One Shrewsbury couple and their dog launch gym venture
A Shropshire husband and wife team have launched a new business – complete with their dog on reception.
Emma and Chris Brearley, of Hodnet, have set up a gym in Lancaster Road, Shrewsbury.
Members of Muscle Mania can work up a sweat in the studio, watched over by the couple's friendly Staffordshire bull terrier, Ollie, who is a favourite with members.
Chris said: "He's not allowed in the actual gym, he's a big softie and he loves people."
Emma and Chris worked flat out to get the gym open in time for new year and have two other businesses as well.
Chris, 46, said: "We run an oven cleaning business and Emma has a domestic cleaning business. So it's been an incredibly stressful time but it's all been worth it in the end."
The gym has a fully equipped cardio, weights zone, and dance studios, but Emma and Chris started off with just a warehouse.
Chris said: "The opportunity came up and we had a vision, customers are gobsmacked when they come in."
The Brearleys worked through Christmas and new year with hardly any help from builders.
Chris said: "Emma made me take Christmas Day off and we were there at half past six in the morning on Boxing Day. We didn't leave till just before midnight on New Year's Eve."
Thankfully Chris and Emma have a good business relationship, with Emma managing their other companies during the day.
The couple, who do not have children, are hoping members will be up for the wide range of classes available.
Chris said: "We're doing a good range so people have a choice. I know that Muscle Mania might give the impression that all we want are bodybuilders, but it couldn't be further from the truth."
Chris has worked in gyms all his life and is passionate about keeping fit.
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