Dancing their way to success

Kirstie and Rodney are pictured outside the new fitness studio.

Husband and wife team Kirstie Anderson and Rodney Jamieson opened the new facility under the name Sandwickhill Studios.

Following six months of offering online classes during the pandemic, Kirstie held her first class for adults at the new studios this month, with limited numbers due to current restrictions.

More classes will gradually be introduced in the studio while online classes are still running.

HIE’s £46,275 investment enabled the second phase of the project covering key infrastructure costs such as an upgrade of the carpark, interior design and branding as well as internal fixtures, equipment and furnishings.

The new studio provides a flexible community hub for all ages in the area and aims to create three new jobs over the next few years.

In 2009, Kirstie began teaching dance and fitness classes in community venues around Stornoway before leasing a small studio at the local golf club. With her background of dance and breadth of fitness qualifications, she is now able to offer a suitable, dedicated space for a range of classes she teaches each week.

It can also be used by drama clubs, dance residencies and yoga retreats.

During the summer months, the premises will provide a base for Rodney’s water-based activities such as surfing, snorkelling and stand-up paddle boarding.

SurfLewis has been operated by Rodney for more than 10 years, providing surfing lessons at beaches around the island. As an RNLI Lifeboat crew member for 13 years and with extensive knowledge of the coastline and beaches, he has an additional voluntary role in promoting water safety in schools and communities.

The new building has also been supported by the 2014-2020 Outer Hebrides LEADER programme as well as significant investment by both businesses.

John Macdonald, account manager at HIE’s Innse Gall team, said: “We are delighted to be supporting two ambitious local firms to develop the new studio, which is important for encouraging increased participation in leisure and healthy activities. As the business develops, it will create the potential to employ more people, further benefiting the local economy.”