Swan Grace Pilates opened in November last year and was met with “overwhelming” support from the local community.

A Greenock entrepreneur, who opened the region’s first reformer pilates studio, after she accessed support from Business Gateway, has reached over 350 clients in the first three months.

Sobia White launched the business in November after identifying a gap in the local market for this specialised form of exercise, which focuses on strength, flexibility, and balance using a reformer machine.

Previously a sales professional, Ms White pursued her passion for fitness, qualifying as a spin instructor and later training in reformer Pilates. She opened Inverclyde’s first reformer Pilates studio, designed as an inclusive space for all abilities, where exercises are adapted to individual needs.

She received crucial support from Business Gateway during the studio’s inception. Business Gateway adviser Barbara Mennie provided guidance on marketing, human resources, and funding opportunities, including signposting a start-up grant from Inverclyde Council. Ms White also benefitted from Business Gateway webinars on topics like social media strategy and business planning.

In just three months, Swan Grace Pilates has attracted over 350 clients, ranging in age from 18 to over 60. The popularity of the classes has led Ms White to leave her corporate job and focus full-time on expanding the studio’s offerings.

Sobia White said: “I set out to build a studio that would attract a really varied demographic of clients, and I’m so pleased with the response. It’s a real privilege to bring something new to Cathcart Street.

“The support I’ve received from Barbara at Business Gateway has been amazing. She’s been with me all the way through my start-up journey, offering encouragement throughout the process. Her support has really kept me right in terms of legalities, grant support, and writing my business plan.”

Ms Mennie said: “Supporting Swan Grace Pilates from concept to reality has been very rewarding. Seeing Sobia receive such a positive reception is a testament to her passion and commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for her clients.”