Amii Haughan, owner of R.W.A Studios on Nelson Street in Denton Holme, has revealed exciting plans to launch a brand-new women-only gym in Carlisle.

After more than three years of operating at full capacity, inside the one-room studio space, Amii says demand from local women has made the next step clear.

Coaching at R.W.A Studios. (Image: Supplied)

To move forward with the project, Amii needs 500 sign-ups to demonstrate demand. Already, 250 women have registered since the launch in November 2025.

She said: “That number is our proof. It shows that Carlisle really wants this. Once we hit 500, we can push ahead with the plans.”

The proposed gym would be located in a completely new building elsewhere in Carlisle, though the exact site is being kept under wraps until funding and contracts are secured.

Low light at R.W.A Studios for confidence. (Image: Supplied)

Designed entirely with women in mind, the gym will feature top-quality equipment, a calm black-and-pink colour scheme, and thoughtful layout choices to reduce anxiety.

Amii, who has worked in various gyms throughout her career, explained: “There’ll be no harsh spotlights, no awkward layouts. Even little things like not having lights directly over machines where people might feel uncomfortable have been thought about.”

Changing rooms will consist of individual cubicles rather than shared spaces, and every machine will include QR codes linking to video demonstrations.

Coaching at R.W.A Studios. (Image: Supplied)

Amii added: “You won’t have to talk to anyone if you don’t want to. You can come in, scan the machine and follow along. It’s about making the gym feel safe and welcoming.”

The gym is also planned to operate 24 hours a day and will be located in a well-lit, accessible area with parking and public transport links.

Safety and accessibility have been key priorities, particularly as R.W.A Studios works closely with women supported by domestic abuse charities.

Memberships are currently available to reserve, with no payment required until the gym officially opens. Options include gym-only, classes-only, or a combined membership and capacity will be capped at around 1,000 members.

Inside R.W.A Studios. (Image: Supplied)

Amii, who has worked in fitness for over a decade and trained clients across the UK and in Dubai, says the project is the culmination of years of listening to women’s experiences in traditional gyms.

“I’ve worked in so many gyms, and I know what women don’t like about them,” she said. “This is about fixing all of that.”

“This is just step one,” she added.

“What we’re building after this is even bigger – but for now, I just need people to trust me with this first step.”

Updates are shared regularly via R.W.A Studios Instagram page here: https://www.instagram.com/r.w.a_carlisle/.