A FITNESS instructor has moved her company into the centre of Darlington’s business community in a bid to encourage exercise in the workplace.

Michelle Ormrod has set up her pilates studio into a new site at Business Central Darlington.

Ms Ormrod launched her business in 2010, after working as a nurse and health visitor in the UK and New Zealand.

Her move to Business Central comes as she plans to grow the business further by providing access to Pilates within other companies based at the site.

“It was while working as a nurse and attending Pilates classes for myself that I had the idea to start my own business,” said Ms Ormrod.

“I realised that by combining my nursing skills and experience with Pilates techniques, that I could offer clients something a little different,” she added.

Ms Ormrod says she has been practicing Pilates for many years and following the birth of her two children, she began to see the specific health benefit it offers.

“Everyone moves differently but Pilates can be adapted to suit each individual and my background in nursing sits well with the advice I can offer," said Ms Ormrod.

“I love what I do, and find it interesting working with a broad range of clients of all ages which includes office workers, new mums and tradesmen, helping them to move more and move well," she added.

Vanessa Wood, centre manager at Business Central, said: “Business Central has welcomed a host of diverse businesses since opening in 2015, and with the already established onsite fitness studio combined with Michelle’s newly opened Pilates studio it certainly helps us to promote a healthy work-life balance for the businesses based here.”

Mrs Ormrod said: “The location of Business Central is ideal for me to expand my business and is easily accessible for my clients - it is a new centre with a great sense of community and we always receive a warm welcome from reception.

“Pilates may not be suitable for everyone but it can be perfect for those who often sit behind a desk so it’s great to offer this service within an established business centre," she added.

For more information about Michelle Ormrod Pilates, call 07986 511224 or email mail@mopilates.co.uk.