The idea of lots of people in a sweaty gym might be off-putting to some, particularly after the Covid-19 crisis.

Ipswich Star: Kelly Towneley believes now is the perfect time to start a gym, even after the coronavirus crisis. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNKelly Towneley believes now is the perfect time to start a gym, even after the coronavirus crisis. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

But Kelly Townley hopes her new boutique-style exercise space will lift spirits after lockdown - because it allows people to book the entire gym to themselves, to work out on their own.

The 37-year-old personal trainer was sat at home bored during the coronavirus shutdown when she decided to make her long-term dream of running her own gym - Kelly Townley Fitness - a reality.

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With so much continuing anxiety about Covid-19, it might seem like a fairly weighty challenge.

Ipswich Star: Kelly Townley hopes people will feel less pressured when working out in her gym. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNKelly Townley hopes people will feel less pressured when working out in her gym. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

But Kelly, who has taken over an 800sq ft unit at Clopton Park, near Woodbridge, said: “It’s the perfect time to do it.

“I don’t see it as a barrier. There’s nothing to stop me doing the same as everyone else.

“Now everyone is going back to work, to my mind this is a fresh start. People are looking at a different way of life.”

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Ipswich Star: Kelly Townley will open the new gym on Saturday, July 25. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNKelly Townley will open the new gym on Saturday, July 25. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Mrs Townley says she is “trying to make it as personal as possible”, adding: “That’s what it’s all about - trying to get people in who wouldn’t usually go to a gym.”

As such, the luxury gym with modern weightlifting and cardio equipment is only open certain times of the day for dedicated gym use - usually 7am to 9am (except on Wednesdays) and noon until 3pm on weekdays, and 9am to noon on Sundays.

People also have to book slots in advance, when they will have the exercise floor to themselves.

The rest of the time is used for personal training sessions.

Ipswich Star: Kelly Townley has set up her own gym at Clopton Park. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNKelly Townley has set up her own gym at Clopton Park. Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

“People won’t feel like they’re being looked at by others,” Kelly said.

Kelly, who is married with one step-son, said she became motivated to work as a personal trainer after herself losing 4st through a fitness regime several years ago.

“I just love helping people,” she said. “They come to me with their story and what they want to change.

“Being a little bit older than a lot of personal trainers, I’ve lived life and have a bit of experience behind me.

“I love seeing the outcomes of how it makes people feel. It’s the best feeling in the world, when everyone is happy with the way they look and feel.”

Prices start at £5 a visit for £30 a month.

For more information, visit her website.