Kim Stacey - Founder, Director and Head Coach at the newly opened Body Image Fitness
What inspired you to open Body Image Fitness in Heaton — was there a defining moment?
I started Body Image Fitness while renting space in other gyms, first in Jesmond, then Sandyford. It was a great way to grow and establish the business, but over time we outgrew those spaces. To fully bring my vision to life, I realised I needed a place of our own. The idea had been in my head for a while, but during a holiday in August I decided that when I returned, opening our own studio would be my next goal. I didn’t expect it to happen so quickly, but when this space became available, so convenient for my existing clients, I knew I had to go for it.
The name “Body Image Fitness” — what does it represent and how does it shape the ethos of the gym?
The name is deeply personal. I started as a body image coach, and my own journey involved improving my relationship with my body, rejecting diet culture, and learning that I was “good enough.” That journey inspired the ethos of the gym: a space where fitness is about strength, confidence, and self-acceptance, not appearance. It shapes everything we do, the classes, the language, and the support we give our members.
How does Body Image Fitness differ from other gyms in the area?
We don’t focus on weight, appearance, or fitting an “ideal.” Our approach is weight-neutral, non-shaming, and body-positive.
Classes are small and supportive, with guidance tailored to each person’s needs. Our programs combine fitness with body image support, intuitive movement, and mental well-being, leaving members feeling capable and empowered. We also prioritise inclusivity and accessibility, welcoming all genders, sizes, ages, and abilities, and creating a safe, judgment-free environment for anyone who’s ever felt intimidated by a traditional gym.
How have you connected with the local Heaton community?
Since opening, many locals who knew of Body Image Fitness joined immediately. I’ve also been reaching out to nearby businesses, though there are still plenty I haven’t met yet!
Who is your gym for?
Body Image Fitness is inclusive, but it’s especially for those ready to step away from diet culture, and anyone tired of the pressure to change their body or meet unrealistic standards. Our focus is on strength, confidence, and self-acceptance, supported by a community that values respect and encouragement.
How do you help members focus on confidence rather than appearance?
From day one, we emphasise what bodies can do, not how they look. Classes, coaching, and programs celebrate movement, strength, and progress in meaningful ways, improving mobility, endurance, or simply feeling more confident in daily life. Ongoing support through community and body image resources helps members challenge negative self-talk and build a healthier relationship with their bodies.
What trends have you noticed in health and fitness?
There’s a growing awareness of holistic wellbeing, with fitness being used as a tool for confidence and mental health, not just appearance. But harmful trends, like the “skinny ideal,” are still present in social media and marketing. The positive shift is the rise of body diversity, intuitive movement, and non-diet approaches — the future of fitness is inclusive and wellbeing-focused.
What challenges have you faced launching the gym?
Running a fitness business comes with challenges. We started online, then gradually added in-person sessions, and now we’re fully in-person. Shortly after opening the new studio, part of the ceiling collapsed due to building work above, forcing a week-long closure. It was stressful, but we reopened safely and have been growing ever since. Seeing the studio thrive makes all the effort worthwhile.
What have you learned about yourself?
As a business owner, I’ve learned adaptability, resilience, and the importance of community. I’ve learned to make decisions calmly under pressure, stay true to my values, and embrace doing things differently, rejecting diet culture in fitness has resonated with so many people. As a fitness professional, I’ve learned the power of intentional, tailored teaching and that listening is as important as instructing. Overall, I’ve learned patience, persistence, and the courage to follow my vision.
What’s next for Body Image Fitness in 2026?
Next year, we’re focusing on growth and expanding our impact: more classes, more instructors, and new timetable options. I’ll be stepping back from teaching some sessions to focus on developing the business. Looking ahead, we hope to open a second studio, creating a network of small, inclusive, weight-neutral gyms across the North East, where people can feel supported, strong, and confident, all without diet culture pressures.
bodyimagefitness.co.uk