Female-owned Pilates business in Rugby wins award
A female-owned Pilates business in Rugby has won an award.
Shape It Up Pilates, in Churchside Arcade, is celebrating a public vote that has crowned it Wellness Business of the Year at My Local Awards 2026.
Founded by Anne Simonsen, the independent studio marks ten years in the town centre this year, with a community built around small classes, personal attention and helping people build confidence in their bodies, especially after being injured or time away from exercise.
Anne said: “Our teachers deserve a huge part of this recognition.
"They take time to get to know people, remember what they're working towards and adapt exercises so everyone can get the most from their class. Their care, knowledge and encouragement make such a difference.”
Anne started teaching Pilates in village halls around Rugby in 2004 before opening the Churchside Arcade studio in 2016.
Shape It Up offers Mat Pilates, Springboard Pilates and circuits, with classes limited to 12 people for Mat and seven for Springboard.
Its members include people wanting to maintain an active lifestyle, alongside those rebuilding confidence after time away from exercise or managing stiffness and everyday niggles.
Anne added: “We know the people who come through our doors. We know who loves walking, who's worried about their back and who needs a little encouragement to try something more challenging.
"Small classes give us time to notice those things and adapt exercises to the person in front of us. We want people to feel they're making progress and that someone is paying attention."
“Thank you to all of our members, those who voted for us and our fabulous teaching team.”