A gym owner has set himself a goal of opening two more sites in the region this year - despite stiff competition from budget chains muscling their way into Norfolk.
It is coming up to one year since NR Health and Fitness Club took over the former Fitness 2000 gym in Great Yarmouth.
The site, in Southtown Road, is one of six NR gym's across Norfolk and Suffolk and the firm is owned by Nathan Gostling.
But following its Yarmouth takeover, the low-budget chain The Gym Group has since opened in Pasteur Road and next month Pure Gym is also set to open nearby.
Mr Gostling said it was "tough" as the business lost about 10% of members when the Gym Group opened back in October.
But despite this, NR Health and Fitness is "holding its own" and the 32-year-old is trying to encourage more people to continue supporting small and independent gyms.
Mr Gostling, from Mattishall, said: "When you have competitors like that, it's really tough.
"Ultimately, they can close down gyms. They really hurt the local independents.
"So at NR Health and Fitness we are making sure we add value, and quality and differentiate ourselves from these budget gyms.
"The Gym Group opening did hit us. But we are happy with how we have held our own, especially at a time when money is tight."
So far this year, the Southtown Road gym has seen a brand new functional area installed and Mr Gostling said they are planning more revamps throughout the year.
And from February 1, they will also introduce new Les Mills fitness classes.
Mr Gostling added: "We have invested a hell of a lot to get the gym up to the NR standard.
"And it shows because our members are staying loyal to us. They see the value in our services.
"There will also be more exciting changes coming.
"I just want to encourage people to support their local and independent gyms in Great Yarmouth."
The gym owner said has also set himself a personal goal of opening two more gyms in Norfolk or Suffolk in 2023.
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