, Barre Classes, Pilates Power Classes, 1:1 Pilates reformer sessions as well as Platinum Pilates Classes for Older Adult and classes for Teenagers. In addition to core classes, Amber also has Yoga, Mum and Baby Yoga and Baby Massage sessions at the studio.

Pilates is gaining in popularity across the country - the NHS website states “there is some evidence to suggest that Pilates can be helpful for people who have lower back pain and that regular Pilates practice can help with posture, muscle tone, balance and joint mobility. It can also relieve stress, tension and help with mental wellbeing.”

Amber Edenbrow said: “People are realising the many benefits of Pilates for both mind and body. We have seen an increase in our male clientele especially since more and more people have been working from home and now have more flexible working patterns.

“The reaction I’ve had from both clients and other businesspeople in Corsham has been overwhelmingly positive.

“I’m pleased we’ll be helping to attract more people to the town centre and keeping the high street alive. It’s great because the town council offer free car parking for two hours, so that’s an added bonus.”

Since the first lockdown last March, Precision Pilates has been offering daily classes online via Zoom.

Amber added: “Our clients have been completely amazing and truly dedicated to their Pilates practice during lockdown. Many have attended several classes per week because they have had the time to do so.

“Whilst most of our clients are desperate to get back to face-to-face classes some are enjoying the convenience of taking a class in the comfort of their own home.

“We have been overwhelmed by the wonderful feedback, so much so that we will be keeping some of our online classes alongside our new studio class timetable too.

“Even more exciting is that we will soon be launching our ‘on demand’ library of classes where anyone can download a class and take part at anytime, anywhere at their own leisure.”

All class details can be found on the studio's website www.precision-pilates.co.uk