A Scottish actor and fight coach has unveiled a new gym concept based in a Glasgow suburb, called BXNG.
The gym, due to open in Milngavie in August, will offer one to one boxing training, small group fitness classes as well as state-of-the-art equipment.
To coincide with the launch, founder Paul Donnelly - Ronnie Sinclair in Outlander - will also unveil a new Scottish charity called In Your Corner.
The charity is the brainchild of Mr Donnelly and his wife Natalia Celino and it will aim to offer free fitness classes and personalised training programmes for victims of domestic abuse and young people suffering with mental health issues such as anxiety and bullying.
In Your Corner will work hand in hand with charities including Women’s Aid, Back Onside to identify individuals who would benefit from expert training from the BXNG coaching team.
The actor said: “As a result of the pandemic mental health issues and cases of domestic abuse are the highest on record.
"I want to ensure the new gym offers a safe and inspiring space for people looking to get into fitness and build both confidence and self-esteem.
"Having trained professional fight scenes and actors for many years I understand the empowering impact regular training can bring to an individual and feel passionate about making my gym accessible for everyone and particularly for vulnerable groups and individuals.”
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Mr Donnelly, best known for his recent roles in Outlander and The Nest, has built a successful career playing hard men roles in films such as The Wee Man, Killing Escobar and Bronson and alongside acting he choreographs fight scenes and stunts.
He continued: “Boxing has given me so much in my career and has opened a lot of doors and I wanted to give something back and bring a new concept to the Scottish fitness industry. We are gearing up to launch and are working tirelessly behind the scenes to be ready to open our doors in August.
“Given that we will be welcoming people who may feel vulnerable and intimidated about training in a gym environment we are committed to creating an ethos at BXNG that is welcoming, fun and inclusive.”
Angela Devine, chief executive of Glasgow Women’s Aid, said: “Glasgow Women’s Aid is very pleased to be working alongside Paul, In Your Corner and BXNG gym to provide safe spaces for our survivors to exercise, learn self-defence, and feel safe doing so. It’s a great initiative and will benefit so many.”
Libby Emmerson, founder of Back Onside, said: “Back Onside is excited and looking forward to a great partnership with In Your Corner which can provide a safe place to exercise and workout for our clients who are struggling with their mental health and in need of somewhere to exercise. Providing a complimentary service will be a huge aid for those who are struggling financially right now.”
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