{"id":508016,"date":"2026-04-02T00:29:16","date_gmt":"2026-04-02T00:29:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/508016\/"},"modified":"2026-04-02T00:29:16","modified_gmt":"2026-04-02T00:29:16","slug":"owner-of-female-only-gym-talks-gymtimidation-and-creating-a-comforting-environment-blog-preston","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/508016\/","title":{"rendered":"Owner of female-only gym talks gymtimidation and creating a comforting environment \u2013 Blog Preston"},"content":{"rendered":"

Her bespoke facility offers something new for women in Preston, as it is one of only two women-only gyms in the area.<\/p>\n

With over 400 members, the gym hosts weekly classes, run clubs, walk clubs, and social events. But for Freya, it represents far more than just a place to exercise.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was a bit scared when opening a female-only space,\u201d she said. \u201cI knew I was cutting off 50 per cent of my potential clients. But from training women and listening to their experiences, I knew this space was needed.\u201d<\/p>\n

She explained that the environment has encouraged members to step outside their comfort zones.<\/p>\n

\"FreyaInside FemaleBodyWorkouts at Barton<\/p>\n

She said: \u201cSince coming here, the space has felt much more inclusive. It enables women to try exercises where they might not in a mixed sex environment.<\/p>\n

\u201cReligously, women come here and can taken off their headscarf which they wouldnt have that option and that is really powerful to us.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p>\n

For many members, the impact is deeply personal. Becky Platt, one of Freya\u2019s employees, shared how the gym has transformed her mum\u2019s relationship with fitness.<\/p>\n

Becky said: \u201cMy mum has never set foot in a gym before until we opened this female only gym.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe is recognised as someone who is nearly 60, wanted to do strength training and didnt know where to start.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you came in to the gym and you were nervous we would make sure you have all the support you need, so then you feel confident to do it on your own.\u201d<\/p>\n

\"\"The gym contains areas including self affirming quotes Pic: Blog Preston<\/p>\n

Freya\u2019s journey into fitness was shaped by her own challenges. While initially pursuing work as a nurse, she experienced disordered eating and a desire to become as small as possible. However, weight training shifted her mindset towards strength and wellbeing.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy main focus when starting my career was to educate women about health and fitness, but also how to properly fuel their bodies and move away from disordered eating,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think women are constantly being told to follow the latest diet trends. It\u2019s evolved from step aerobics in the 80s to strength training now being more accessible\u2014but ultimately, it\u2019s about encouraging women to do what\u2019s right for them.\u201d<\/p>\n

Eleanor Turner, another employee, highlighted the strong sense of community within the gym.<\/p>\n

\u201cI feel a lot more confident in this space. There\u2019s no stress about equipment being unavailable, people greet each other, and genuine friendships are formed.\u201d<\/p>\n

The gym also hosts social events, including retreats and nights out, helping to build a sense of connection beyond fitness.<\/p>\n

Since starting FemaleBodyWorkouts, Freya says her mission has remained clear: \u201cTo provide a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment.\u201d<\/p>\n

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