A Swindon-based Pilates instructor and sports massage therapist is looking to expand her business which started during the pandemic.

Sam Hobbs, a wellness professional, transformed the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic into an opportunity to "innovate and adapt".

Her business, which began as a "necessity", has now flourished into a successful venture.

As lockdown measures halted physical sessions in March 2020, Ms Hobbs found herself in the same uncertain situation as many others in the wellness industry.

Sam HobbsSam Hobbs (Image: Sam Hobbs) With clients unable to visit in person, she quickly pivoted to establish an online platform for her Pilates classes.

Using social media and video conferencing tools, she launched a series of virtual sessions and workshops to provide her clients with the support and guidance they needed during the challenging time.

Ms Hobbs said: "Transitioning to an online format was daunting at first. However, I was determined to keep my clients engaged and motivated.

"I focused on creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where everyone could feel comfortable participating, regardless of their fitness level."

Her "commitment to personal connection and community support" paid off, as she successfully built a loyal client base.

She later expanded her offerings to include holistic facial massage, sports massage, and wellness coaching, further meeting the diverse needs of her clients.

The response was "overwhelmingly positive", with many clients keeping her fully booked.

Ms Hobbs said: "I believe in a holistic approach to wellness, and that includes offering choices that fit different lifestyles.

"My motto is, 'there's always an option,' and I want to empower my clients to find what works for them."

Today, Ms Hobbs' online business continues to thrive and has seen significant growth.

With an online community and a diversified range of services, she believes she has positioned herself as a trusted resource in Swindon and the health and wellness industry.

Many of her clients are women aged 35 and older who are seeking a balanced approach to health, and Ms Hobbs believes it is her "simplicity and authenticity" that resonates with them.

Looking ahead, Ms Hobbs plans to continue expanding her online presence, offering workshops that provide a different approach to Pilates.

She said: "I'm excited about the future and the opportunity to continue helping others on their wellness journeys."

Her business aims to "empower individuals to embrace a healthy lifestyle through personalised support and community engagement".