Edinburgh fitness firm boss urges more support for sector

The entrepreneur behind a business helping women’s physical and mental health has called for more government support while there is no confirmed reopening date for indoor gyms – saying “no-one’s listening” to the concerns of the industry.

'People are really struggling – and no-one’s listening,' Adams says. Picture: Gavin Hill Photography.

Claire Adams told Scotland on Sunday that she had been aiming to expand, but instead has lost half her client base, had to let a staff member go, and is concerned about the future.

She launched Leith-based Claire Adams Total Health five years ago and in March had 155 active paying clients and secured a property to expand and open the first women’s-only holistic facility in Edinburgh, adding staff. She was then looking to open more sites.

She launched her business five years ago - and had been hoping to expand. Picture: Gavin Hill Photography.

However, she said it is “disappointing” to be among the health and leisure firms with no information from the Scottish Government about reopening – but still with financial outgoings. As for how long the firm can last as things stand, she said not long, “because every week we’re losing business, and it’s not because the clients don’t want to keep supporting us, it’s just the fact that they’re not getting an in-person service”.

She can take a maximum of five people in her studio, easily able to follow distancing rules, and feels it should be looked at separately to major fitness chains. Adams also echoed comments made by peers that it is frustrating to not be able to reopen when, say, bars and restaurants can – and with none of the additional funding required to stay afloat.

“We’re just wanting some extra support. We’re helping the health of the nation and we’re changing people’s lives – I think that gets really forgotten about,” she said. “As long as we can meet all the policies and procedures, why can’t we open? People are really struggling – and no-one’s listening.”

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