Award-winning fitness business Northants Pilates was started by Karen Grinter in November 1997. The business quickly became embedded in Northants Cricket after an invitation from Kirk Russell, Northants then England physio, and Karen regularly taught members of the team, including Australian opening batsman Matthew Haydon, England spin bowler Graeme Swann and Monty Panesar alongside a growing number of her own clients.
Karen created the first fully equipped pilates studio in the county within the Indoor Cricket School and still has clients now who joined Karen in 1997 and early 1998 and who are continuing to reap the rewards of coming to our classes.
Northants Pilates works with a network of health professionals, surgeons, GPs, physios and osteopaths who all refer clients.
Karen said:
“Sitting in clinic with them, gaining understanding of the patient’s journey and even watching surgery has ensured we stay up to date with our knowledge of the latest medical treatments which mesh with our teaching practice – all to benefit our clients. And when our expertise isn’t enough, we make sure our clients know who can help them best and will integrate professional advice into their sessions.”
The incredible loyalty of its clients allowed Northants Pilates to thrive during lockdown and saw it rewarded with a Rose of Northamptonshire Award after being nominated by clients for its commitment to keeping classes going and keeping as many people as possible active and healthy. Like most businesses the studio adapted by moving classes online, but also maintained very high standards by sticking with small classes. Using professional contacts, Northants Pilates ran health webinars during lockdown and continue to do so, whilst raising money for local charities.
During the first year of Covid Northants Pilates raised in excess of £1,600 for the Hope Centre running sessions on subjects such as ‘Looking after your spine in lockdown’ and ‘HRT and the menopause’ with several women’s health experts including Dr Naomi Potter – who has just co-authored Menopausing with Davina McCall. For just £2.50 clients have had direct access to a specialist in their field, from where they can then approach their own GPs for more help.
Earlier this year, a weekend of classes was held to raise money for Ukraine, amassing more than £2,400.
Northants Pilates is now a family business. Karen’s son Daniel is gradually taking over the business and will continue to deliver excellent tuition and expand its services.
For more information, contact Karen on 07713 077139.
