New state-of-the-art fitness centre set to be opened in Ilkley

The venture, which opens on 2 January, is the brainchild of fitness industry professionals Chris Cummins and Harry Morse who will personally manage the operation alongside a handpicked team of personal trainers.

Commenting ahead of the opening, Mr Cummins said, “XO is a highly refined Hybrid Fitness offering and Ilkley is the perfect location to launch our boutique fitness concept; we believe it is among the first of its kind outside London.”

Mr Cummins, who has a long track record in the fitness sector, said the venue’s futuristic interior and hi-tech facilities are aimed at appealing to a discerning and exclusive clientele.

With initial memberships limited to just 150, XO is the second venture for the pair, who also operate a CrossFit gym in a converted mill on the outskirts of Skipton. Both have previously competed in the HYROX World Fitness Championships, a global challenge of extreme fitness-based racing.

XO is one of several new businesses set to breathe new life into The Moors complex; landlord Bradford Council said it hopes the recent opening of Italian restaurant Pranzo and the arrival of XO Fitness will pave the way for more new or expanding businesses.

XO’s studio environment follows a six-figure refurbishment which was carried out by Skipton based C&S Construction; the venue’s signature lighting was installed by Ilkley firm TAC Electrical.

The venture has the backing of businessman and entrepreneur Philip Davies, MD of Skipton-based vitamins and health supplement supplier Health and Wellbeing Brands Ltd.

Mr Cummins and Mr Morse also both have a long association with Skipton-based children’s charity, the Principle Trust, raising thousands by hosting an annual fitness competition. The Trust provides respite breaks for children who are underprivileged, disadvantaged, disabled, have life-limiting conditions, or who have experienced poverty, trauma or abuse.