At the end of 2019 we were delighted to discover that we had been short listed for the UK Fitness Awards, under the category of “Best Independent Gym, North East”. That delight was shortly followed by a facepalm when we saw the awards ceremony date… 22nd December 2019, the same day we’d be boarding a plane to Budapest for our first days off together since April!

Fortunately Tony’s family could attend!

Landing in Budapest we turned off flight mode on our phones… and to our happy surprise, found out we had won! Whilst a little bitter sweet our first award award had been accepted in our absence, it was a fabulous way to start our holiday!

There is no sugar coating the fact that the independent gym life is hard. The hours are relentless. The days off are rare. However, seeing our members thrive is hugely rewarding, and recognition like this award lifts the spirits beyond words.

We’ve plenty in the tank for Graft Häus, and all being well this award is the first of many we secure in the coming years!

Thanks to everyone close to us for their continued love and support, it really does make things that little bit easier