New community-first gym aims to 'empower' women of Preston - opening date revealed
A new women-only gym is opening in Preston, aiming to help local women make lasting friendships and improve their fitness.
Owned by Emma McGarvey, 29, and Lewis Brown, 30, the new ‘community-first’ gym, named Valkyrie Fitness, will be located on Ashton Business Park and will focus on empowering women to be ‘confident’ and ‘happy’.
The Valkyrie team told the LEP: “We are focused on building a community full of strength and positivity that uplifts our Valkyries to be their best self, with no judgement or unwanted attention.
“We think this approach will bring a safe and welcoming space to the women of Preston where they can feel confident in themselves, make lasting friendships with local women, keep consistent and motivated, and of course improve their physical and mental health.”
The gym will have a ‘zero tolerance policy for negativity’ and aims to tackle the traditional barriers women may face when looking for places to train. Memberships will be subject to application with Valkyrie aiming to be an ‘empowering space for women of all sizes, ages, and experience’.
The team said: ”Many women try a commercial gym and don’t know where to start or where to finish, leading to eventual demotivation, poor results, wasted time and money, and then quitting.
“One thing we offer is structure and support to keep the momentum. Our gym software partner has tracking and ‘streak’ features which have proven very effective in ensuring members don’t lose their streak and have something to work towards.
“We also have full visibility through the software so we can keep the momentum or reach out to anyone who may have slowed down in attendance to give some support.”
Facilities at Valkyrie will include brand-new gym equipment, including brands like Concept2, Mira Fit, and Origin Fitness, as well as a dedicated weigh-in room with Inbody scales. The equipment has been ‘tactically selected’ by Emma and Lewis to ensure it helps members ‘get the most out of their sessions whilst also reducing risk of injury’.
A host of fitness classes will also be available, including group classes, Pilates and personal training, as well as unique monthly sessions.
Valkyrie Fitness will officially open for training and classes on Monday, March 30, with a grand opening event taking place on Saturday, March 28.
The launch party will begin at 5.00pm and will feature prosecco, pizza and a raffle. You can register your interest here.