A YOGA and pilates instructor from Greenock proved that being flexible in every sense was the key to staying afloat during lockdown.

Denise Trayling, who owns Studio 10 Pilates & Yoga on Robertson Street, opened the doors to her studio on Monday for the first time in five months.

The active 47-year-old bent over backwards to make sure everything was safe before welcoming back her regulars.

Delighted Denise told the Tele: "It's been a strange five months but I moved everything online and attendees were all participating in classes online via Zoom.

"It meant that people who didn't come to classes previously were able to join.

"But not all of my regular attendees participated online so I'm so looking forward to seeing them back in the studio.

"The set-up meant that everyone could see me - I had a gallery display of everyone which also allowed me to see all participants and make sure their technique was right.

"I'll still be sharing the classes online for anyone who isn't quite ready to come back yet."

As well as cutting the studio's capacity by half, Denise has also introduced safety measures such as hand sanitising stations and people now bring their own mats.

To mark the big return she got a special balloon display and sign from Gourock business The Slumber Tent Party Co.

Throughout lockdown Denise ensured the social elements of her classes were maintained by holding a Go Yellow fundraiser in aid of Ardgowan Hospice.

She told the Tele: "The fundraiser was brilliant, everyone participated and got right into the spirit of it.

"The amount of support that both the fundraising and I have had over the last few months has been great.

"The fundraiser coincided with my first anniversary in the studio, so from now on I'm going to hold a fundraiser for Ardgowan Hospice every year."

===

Pictured front centre: Denise Trayling.

Second row L-R: Lynn Rideout and Maureen Campbell.

Back row L-R: Hazel Campbell and Sandra Clark.