Businessman John Craig to convert former TSB bank on Forres High Street into a gym offering a variety of exercise classes
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A LOCAL businessman is banking on his new venture - a fitness studio in the centre of town - having a positive impact on the community.
Traditional Shotokan Karate teacher, John Craig, has planning permission to convert the former TSB building at 156 High Street into a centre for wellbeing, featuring a variety of exercise classes run by himself and existing community clubs.
He said: “Being granted planning consent is a very positive move from Moray Council to allow a greater mix of businesses on High Street, as opposed to most fitness studios which tend to be allocated outside the town centre.
“The bank has a large central floor space, with only a teller desk to be removed.
“This allows for an area of around 90 square metres with plenty of nearby parking and easy access.”
He added: “But I definitely will not be trying to move the massive safe!”
John plans to create a waiting area for parents collecting children, with a shoes and coat area.
The gym will also have increased fire protection, a jigsaw matted floor area, a mixture of lighting options, separate toilets, air conditioning and a changing area.
He added: “In the future, additional rooms might be opened up for sport/remedial massage, stretching or private training.
“There is potential to have a shower fitted in the future too.”
John will run Traditional Shotokan Karate sessions from beginner to advanced grades for children and adults, adult fitness classes and private karate classes for up to two attendees at a time.
He said: “I also hope to hire out to local clubs who require floor space but my intention is for a health and wellbeing approach.
“I would like to work with clubs that train on bare feet, which is good for the mind and energy levels.
“These include yoga, pilates and tai chi, for example.
“There should be no intense classes and a restriction on noise levels means no amplified speakers.”
John hopes to host at least four one-hour classes per day.
Available slots for classes are currently from 9am to 8pm, Monday to Saturday.
The studio will initially employ two members of staff and John hopes to open up as soon as possible.
He finished: “It depends if there is interest from other clubs taking on regular slots.
“Realistically, it will likely happen in a couple of months.”
For more information email john@karateacademyscotland.com or karateacademyscotland@gmail.com, visit Karate Academy Scotland on Facebook or call John on 07787812214.
