A fitness studio designed for personal trainers has opened in Epping, Essex.

Privately funded by owners Helen Sharpless and Bob Allen, Functional Fitness enjoys a high street location and includes a 15-station gym equipped by Star Trac, as well as a padded area dedicated to martial arts training.

Sharpless said the facility has been well received by local personal trainers who can rent time slots at the studio, because many have resorted to training their clients outdoors because they find the costs of using health club chains prohibitive.

The studio caters for clients of all abilities, specialising in martial arts and rehabilitation.

Personal training sessions cost an average of £35 per session, but discounts are available for block bookings.