Fashion , health & beauty
Climbing the fitness ladder
After all the indulgence and relaxation of the festive period , thoughts often turn to New Year resolutions – and on most people ’ s list will be getting fit .
If you ’ re looking for help on that front , then one of the bestequipped gyms on the Island can be found in Cowes . In Shape Fitness Studio has dedicated rooms for cardiovascular machines , resistance training and weights , all in well-designed contemporary surroundings . Members range in age from 16 to 80 years , male and female , and there is a flexible membership system starting from a £ 5 single visit fee to weekly , monthly or annual plans .
You ’ re not left on your own , either , as a team of expert instructors can help devise a tailored training plan to suit your age and fitness levels and your goals . There ’ s a particular buzz in the gym at the moment around a new piece of kit , The Jacob ’ s Ladder , which enables you to continuously climb . It comes with various mountain challenges such as
Snowdon at 3560 feet and Ben Nevis at 4409 feet . In Shape also stocks Time 4 nutrition products as well as making up post-workout shakes to order . And for a post-exercise glow , there ’ s a stand-up sunbed available . For more details visit www . inshapeiow . co . uk or call 01983 242222
Cutting edge business
When hairdresser Charlotte Brown launched her own little salon 15 years ago , she could never have dreamed how far she would go .
These days , Charlotte ’ s Academy has 10 staff and offers a whole range of beauty salon treatments as well as expert hair cutting and colouring . The business started really expanding after six years , when it moved to much larger premises at its current salon in Birmingham Road , Cowes . Charlotte , who qualified with a Master Colourist with top hair brand Wella , is particularly hot on staff training , making sure all her hairdressers attend regular courses in London as well as in the salon .
It means that as well as being ultra-professional , they ’ re always at the cutting edge of the latest trends – like the current one for hair contouring – a method of colouring designed to enhance the client ’ s best facial features . “ I love my job and couldn ’ t imagine doing anything else ” says Charlotte . “ It ’ s so nice to be able to transform people and help make them feel good about themselves ” Find Charlotte ’ s Academy at 9 Birmingham Road , Cowes or call 01983 200960 . www . visitilife . com 99