James Corbett has opened a new semi-private personal training gym on Kilmarnock Road, below the former Ayrshire Hospice shop.
After trying several jobs, James found work at a gym in Clydebank. Later, he was offered the chance to open his own gym in Mauchline.
Now, Mauchline Barbell Club is welcoming new clients.
James said, “I’ve been lifting weights since I was about 14. I have also held coaching roles, which helped me gain experience working with people.”
He added, “After university, I lost interest in engineering. I was between jobs when I read a book about barbell training. That sparked my interest in health and fitness. I knew this was what I wanted to do.”
James initially planned to take over the old charity shop, but it did not work out. Then, in February, he learned the space below the former Ayrshire Hospice shop became available. He jumped at the opportunity.
James builds his gym around strong relationships with clients. He focuses on giving them the tools they need and holding them accountable for their goals.
A father of two, James opened the gym with his partner, Bryony. He wants to be approachable and believes the key to success lies in the relationships he forms.
“It took some time to get the gym ready,” James said. “Most of the equipment I had stored away for a while because I always planned to open a place like this.”
“This gym is not for casual use. It’s a place to get coached and stay accountable for the goals we set. We focus on strength training, building resilience, and teaching people not to fear new challenges.”
He continued, “Success will come from trust. I need to trust my clients, and they need to trust me.”
Living nearby in Stair, James is excited to offer something different to the town.
“It’s great to bring this kind of gym to Mauchline. There isn’t anything like it here,” he said.
James explained that coaching starts as soon as someone contacts the gym. “Whether they join or buy a membership is up to them. I’m happy for anyone to reach out and see if this journey is right for them.”
