Methil gym owners hand over the reins

However, now the couple have decided to step down from running Jax Health Club in Methil and hand over the reins for a new chapter at the gym.

Louise was already a well-known face on the fitness scene – having run classes at village and community halls for more than nearly 15 years – when the pair decided to take the plunge and open their own place in the former Methil Bowling Club building on Wellesley Road. It became a real family affair, with daughters Claire and Gemma working at the gym throughout their teenage years, with both later taking many classes over the years. ‘

But it was not all blood, sweat and tears, with activities such as party nights, hillwalking outings and charity cycle rides on the agenda – as was raising money for charity.

The club has donated around £140,000 to causes such as Cancer Research, Maggie’s, Sick Kids Hospital in Edinburgh and Children in Need.

“We always chose a cause that was close to someone who used the gym,” Louise explained.

The couple felt the time had come for a change and are delighted that Jax is now in the hands of David Birrell.

“We’ve had so many great people with us over the years., It was a difficult decision to make but it has definitely been the right one. At the open day on Saturday there was a real buzz and so many new faces.”