Local fitness business gains national recognition following Worcestershire County Council support.

A Malvern personal training business that received support from Worcestershire County Council's Elevate Worcestershire Grant programme is celebrating national recognition after being shortlisted for a prestigious fitness industry award.

Blissfit Personal Training, founded by Bronwyn Durand, used grant funding to invest in specialist equipment for its dedicated private gym in Malvern, helping the business expand its services and support a growing client base. The business has recently been shortlisted in the Personal Trainer of the Year category at the National Fitness Awards, recognising its success and impact within the local community.

Bronwyn was introduced to the Elevate Worcestershire Grant through the Worcestershire Growth Hub while exploring options for securing dedicated premises to support the next stage of her business growth.

Bronwyn Durand, Founder of Blissfit, said: "I first approached the Worcestershire Growth Hub while exploring options for securing a dedicated premises for the next stage of my business growth. During those conversations, the team introduced me to Worcestershire County Council's Elevate Worcestershire Grant and provided all the information and links I needed to apply.

"The grant enabled me to invest in the specialist equipment needed for the gym alongside a bank loan and personal savings. It allowed me to strategically buy the items that best served the range of clients I work with, and it has been working beautifully."

Today, Blissfit provides one-to-one personal training and small group strength and conditioning sessions in a welcoming environment designed for people of all ages and abilities, from complete beginners to experienced athletes.

A particular focus for the business is supporting older adults to stay active, independent and confident. Alongside women-only and mixed group sessions, Blissfit runs a dedicated Masters Group for people aged 70 and over, helping participants improve strength, balance and agility while building confidence in what their bodies can achieve.

The business has also developed a strong community spirit, with clients encouraged to support one another and celebrate individual progress in a positive and inclusive environment.

Councillor Adam Kent, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member with Responsibility for Finance, Corporate Services and Business at Worcestershire County Council, said: "Blissfit Personal Training is a fantastic example of how Worcestershire businesses can use council support to invest, grow and make a positive difference in their communities. The Elevate Worcestershire Grant helped Bronwyn develop her business and expand the services available to local residents, and it's great to see that success recognised nationally through this award nomination. We wish her every success for the future."

With demand continuing to grow and some sessions already operating waiting lists, Bronwyn is now exploring ways to increase capacity and help even more Worcestershire residents improve their health, fitness and wellbeing.

Businesses looking to invest, grow or take the next step in their development can find out more about the support available through the Worcestershire Growth Hub via their website.