A fitness instructor who encourages “social sweating” is opening a reformer Pilates studio.
Michelle Fitzmaurice, managing director of Bounce Fit Body, is known in the Rutland and Stamford areas for her fun, resistance-based workouts, including trampoline fitness and boxing.
Now the 42-year-old has opened a reformer Pilates studio called ‘Bed’ in The Maltings on Mill Street, Oakham, and is adding a new workout to her roster of classes.
She said: “I’m really passionate about something called Social Sweat and creating a fun environment where people can exercise.”
Michelle, a mum-of-two, added: “Reformer Pilates is definitely becoming more popular in London and bigger cities and lots of people are aware of it.”
“It’s exciting to bring it to our hometown.”
Reformer Pilates uses a special piece of equipment called a reformer bed, which incorporates springs, ropes and pulleys to create resistance.
Suitable for all ages, it can help tone, shape, strengthen and even rehabilitate.
For Michelle, who often listens to music while working out, making exercise enjoyable is a top priority.
“I think the most important thing is to do exercise that you enjoy,” she said.
“If it’s not fun, you won’t continue and you won’t see the benefits.
“Exercise is not just about the body, it’s about the mind, so it has to be fun.”
Michelle first started her exercise classes in Stamford in 2016 and added OrCam a few years later, and the business has continued to grow.
Since announcing plans for the new studio, Michelle has received a “phenomenal” response from both existing clients and people looking to try something new.
Michelle has been searching for a permanent home for her fitness business for some time and continues to search for a second location in Stamford.
The Oakham studio, which is due to open in August, will have five beds and be open seven days a week, with classes taught by Michelle and two other instructors.
For more information, check out @bedoakham or Michelle’s page on Instagram @fitzbounce.
Have you tried Reformer Pilates? What did you think?
