A Harrogate gym that has helped independent fitness professionals build sustainable businesses has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award.
Fitness Garage has reached the final of the Gym Innovation of the Year category at the 2026 National Fitness Awards, organised by Script Events.
The business was established by Andy Gardner and Steve Henwood in 2017.
Rather than selling traditional gym memberships or charging trainers a substantial fixed monthly rent, Fitness Garage allows independent personal trainers and class teachers to book professional gym and studio space by the hour.
Trainers retain control of their clients, income and working patterns, while only paying for the facility when they are earning.
The model was developed in response to the financial pressures faced by independent trainers. Fitness Garage has now supported more than 70 fitness professionals and currently provides space for more than 25 independent trainers and teachers.
During the past year, the facility hosted more than 8,000 booked personal training hours and 900 studio classes.
The independent businesses operating from Fitness Garage are estimated to generate more than £400,000 in combined annual income for trainers and teachers.
The former car garage has been developed into a professional personal training and studio facility.
Trainers book dedicated working areas, giving them reliable access to the equipment and space required for each client.
Fitness Garage also helps generate client enquiries, provides trainers with public profiles and marketing support, and offers prospective clients a consultation to identify the trainer or service most suited to their goals.
Co-founder Andy Gardner said:
“We wanted to create a model that gave independent trainers greater control and a realistic way to start and grow their businesses.
“The trainers are our clients, so we continually ask what would help them deliver a better service. The facility works because trainers can plan confidently, clients receive focused coaching and everyone only pays for what they actually use.
“Reaching the final is recognition of the professional community that has developed here. It shows that a small, independent Yorkshire facility can create an innovative and commercially sustainable alternative to the traditional gym model.”
The winners will be announced by Olympic medallist and presenter Gail Emms at the National Fitness Awards ceremony at The Athena in Leicester on Friday 27 November 2026.
Fitness Garage is based behind 117 East Parade in Harrogate.
Further information is available at:
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