A near constant stream of women flowed into Cedar Parkade this week as the Island?s first women-only gym opened it doors.

Contours owner Allan Crockwell said the response was ?overwhelming? as he took groups of women through the gym to view the stationary bikes, treadmills, weights, and the massage service offered at his Cedar Avenue location.

More than 20 seniors took out memberships at a special rate, he said and roughly 50 women ranging in age from their teens to senior citizens also signed up at yesterday?s open house.

?People are very eager, they see this as something that?s really needed in Bermuda. I think the success will come from the personalised, women-only atmosphere,? said Mr. Crockwell.

?I?ve had calls today from women saying this is great, this is something I?ve been waiting to see for a long time.?

While women only fitness classes are offered at a variety of gyms Island-wide, Mr. Crockwell?s concept of a women-only gym is meeting the demand from those who want to develop their fitness level in a less intimidating environment.

Personal fitness trainer Sharlene Shakes, who was taking a walk through the facility on Tuesday, said it is a fantastic concept and which will help Bermudian women achieve their fitness goals.

?The intimidation factor is out,? she said. ?Women have the chance to discuss female to female issues with their trainer from weight training to nutrition.?

Olympic Club owner Scott Stallard agreed the new gym is a ?brilliant? concept.

He said he investigated the idea himself several years ago.

Although he praised the owner?s initiative, Mr. Stallard said he has never considered the need to pamper women with their own gym.

?The women who come to out to the gym are confident. I think it?s a bit old-fashioned to consider the need to separate men and women. Women get motivation from being around all different kinds of people.?

Roxanne Steele, the Fitness Director at the Total Fitness gym said Total Fitness offers a variety of women only classes, but she welcomes the competition.

?I think it will go off very well, it?s popular in the States. I think it?s the support women get from such a facility and their ability to feel more comfortable. It?s a good way to get their foot in the door and begin working out.?

Contours will have opening hours will be from 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. Monday - Thursday; 6 a.m. - 4 p.m. Fridays; and 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Sundays.