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The club will have a wide range of indoor and outdoor facilities
David Lloyd Leisure secures approval for large health club in Yeovil,
Somerset
David Lloyd Leisure (DLL) has secured planning permission for a new health and racquets club in Yeovil, Somerset.
The facility will feature a large health club with a gym area and exercise studios, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, an internal spa and an external spa garden. Other areas inside the club feature two indoor courts within a sports hall, an activity area and lounge facilities –including a business hub and terrace.
There will also be three outdoor tennis courts within an enclosed air dome structure, six outdoor padel
courts enclosed within a canopy, an outdoor multi-use court and an outdoor battle box exercise facility.
The plans received final approval from Somerset Council’s planning officers, which means that construction could begin within the next six months.
DLL is working on the plans in partnership with private property company, Abbey Manor Group.
The DLL club will be located on “Plot E” of Abbey Manor Group’s Bunford Park development which features 185 homes.
Led by Executive Chair, Glenn Earlam, David Lloyd Clubs currently operates 135 full-service health and racquet clubs.
Of these, 105 are in the UK and the other 30 in mainland Europe, operated under three brands: David Lloyd Clubs, Harbour Clubs and Meridian Spa and Fitness in Germany.
As well as gyms and exercise studios, the facilities offer a wide range of racquet facilities, from tennis, badminton, squash to pickleball and padel.
WellNation is published by Glencroft Ltd. This publication is protected by copyright and no part may be reproduced, transmitted or stored in any print or electronic format without the written permission of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this publication and WellNation accepts no responsibility for any error or misrepresentation. Opinions expressed by the contributors and advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher and we do not accept responsibility of losses or damages arising from them. Printed by BCP Media Group Ltd.
PHOTO: DAVID LLOYD/ABBEY MANOR GROUP
news & trends
CIMSPA to introduce professional status to sector
The Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA) will introduce professional status to sport and physical activity professionals in September.
From September 2025, current CIMSPA members will be issued with a professional status, with all sector professionals, including those who are not currently members, being invited to apply for these new titles. The move aims to ensure that professionals in the sector are professionally recognised by the public and allied sectors, such as health and social care.
As a chartered professional body, CIMSPA is formally permitted to grant professional status to the sport and physical activity sector through the royal charter.
CIMSPA says that from September, sport and physical activity sector professionals will gain a “clear title, postnominal letters and digital assets to use to assure other professionals, employers, relevant sectors and
the general public that they are skilled, trustworthy and ethical”.
The professional status is issued by CIMSPA and then it must be maintained through learning and skills development.
Spencer Moore, Chief Strategy Officer at CIMSPA said: “Professional
recognition, for both individuals and the sport and physical activity sector as a whole, is something we know the professionals in our workforce have been asking and waiting for, and I am delighted that we are able to introduce the professional status framework to our fantastic and hard-working sector.”
The Gym Group report: Gen Z prioritises spending on fitness
Gen Z are increasingly prioritising their time and money on fitness and wellbeing, ahead of other “traditional” lifestyle options, such as dining out and socialising in pubs and clubs.
The inaugural Gen Z Fitness Pulse Report –from The Gym Group – reveals the popularity of exercise continues to rise among Gen Z, with the age group now making up around 40% of the budget operator’s total 900,000+ membership.
Nearly three-quarters (73%) of Gym Group’s Gen Z members said they exercise at least twice per week, up 11 percentage points compared to 2024. Based on a survey of more than 2,000 respondents aged 1628, the report also shows the increasing importance of exercise in Gen Z’s lives, with more than four in 10 respondents (44%) ranking fitness as their top first or second discretionary spending priority.
From September 2025, CIMSPA members will be issued with a professional status
240,000 people will be offered tirzepatide over the next three years
NICE publishes guidance for obesity jabs: “people need additional help”
People who are coming off weight management injections should be offered professional help – including getting fit – to ensure they do not regain their excess weight following treatment.
New guidance from NICE, the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence – which informs the work of the National Health Service – warns that weight management is a longterm journey, not a “short-term fix”. Updating its quality standard for the use of obesity jabs, NICE sets out new expectations for healthcare providers. These include offering ongoing advice and tailored action plans – covering everything from regular check-ins and practical strategies to support with sustainable routines, social support and accessing community help. Published on 5 August, the new advice outlines how people using weight management injections – such as liraglutide (Saxenda), semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) – need to build long-term behavioural habits.
“Research shows that many people regain weight after stopping treatment if they don’t get the right help,” the new guidance states.“This can negatively affect both their physical and mental health. Healthcare teams should monitor people for at least a year after they complete treatment and offer extra support if needed. This could include practical advice from programmes like NHS Better Health on changing daily habits or making adjustments at home or work to avoid slipping back.”
Among the measures recommended by NICE is for patients to work alongside professionals to produce an action plan that they can easily put into practice if they are not maintaining changes and other local peer support groups – such as keep fit or walking groups.
The guidance comes as new weight loss drugs are now being made available to those with the greatest need on the NHS.
Drax Fitness secures Jetts Fitness partnership deal
Drax Fitness UK has signed an equipment partnership with franchised gym operator, Jetts Fitness UK. As part of the deal, Drax will be the primary fitness equipment supplier for Jetts Lichfield, which is set to open this autumn. The gym will feature a full suite of Drax solutions, including Drax cardio with Android HD LCD touchscreens and My Mountain incline trainer, Drax Welliv Pro pin loaded and Pure Plate plateloaded strength equipment, as well as free weights and benches. Other sites to introduce Drax kit will be Jetts Hammersmith and Jetts Farnham.
EGYM and Spirit Fitness sign partnership
Fitness tech giant, EGYM, has signed a strategic partnership with fitness equipment specialist Spirit Fitness. The collaboration introduces EGYM integration across Spirit’s premium 1000 Series cardio range, enabling logging in with RFID and realtime syncing of workout data with EGYM apps. The integration is designed to allow fitness operators to unlock a smarter training experience, in which member performance “flows” across equipment and platforms. EGYM members will also gain access to their personalised performance data.
Drax will supply Jetts gyms with kit
PHOTO: PIXABAY.COM/MICHAL JARMOLUK
PHOTO: DRAX FITNESS
People news
Matrix appoints Danny Melling as National Key Account Director
Matrix Fitness, one of the world’s largest commercial fitness brands, has announced the appointment of Danny Melling as National Key Account Director, strengthening its leadership team and reinforcing the brand’s commitment to strategic growth and sector-leading partnerships.
With more than 20 years of industry leadership experience, Melling brings a wealth of expertise in business development, partnership strategy and
Create appoints Ollie Bell as MD
Create, formerly Create PT, has welcomed Ollie Bell to its Board as Managing Director.
Previously Director of Client Services at the Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMSPA) and before that Commercial Director at Future Fit Training, Ollie has significant experience in the education space, as well as deep insights into the power of emerging technology. Ollie’s past achievements include consulting on strategy and tech integrations with many of the sector’s leading training providers plus working with Google to create and deliver an award winning, sector specific, digital upskilling program.
“Fitness professionals are the industry’s most valuable, yet underappreciated asset. By developing and harnessing their potential we unlock huge commercial and growth opportunities,” says Ollie. “Create champions fitness professionals through the delivery of an exceptional tech-driven training experience, whilst also developing products that solve recruitment and retention issues for employers.”
Ollie joins Create at a pivotal time in the company’s evolution. Co-founded in 2017 by gym owner turned entrepreneur, Adam Rhodes, CEO and Josh Thursby, Commercial Director, Create delivers quality fitness education to more than 80 learners every month, many of whom have used their learnings from Create to springboard and develop successful careers in the global fitness industry.
On his appointment, Ollie says: “Create is on an exciting journey and I am thrilled to join as it moves into its next phase of growth.”
performance-led leadership. He most recently served as Interim Director of Membership at ukactive, where he played a pivotal role in supporting the growth and engagement of member organisations across the UK.
In his new role, Danny will lead on the development and execution of National Key Account strategies, enhance client relationships and collaborate with internal teams to align growth with broader business objectives.
Fitness software specialist, ABC Fitness, has appointed Dave Alstead as its new Commercial Director for EMEA.
In his new role, Alstead has been tasked with expanding ABC Fitness’s presence across the UK and EMEA, bringing the company’s holistic software solutions to more businesses and helping them unlock new opportunities for growth.
“I’m incredibly excited to have joined the team at ABC Fitness,” Alstead said.
ABC Fitness appoints Dave Alstead as Commercial Director
Melling joins Matrix from ukactive
Ollie Bell
PHOTO: CREATE
PHOTO: ABC
Leisure DB’s Monthly Market Tracker lets you quickly identify and respond to new opportunities in the market and on your doorstep.
Each month, we round up key developments in the UK gym market: openings and closures, planning updates, proposed expansions, rebrands, management changes and more.
Keep your finger on the pulse and your business one step ahead.
Find out more and download a free sample report: leisuredb.com/market-tracker
news & trends
“Quitters” are given gym incentives
Impulse Leisure partners with Stop Smoking Service
Impulse Leisure has announced a partnership with the Stop Smoking Service, part of the Public Health Department at the local Thurrock council, to support residents in their journey to better health through the ‘Quit to Fit’ initiative. The Stop Smoking Service offers a free 12-week programme, providing individuals with either a free vape kit or nicotine replacement therapies, along with personalised guidance from a dedicated Stop Smoking Advisor. To encourage long-term success, those who complete the programme and remain smoke-free are rewarded with a free twomonth Platinum membership.
Lemin and FitLink launch strategic partnership
Lemin, the European software for leadership and team development with several thousand users across various industries, and FitLink, the internationalisation partner for the fitness industry, have announced their strategic partnership.
The goal of this collaboration is to bring Lemin’s proven AI-powered culture and performance coaching to the fitness sector, an industry that increasingly relies on strong leadership, resilient teams, and authentic organisational culture.
The 11 updated qualifications cover a range of areas
Active IQ launches suite of reformed qualifications to meet demand
Awarding organisation, Active IQ, has launched a suite of reformed qualifications for the physical activity sector, designed to provide learners with targeted skills and knowledge that meet both current industry standards and anticipated future needs.
Available to learners from August 2025, the 11 updated qualifications cover a wide range of areas, from working with adolescents and older adults to antenatal and postnatal fitness. They have been aligned to modern industry needs and seek to plug gaps identified in Active IQ’s 2024 Skills Gap Report.
The Skills Gap Report found that a third (32%) of fitness professionals feel they don’t have access to the resources and tools necessary to customise training programmes for different areas of diversity, and look to begin plugging this gap. The areas of focus were identified through a combination of stakeholder interviews and employer feedback.
Each updated qualification is supported by enhanced digital learning resources, including a flexible e-learning platform and interactive digital assessments, making it easier for learners to access and engage with content at their own pace.
Lee Buck, Head of Product Development at Active IQ, said: “This launch is a significant step forward for our sector.
“These reformed qualifications have been designed with real purpose; they’re approved technical qualifications, eligible for funding and developed to reflect what today’s employers and learners truly need.
“What sets Active IQ apart is our ability to offer a comprehensive suite of approved qualifications, giving centres the flexibility to build programmes that truly reflect the priorities of their local communities. It’s about creating meaningful pathways into the industry and making sure learners are equipped not just for today, but for the future.”
PHOTO:
Snap opens new clubs and invests in existing sites
Franchised fitness operator, Snap Fitness, has reported a strong first half of 2025, with significant expansion and investment across its core markets.
In the first half of 2025, Snap Fitness opened 21 new clubs in strategic growth locations – in Europe, North America, Asia Pacific and Latin America – and completed 44 major club upgrades.
The 44 club upgrades completed in the first half of the year span across five countries and form part of Snap Fitness’ global brand refresh, launched to help franchisees “boost local competitiveness, modernise member experience and increase operational efficiency”.
Snap Fitness now has more than 100 gyms in the UK and a presence in 57 territories worldwide. New markets in which it has recently entered include the United Arab Emirates and Philippines. Snap Fitness is owned by Lift Brands, which also owns fitness tech platform Fitness On Demand and is a minority partner in functional group training specialist, Fitstop.
Ty Menzies, Global CEO of Snap Fitness’ parent company, Lift Brands
Ty Menzies, Global CEO of Lift Brands, said: “These results reflect the continued strength of the Snap Fitness brand and our global strategy to modernise, grow, and support high-performing clubs in key locations and territories. From new franchisees joining our network to existing owners
reinvesting and expanding their own franchise portfolio with us, the first half of 2025 has proven that Snap Fitness’ blend of member-first design and franchise-first support is resonating on a global scale.
“Our global repositioning is a strategic move to future-proof our offering”
Plans submitted for South Lanarkshire leisure centre
Plans have been submitted for a new leisure centre in Larkhall, South Lanarkshire.
Described as a “highly sustainable, communityfocused facility”, the facility will replace an existing centre, which first opened in 1966.
To be owned by South Lanarkshire Council, the proposed facility has been designed by architects Holmes Miller and is set to be delivered in collaboration by BAM Construction and hub South West.
Plans for the 3,040sq m, two-storey facility include a 25m, six-lane swimming pool with a spectator terrace, a health and fitness suite with flexible exercise studios, sauna and steam room, a gym and fitness studio and a sports hall. According to Holmes Miller, a key feature of the project will be its strong environmental performance.
PHOTO:
The facility has been designed by architects Holmes Miller
news & trends
Altrincham Leisure Centre opens after £20m revamp
Altrincham Leisure Centre has reopened following a major £20m redevelopment project.
The works have transformed the facility into a wellbeing centre, featuring two swimming pools – a 25m pool and a 20m pool – both equipped with accessible pool pods, alongside a wet village changing area, an inclusive Changing Places toilet and a combined lobby area with pool viewing and café.
Other facilities include a wellness assessment room, an enlarged fitness suite, fitness changing and dry change areas, two flexible studio spaces, a live and virtual indoor cycle studio, a four-court sports hall, a gymnastics hub and staff rooms and offices.
The centre – which has been rebranded as move Altrincham – also boasts a brand new wellbeing spa facility called The Cove. The mix of facilities has been developed with support from Sport England and is aimed at providing long-term, sustainable leisure provision that delivers positive health and wellbeing outcomes for residents.
Move Altrincham forms part of Trafford Council’s Physical Activity Strategy, ‘Trafford Moving’, designed to get more people moving more often and also supports the Council’s corporate priority to reduce health inequalities across the borough. The facility is operated by Trafford Leisure,
a community interest company wholly owned by Trafford Council.
Jo Cherrett, CEO of Trafford Leisure, said: “This is the second site Trafford Leisure has opened under the new move brand, and together we are truly redefining what community leisure looks and feels like.”
Forest of Dean leisure centres set for upgrades
Four leisure centres owned by Forest of Dean District Council (FDDC) are set for refurbishments this autumn. The four centres – in Cinderford, Lydney, Newent and Sedbury – will see equipment upgrades, new facilities and services, with work taking place between September and November.
Cinderford Leisure Centre will receive new functional kit, 20 ICG 6 indoor bikes, four Concept 2 rowers, a treadmill, Power Mill climber, benches and a cable machine. In addition, members will see Les Mills Sprint classes added to its selection of group classes. At Lydney, a new functional training room will be built, which will be opening by early November.
The upgrades are being delivered in partnership between FDDC and Freedom Leisure, which operates the facilities.
Olympic gold medalist, James Guy MBE, attended the opening of the centre
The four centres will benefit from equipment upgrades
news & trends
Matrix secures extension to supply BWT Alpine F1 team
BWT Alpine Formula One Team has extended its collaboration with Matrix Fitness. As part of the partnership, Matrix has worked with the Alpine team to develop a high-end training space, fitted out with premium fitness equipment.
The Alpine Human Performance Centre (AHPC) is designed to optimise the physical conditioning of the team drivers, as well as its roster of Alpine Academy drivers and team members.
The training facility places a particular emphasis on strength, core and upper body training.
Plans revealed for the launch of Gym
Safety Council for the UK
Plans have been revealed to launch a “Gym Safety Council” (GSC) in the UK. The GSC aims to become a national body, dedicated to enhancing safety standards for both staff and members in gyms and leisure centres. The not-for-profit initiative has been founded by a collective of cross-sector experts, wanting to address “inconsistencies in safety practices and establish a benchmark for excellence”. The GSC’s mission is to create a “safer environment for everyone engaging in physical activity within commercial and domestic gym settings”
The winners in 19 categories will be announced at a gala event in October
Finalists revealed for ukactive Awards 2025
The finalists of the ukactive Awards 2025 have been revealed, following a record number of entries.
This year’s awards will recognise winners in 19 categories, following the introduction of two new categories – the Independent Club/Centre of the Year and Private Club/Centre of the Year. The winners will be revealed at a gala event at the ICC in Birmingham on Thursday 30 October.
Huw Edwards, CEO of ukactive, said: “The ukactive Awards celebrate the very best of the UK’s physical activity sector, and it is the perfect opportunity to recognise the organisations, programmes and individuals that are behind this success.
“We were delighted to see a record number of entries this year, following the improvements we have made which show our commitment to make the Awards as representational,
transparent and competitive as possible. We’re looking forward to recognising the incredible work of our sector on the night and beyond, and we welcome all ukactive members and their teams to come and celebrate our progress together.”
The judging process for the awards has been led by Proinsight and the headline sponsor of the awards is the Swimming Teachers’ Association (STA).
Ali Beckman, President of STA, said:
“All of this year’s ukactive Award finalists have shown creativity, dedication, and vision, and we congratulate them –along with everyone who entered – on their outstanding achievements.
“With a record-breaking number of entries of exceptional quality, this year truly showcases the talent and passion within our industry.”
• For the full list of this year’s awards finalists, visit: shorturl.at/fU3Bm
Alpine Human Performance Centre
PERFORMANCE LIKE NEVER BEFORE
Unlock your gym’s potential with powerful, data-driven solutions that drive results, boost performance and elevate the customer experience.
POWERING PUBLIC HEALTH
MWellNation
sat down with Mark Braithwaite, CEO of Sandwell Leisure Trust, to ��nd out
how an
investment in EGYM technology is powering a transformation in public leisure
ark Braithwaite, CEO of Sandwell Leisure Trust, has a clear view on how local authorities can navigate the huge economic pressures they are under, while still delivering high quality services.
“If public leisure is to have a sustainable future, it needs to reimagine its purpose away from just a building where people get active to a vital community provision, working with the council and other community providers to close the gap on health inequalities and improve health span for everyone,” Braithwaite says. “This is exactly what we are doing in Sandwell.”
When did you first experience EGYM?
“I first came across EGYM about ten years ago while I was Managing Director at 1Life. At the time, EGYM was the new kid on the block. I have kept a close eye on how EGYM is evolving, particularly how it is driving better engagement with user groups who traditionally struggle to engage with leisure facilities.
“I was also interested in EGYM’s data collection and application capabilities. Proving outcomes to our members, our community partners and our funders has always been a huge challenge. Data is the absolute DNA of the EGYM ecosystem, making it possible to prove the impact of our interventions easily and at scale. This is the game changer the industry has been waiting for.”
Why is all this so critical in Sandwell?
“Sandwell is ranked as the 12th most deprived local authority in England. In Sandwell, life expectancy and healthy life expectancy sit well below national averages. People are spending a decade longer in ill health compared to other parts of the country. We have a responsibility to change that, and increasing physical activity is one of the most powerful levers we have.”
“The latest Active Lives data shows 37.6 per cent of adults in Sandwell are inactive, far higher than the national average of 25.1 per cent. Alongside this, over 70 per cent of adults are overweight or obese.
“Our mission to tackle inactivity, support healthy weight management and build healthier, more connected communities closely aligns with the council’s Community Health and Partnerships plan and the Government’s new NHS 10-year plan.”
EGYM is proving that physical activity can drive effective, measurable, scalable health interventions
How is EGYM helping you translate health improvement ambitions into action?
“We installed the EGYM equipment, Fitness Hub, and the Trainer and Member apps at Portway Lifestyle Centre in December 2024. Since then, the EGYM ecosystem has become central to how we onboard and engage members, including those coming through exercise referral pathways.
“The EGYM equipment is located at the entrance to the gym, open yet slightly partitioned from the functional training space. This design helps remove potential intimidation barriers, supporting people to gradually build the confidence they need to be able to explore and utilise all areas of the gym.
“We’ve also just added the first EGYM Smart Squat in the UK to help manage peak-time demand and enhance our offering. This addition highlights our commitment to continually evolving our provision.”
What is the EGYM data telling you?
“The data is making it possible to evidence outputs rather than relying largely on gut feel and basic engagement statistics. Since December 2024, we’ve onboarded more than 1,500 users, representing 61 per cent of our
core gym membership. EGYM users are averaging an incredible 4.1 visits per week, compared to 1-2 visits for other members. Retention has improved by 18 per cent.
“In terms of health outcomes, we’re seeing an 11.3 per cent average strength improvement across all users. Men aged 61 and over have improved strength by 24.9 per cent and women by 17.1 per cent. Overall BioAge reductions average 6 years across all ages, with women aged 61 and over reporting an average reduction of 14.2 years.”
How are you using this data?
“Historically, the fitness industry has struggled to provide data back to NHS and Public Health teams to evidence its impact. With EGYM, we can now track strength gains, BioAge reductions, and engagement metrics. This allows us to evidence, for example, that someone over 60 using EGYM twice a week is significantly stronger and therefore less likely to experience a fall, reducing pressure on social care and local NHS services.
“I believe this data-driven approach can be transformative in how physical activity is viewed and funded within public health frameworks, extending the role of public leisure as a key driver in the delivery of localised population health targets.”
Data is the absolute DNA of the EGYM ecosystem, making it possible to prove the impact of our interventions easily and at scale
How does this align with your health pathways and partnerships?
“Portway Lifestyle Centre co-locates a gym with a GP surgery and a hydrotherapy pool, allowing us to create seamless pathways from healthcare into activity. We offer traditional memberships, but we also run a subsidised exercise referral membership, allowing patients to continue accessing EGYM after completing their 12-week referral programmes at a heavily subsidised rate. We want people to engage with our services for the long term so we can provide long-term term highly personalised support to ensure their training effort is being rewarded by the attainment of improved health.”
“We are working closely with NHS physiotherapists, adult social care teams, and the Sandwell Visually Impaired (SVI) group. The EGYM system’s ease of use means that even blind users can set themselves up independently, while automated adjustments accommodate special populations without requiring constant trainer intervention.”
EGYM powers an open, digital ecosystem. How are you leveraging that?
“EGYM integrates with over 200 third-party providers. This enables operators to build unique environments based on equipment and software preferences. Recently, we installed Perfect Gym to provide our CRM, taking advantage of the ability to connect with EGYM.
Summary
of
outcomes at Port Way Lifestyle Centre
Based on data and statistics downloaded from EGYM’s digital ecosystem
● 1,517 onboarded into the EGYM ecosystem since December 2024
● EGYM users train 4.1 times per week compared to non-EGYM users who train 1-2 times per week
● 18% improvement in retention for members who had EGYM induction vs those who didn’t
● EGYM members stay on average, a month longer than non-EGYM users
● Overall average strength improvement of EGYM users is 11.3 per cent
● Men aged 61+ have registered an average strength improvement of 24.9 per cent
● Women aged 61+ have registered an average strength improvement of 17.1 per cent
● Overall, EGYM users have reduced their BioAge by an average of 6 years.
● 61+ year old females have registered an average BioAge reduction of 14.2 years
● 61 per cent of the membership base is now onboarded into the EGYM ecosystem
This is enabling the development of single sign-on capabilities to control EGYM circuit access based on membership type, ensuring flexibility and scalability.”
Are you using EGYM Genius and AI-driven plans?
“Yes, and it’s made a significant difference to our ability to provide person-centred, progressive training plans at scale. Genius is enabling us to cater to the preferences of every member.“
What’s next for Sandwell Leisure and EGYM?
We will be deploying EGYM in a second site as part of a new build, expanding our model across the borough while refining our approach to health pathway delivery.
“Without EGYM’s connected platform, AI-powered personalised programming and data application, we would not be able to scale our services in a way that would be meaningful in terms of making a difference to health on a whole-community level.”
Final thoughts?
“EGYM is proving that physical activity can drive effective, measurable, scalable health interventions. In Sandwell, EGYM is helping us build pathways that tackle inactivity, reduce health inequalities, and give people more years of healthy life. This is why we will be expanding EGYM’s integration at further sites, using the data it collects and applies to drive the case for embedding prescribed physical activity into health care plans. This is a critical part of our mission to improve health outcomes in Sandwell to create healthier, happier communities.”
To find out more about EGYM and how it is powering fully integrated lifelong fitness, health and wellbeing journeys for everyone, visit https://egym.com/uk
news & trends
£22m project to rebuild West Wickham centre
A planning application has been submitted for the partial rebuild of West Wickham Leisure Centre in Bromley, South London.
The proposals include a new café, gym, reception area, changing rooms and a competitionlength swimming pool.
Demolition works at the centre are set to commence in the coming weeks, subject to Planning Approval, with the £22m works having already been approved at a meeting of the London Borough of Bromley Council in July. Works are also continuing on the refurbishment of the remainder of the centre, particularly the learner pool.
The project will be delivered by specialist leisure development partner, Alliance Leisure for the centre’s owner, London Borough of Bromley. The main contractor will be Etec Group.
Councillor Yvonne Bear, Executive Councillor for Renewal, Recreation and Housing, said: “This is an important step towards the delivery of this new state-of-the-art leisure
centre, with the attractive designs seeking to further tie together our public spaces in West Wickham.
“We are in a fairly unique position among local authorities of being able to press ahead with a substantial investment in our leisure provision, and I know many residents will be
excited to see further progress on site shortly as we secure this centre for many years to come.”
The revised proposals follow structural assessments work at the centre after asbestos was removed, allowing the building structure to be examined more closely.
New Epping Leisure Centre set for 2025 opening
The new Epping Leisure Centre is expected to open by the end of the year. Construction work reached a major landmark recently with the centre’s two pools now being finished and 95% of the roofing being completed – with only the green roof remaining.
Around 90% of the external envelope of the building had also now been completed. Once open, the centre will include a main swimming pool, a learner pool, sports hall, health and fitness club, squash courts and exercise studios.
With air-sourced heat pumps and digital technology, the Epping Forest District Council – which owns the centre – is hoping to achieve BREEAM excellent rating for the facility.
The centre is owned by Epping Forest District Council and is operated – alongside the council’s other facilities, by Places Leisure.
The £22m works having already been approved at a meeting of the Council in July PHOTO:
Both of the centre’s two pools have now been finished
people
Coaching for health
Liz Jones Solano is a certified health coach and a wellness and fitness strategist. She tells WellNation how personalised wellness services can deliver life-changing results
Chronic illnesses like diabetes, obesity and heart disease are rising at alarming rates, costing the NHS billions each year – yet most are preventable. The challenge isn’t that people don’t know what to do.
The reality is that people live extremely busy lives, filled with stress and a constant demand on their time – which makes following fitness and wellbeing regimes hard. How many times have you promised yourself you’d eat better, exercise more or finally manage stress – only to slip back into old habits? You’re not alone.
This is where health coaching makes the difference: bridging the gap between good intentions and lasting change, supporting people to get back in the driving seat of their own health.
What is the role of a health coach?
Health coaches empower people to build the knowledge, skills and confidence to make informed choices, set meaningful goals and sustain lifestyle changes. Using tools like motivational interviewing, active listening, ‘SMART’ goal setting, habit science and positive psychology, we help clients clarify values, uncover motivators and take practical steps toward sustainable wellbeing.
Unlike doctors or therapists, health coaches don’t diagnose or prescribe. Instead, we complement healthcare professionals by focusing on the four pillars of wellbeing – nutrition, movement, sleep and stress management. We offer accountability, mentoring and a supportive space, guiding clients to design their own blueprint for a healthier life.
Transformative Impact
On an individual level, health coaching can be life-changing. Research shows improvements in weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes management, alongside higher energy, resilience and self-belief. For me, the greatest transformations come when clients reconnect with their authentic motivators and sources of joy! In my practice I also weave in functional breathwork, meditation and mindfulness, giving clients practical tools to regulate stress, cultivate mind-body awareness and prevent burnout.
Health coaching bridges the gap between good intentions and lasting change
At a public health level, the impact is equally powerful. NHS England recognises health coaching as one of five key interventions in its Self-Care Programme. With lifestyle-related conditions driving most NHS costs, coaching offers a preventative, cost-effective solution that frees clinicians to focus on acute care. As the power of prevention is increasingly recognised, health coaching is rapidly moving into the spotlight. The workplace case is just as strong. Studies show wellbeing programmes with coaching reduce absenteeism by up to 32% and sick leave by 28%. A meta-analysis found a strong return on investment, with £3 returned for every £1 spent. With the WHO estimating that stress and anxiety cost the global economy $1 trillion annually, coaching isn’t just good for people – it’s good for business.
A profession with standards
Health coaching is self-regulated in the UK, so training with a high-quality provider is key. I certified with Health Coaches Academy (HCA) and now run my own coaching practice alongside motivational speaking at conferences and corporate events (www.lizsolano.com).
I am also an Ambassador for HCA, which is an approved UKIHCA partner and offers the UK’s highest-level health coaching qualification – the Level 5 Diploma, accredited by QUALIFI and the Association for Coaching (AC). This ensures graduates are safe, ethical and effective practitioners, ready to meet growing demand. For me, health coaching is about rediscovering joy, purpose and confidence in your own health. Whether through 1:1 coaching, workplace programmes or motivational talks, the mission of a health coach is to help people build a lifestyle they love – grounded in resilience, aligned with values, and thriving in energy and focus. If you’re interested in learning more, or curious about becoming a health coach, get in touch.
news & trends
A Healthspan Score can be established in as little as six minutes
Wattbike launches its new Healthspan score
Indoor cycling specialist, Wattbike, has unveiled the Healthspan Score, an intuitive, sciencebacked metric that turns complex cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) data into a single, easy-to-understand number. By reframing “CRF” as a Healthspan Score, Wattbike makes it simpler for everyone to see how fit they really are and how many healthy, high-quality years they could add to their life.
The Healthspan Score can be used to predict long-term health and longevity, reflecting how efficiently the heart, lungs and muscles work together during exercise. Studies show that a low score is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer and all-cause mortality, while improvements deliver powerful protective benefits.
Now live on the Wattbike Performance Touchscreen 2 (PTS2), the Healthspan check and score feature will roll out to the free Wattbike Hub app, giving home users and club members the same clear benchmarking and progress tracking used by professionals.
Eddie Fletcher, Lead Sport Scientist, Wattbike said: “Data only makes a difference when it drives action. And it only leads to action when people understand it. The Healthspan Score packages decades of exercise science into a simple number that speaks to everyone.”
Places Leisure win 10-year contract in Kingston
Places Leisure have been appointed as the successful operator of key leisure sites across Kingston for a further ten years.
The new contract will focus on supporting healthy and active lives for all in Kingston. This includes initiatives such as the Active Communities Programme, which takes health and wellbeing activities into local communities, helping to engage more people in active lifestyles and reduce health inequalities.
As part of the new agreement, Places Leisure will deliver a programme of investment to upgrade facilities across all sites, as well as undertaking vital maintenance and ongoing monitoring. They will also be introducing energy saving projects that help to reduce the carbon output of sports and leisure facilities which, alongside the council’s recently approved programme to improve existing buildings, will support the council’s carbon reduction goals. Chessington Sports Centre and
Albany Outdoors will now be included under the same contract and benefit from the expertise of an experienced leisure operator for the first time. This will bring consistent service standards, improved operational management, and enhanced customer experience across both sites. The contract also includes the continued operation of the borough’s three existing council-owned leisure facilities already managed by Places Leisure: the Malden Centre, Tolworth Recreation Centre and Weir Archer Athletics and Fitness Centre. The new Kingston Leisure Centre will also be added once open in spring 2027.
Councillor Alison Holt, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development and Leisure, said: “With a new contract in place we can make improvements to the existing services and facilities on offer, work to achieve our sustainability goals, and encourage more people to benefit from the spaces available across the borough that can help them thrive.”
The new Kingston Leisure Centre is due to open in 2027
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news & trends
New guidance to make gyms safer spaces for females
ukactive and Sport England’s ‘This Girl Can’ campaign, in partnership with CIMSPA and Women’s Aid, have published new resources to help fitness and leisure facilities continue to create safer spaces for women and girls to be active.
Launched on the newly updated Safer Spaces to Move hub, the resources cover a range of operator guidance and provide operators with staff training modules to ensure they have the foundational protocols in place to respond to any instances of sexual harassment and intimidation, should they occur. There are two new resources. The Operator Handbook contains recommendations for operational policies and guidance, advising on best practice in response to sexual harassment or intimidation reported within a facility. Separately, the Staff Training Modules have been designed to help staff recognise and understand sexual harassment and intimidation and know how to respond to incidents.
The modules are free of charge and available to any fitness or leisure operator to download. Research shows that sexual harassment is prevalent across society, with 71% of women of all ages having experienced some form of sexual harassment in a public space.
A survey commissioned by ukactive and This Girl Can in 2023 also found that four in 10 (42%) women said they had experienced at least one form of sexual harassment or intimidation, such as inappropriate comments, staring, or encroachment of personal space while in a gym or leisure facility.
Mytime Active signs up to EGYM Hussle’s corporate platform
EGYM Hussle and Mytime Active have entered a long-term partnership agreement that will see all seven of Mytime Active’s fitness venues added to EGYM Hussle’s B2B fitness marketplace.
The collaboration will see the Mytime Active sites being available on the EGYM Hussle employee benefits service.
Garry Spreadborough, Sales Director of EGYM Hussle, said: “We’re proud to have been chosen as the corporate partner for Mytime Active. Together, we’ll unlock new opportunities to connect employers and their people with high-quality, accessible fitness experiences across the UK.”
Kelly-Anne Stead, Mytime Active’s Commercial Director, added: “We’re excited to be partnering with Hussle to expand Mytime Active’s reach in the corporate fitness market.”
PHOTO: MYTIME
The resources cover a range of operator guidance and also include staff training PHOTO:
Kelly-Anne Stead (left) with EGYM’s Garry Spreadborough
news & trends
Sun Lane Leisure Centre to undergo decarbonisation
Wakefield Council is investing “millions” in carbon-cutting technology at its Sun Lane Leisure Centre, supporting the council’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions across its estate and work towards net-zero targets.
The project will see the centre’s fossil fuel-based heating systems, including gas boilers and the combined heat and power (CHP) unit, replaced by three rooftop air source heat pumps (ASHPs). These will be installed alongside a suite of energy-efficiency upgrades including the installation of solar panels, upgrades to the building management system (BMS), replacement LED lighting throughout, new heat emitters, the integration of an 8,000-litre thermal store to optimise heating performance plus general upgrades to the electrical infrastructure. Funding for the project is being made available through the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme (PSDS) and the council’s own reserves. A total pot of almost £5 million is being invested which also includes the support of
works at Upton Primary School in Pontefract, being delivered separately. Work is scheduled to begin this autumn with an estimated delivery period of six months. The leisure centre will mostly remain operational throughout, with a short closure when the new heating systems are switched
over. The multi million pound project is being delivered by Alliance Leisure through the UK Leisure Framework. George Ayre, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “This latest investment is part of our wider decarbonisation journey at Wakefield Council.”
Life Leisure launches Manchester’s first power-assisted studio
Life Leisure has launched the new Move Well Studio; the first public leisure studio in Greater Manchester offering power-assisted equipment designed specifically for older adults and those with more complex health conditions. Located at its award-winning Avondale health and wellbeing hub in Stockport, Life Leisure is the first organisation within the GM Active collective to offer Innerva’s specialist equipment responding to both demand and demographic trends. Michelle Childs from Life Leisure, said: “Stockport has one of the fastest-growing older populations in the North West. We already serve a large older adult demographic and our latest investment in the new Move Well Studio gives us a dedicated space to better meet these customers’ needs and do something really impactful for older adults.”
PHOTO: INNERVA
The project will see the centre’s fossil fuel-based heating systems being replaced
Life Leisure receives close to 3,000 clinical referrals a year
people
Data reveals a hopeful, positive spa sector
Bobby Griffiths General Manager The UK Spa Association
In August, the UK Spa Association unveiled the results from its 2025 State of the Industry report, offering a candid yet hopeful snapshot of a sector navigating challenges with resilience and innovation. The report is based on an industrywide survey that ran for three weeks from June to July.
Drawing from the anonymised survey data, the findings show that while staffing gaps and cost pressures remain, spas across the UK are finding creative ways to adapt, attract talent, and deliver exceptional guest experiences.
The aim of our report is to empower spa leaders with credible, year-on-year data to support confident decision-making. With insights now broken down not only nationally but regionally, operators can benchmark salaries, treatment trends, and operational strategies against their peers, helping them identify opportunities for growth.
So, what were the main findings?
Talent gaps spur new approaches
The data reveals therapist vacancies remain a concern with 37% of spas reporting two vacant therapist positions and 35% one position vacant. However, the stability in these figures compared to last year suggests the sector is holding steady rather than declining. Many operators are using this as a catalyst to improve staff wellbeing, refine training, and create more appealing work environments.
Collaboration and innovation can help the spa sector emerge stronger
When asked about current challenges, 29% of respondents pointed to poor retail sales, while 21% cited overall budget pressures. Followed closely by recruitment (18%), staff morale (14%), and no time for training (14%). Encouragingly, these challenges are driving fresh ideas — from wellness-focused staff programmes to more flexible work schedules.
Rewarding and retaining talent
Most full-time equivalent therapist salaries sit between £25,000 and £28,000, with room for growth. While a staggering 63% of spas currently offer no treatment commission, those who do, report that even small incentives can boost engagement. Competitive pay, positive work environments and robust training are top factors therapists seek when choosing a role — giving operators a clear roadmap for keeping talent.
Rewarding and retaining talent
National Insurance changes have prompted 25% of spas to raise prices, with others using the moment to review operations and introduce more efficient practices. This adaptability is key to weathering economic shifts while maintaining high service standards.
A united path forward
The message is clear: with collaboration, innovation, and a focus on people, the UK spa sector can not only endure challenging times but emerge stronger — continuing to be a sanctuary of care, wellbeing, and growth. The UK Spa Association State of the Industry Report was released on August 13th 2025 and is available complimentary to all UKSA members and anyone who filled in the survey. A copy may also be purchased directly from the UKSA. For further enquires please email: manager@spa-uk.org
BEYOND LEISUREWEAR
Elevate your branded uniforms with BLU Leisure’s expertise
In today’s competitive marketplace, your team’s attire does more than just clothe them; it embodies and amplifies your brand’s identity. BLU Leisure, known for its bespoke leisure-related uniforms, has evolved. Now, they bring the same level of innovation and service to staff-branded uniforms across diverse sectors, including Leisure, Health + Fitness, Hotels + Hospitality, Food + Beverage, Holiday Parks, and beyond.
Why BLU Leisure stands out
1
Bespoke designs that enhance a brand’s identity
BLU Leisure creates individual designs that align perfectly with clients’ corporate identity—garments that are as unique as the brand itself. This ensures teams are always looking and feeling professional.
2
Ranges for all roles
BLU’s expansion into new categories brings together high-performance leisure + workwear and powerful branding which allows them to create ranges for all types of roles on large sites, from gym instructors to life-guards, from bar staff to maintenance. Think polo shirts and shorts, branded hi-vis gear, hoodies, softshell jackets—designed for safety, comfort and visibility in demanding environments
3
Seamless stock management and convenience
With a proven stock management system, BLU ensures clients can call off required items when needed—simplifying distribution, reducing downtime and keeping operations efficiently branded.
4
Proactive service and purchasing insights
BLU Leisure doesn’t stop at fulfilment. BLU monitors usage and ordering patterns to suggest updates that enhance comfort, performance, and team cohesion.
Who’s already benefiting?
Clients such as Bannatyne and Everyone Active have long trusted BLU not just for fitness uniforms but for a wide range of branded apparel. From personalised items to staff uniforms across spa, café, and frontof-house teams, BLU’s bespoke solutions have supported numerous operations for over a decade
Everyone Active, with more than 150 leisure centres nationally, relies on BLU’s streamlined stockmanagement systems – delivering at-scale uniforms and branded accessories across hundreds of locations.
Multi-functional branded uniform:
● Performance meets presentation: uniforms built to work hard and look sharp across sectors: from logistics to hospitality.
● Branding that works overtime: uniforms designed to reflect and elevate your brand identity, in and out of the work place.
● Intelligent inventory for your brand’s needs: robust systems ensure the right items arrive when and where they are needed.
● Service that scales: proactive, client-centred service that supports evolving team dynamics and branding goals.
Looking to elevate your team’s look, efficiency, and brand presence – no matter the environment? BLU Leisure brings decades of bespoke design, operationssmart systems, and promotional flair to every garment. Whether you’re preparing a warehousing team for peak season or outfitting your customerfacing staff, BLU delivers with reliability and style.
Is your brand ready to explore tailored uniform solutions that work as hard as your teams do?
Contact BLU Leisure directly: Tel: 01908 582525 Email: info@bluleisure.co.uk
The POWER of TEN W
Sometimes, bad things lead to good things. In the case of Joanne Mathews, founder of Ten Health & Fitness, it resulted in a thriving business that has impacted positively on people’s lives for nearly 20 years – and continues to do so
hen a driver ignored a “no u-turn” sign and smashed into Joanne Mathews’ car in October 2005 –leaving her in severe pain and signed off work for six months – it sent her on a journey of discovery. Mathews had fractured her coccyx, rotated her pelvis and suffered severe whiplash, leading to several appointments with GPs, physios and sport massage therapists. What she found was that, for people like her, there was a serious lack of consistency in rehabilitation programmes.
“I wasn’t able to move very well at all,” Mathews says. “There was also an emotional side to what was a serious accident that needed attention.
“I spent months navigating a healthcare system that was very disjointed and inefficient. I think the NHS and hospitals are great if you’ve broken something, as they can fix it. But when you have tissue or muscle damage or need a more holistic approach, they’re not really great with that.
“I was carrying my X-rays between an orthopedic consultant, a physiotherapist, my GP and everybody else with everyone giving me different advice. What I learned
I recognised a deep need for joined-up thinking in rehabilitation
was that there was no coordination, no shared language and nobody was expected to join up the dots. If there’s not a clear protocol for dealing with something, then hospitals seem reluctant to keep you within the system.”
The initial idea
It wasn’t until she met David Higgins, a personal trainer who specialised in a dynamic form of reformer Pilates, that she found a path to recovery – both physically and psychologically.
“The introduction of reformer Pilates equipment transformed my rehabilitation journey,” says Mathews, to whom – as a former county-level swimmer and squash player – sport and exercise had always played an important role in life. “At a time when I was finding it very difficult to walk, reformer Pilates enabled me to start exercising again.”
As her condition improved, Mathews entrepreneurial nous kicked in and she began to consider the implications of her experience – and what reformer Pilates had offered her.
“It made me realise that there must be other people out there in my position – people who weren’t receiving that kind of care which, honestly, was life-changing for me,” she says.
The Ten Health concept is based on dynamic Pilates and personal training
“I recognised that there was a deep-seated consumer need for joined-up thinking and a system where the individual would be at the centre of the process, rather than the person trying to join the process together themselves.
“At the time, in early 2006, Pilates wasn’t really known outside of dancing circles – and even then it was more to do with mat-based Pilates. So I investigated the yoga market and also looked at how the Australian market had developed.”
Mathews adds how, at the same time, the gym market was going through a transitional phase. Consumer attitudes and needs were changing and gyms weren’t necessarily meeting them. In 2006, budget gyms were still two years away, while boutique gyms were few and far between. The “onesize fits all” middle market still ruled the roost.
“Ten Health was born out of, I think, a real client need,” Mathews says. “My concept was to launch something that enabled people to do small group classes on a new piece of kit that was both sustainable and inclusive – but also provided fitness in a functional way. So I didn’t set out to be a Pilates purist. Instead, I wanted to take the components and fundamentals of Pilates and turn it into a more dynamic format.”
Setting up a business
After deciding to spend her life savings on her business idea, Mathews secured a site and opened the first Ten Health in Notting Hill in August 2007. “I literally put everything I had in the bank, £60,000, in getting that first studio,” she says. “It was a risk, but I took the view of ‘what’s the worst that can happen’.
“The worst that could happen, I decided, was that I’d lose the £60,000 and would have to go live with my parents again. I could deal with that.”
Any doubts Mathews might have had about the concept quickly evaporated. The business broke even within three months and had become profitable by the end of 2007 – five months after opening.
“We then started to look at scaling the business, because that has always been the vision,” Mathews says. “We decided that the first thing we should do was have a bigger footprint at Notting Hill and introduce integrated services. So we started with dynamic form parties and personal training and within six months we had also added physiotherapy services.”
The success of the first site led Mathews to agree a lease on a second site in Chiswick. The timing of the decision, at the end of the summer of 2008, could’ve turned out to be less than optimal.
“I remember driving home after signing the lease at Chiswick,” Mathews recalls. “I was listening to the radio and the big breaking news was that the Lehman Brothers had crashed – soon to be followed by the great stock market crash and runs on banks. I called my boyfriend and said ‘I think I might have just made a mistake’.
“But after the initial worries, what we found was that people won’t give up on health. They might give up on their holiday or a new posh bag, but they’re not going to give up on their health. And I think that’s what really stood us in great stead.”
Being able to thrive in a recession was the final proof – if any was needed – that the concept of Ten Health was solid. From that second site in Chiswick, Ten continued to grow further. A second site in Notting Hill and others in Fitzrovia, Nine Elms and The City followed. Today, Ten (rather fittingly) owns and operates 10 sites around London.
A virtuous circle
Determined to ensure that clients who are recovering from injury have a better experience than she did, Mathews and her team have introduced services such as in-house physiotherapy and sports massage to Ten’s dynamic Pilates and personal training, as well as small-group exercise programming (including Barre, yoga, stretch, TRX and HiiT classes). In 2019, the business secured £4m growth capital investment from Foresight Group.
Mathews says the USP has always been to provide a cohesive, joined-up approach to exercise and rehabilitation – the type of service she herself looked for during her own recovery.
“We combine the different modalities, which means that each informs the other,” Mathews explains. “So our Pilates informs our physiotherapy service, while our physio – and our clinical services – also inform our Pilates. You could say it’s a virtuous circle.”
With more than 160 staff across the locations, Ten has established itself as a destination of choice for Londoners looking for personalised Pilates. The success of the business is, perhaps, reflected by comparing the launch of that first site in Notting Hill with the latest opening in Kings Cross. Notting Hill was set up with Mathews’ life savings of £60,000, while the investment in the Kings Cross site exceeded £1.5 million.
Launching a franchise feels like a natural progression for Ten
Ten’s USP is to provide a cohesive, joined-up approach to exercise and rehabilitation
tenreformer sites across the UK and internationally.
“Launching a franchise strategy fits with our mission of delivering more Pilates to more people in more places,” Mathews says. “It feels like a natural progression for Ten, expanding the reach of our Pilates expertise. We’ve already had interest in franchises thanks to our legacy in London.
Mathews is now planning the next stage of growth. In April this year, the company entered the franchise market with the launch of a new brand – tenreformer. With the franchise concept, Mathews looks to capitalise on the growing popularity of Pilates and the aim is to secure
“tenreformer leverages our history and reputation. We’ve always been incredibly protective of the Ten brand, and this doesn’t change with this strategy – tenreformer will be from Ten but a brand in its own right – and we’ll be ensuring the quality of teaching and providing all of the resources needed for franchisees to deliver the authentic experience we expect from a Ten Brand.”
THE BEAT behind the WORKOUT
Andy Pickles, CEO of Pure Energy Music, explains why, when
it comes to exercise
classes,
music matters more than you think
Walk into any gym or studio and the music sets the atmosphere. It can engage or disengage participants — which is why choosing the right soundtrack is essential before a class even begins.
I’ve spent more than 30 years in the music industry, from engineering and production to racking up 13 global number-one singles (including three UK #1s). After years of touring as a producer and DJ, I now lead Pure Energy Music, where our mission is simple: to help fitness operators harness the power of music to boost performance, motivation and wellbeing.
Performance: Moving in time with the beat
Music can make or break a group exercise class. It’s the secret ingredient many people overlook but you always notice when it’s wrong. The right track can pick you up, push you through fatigue, and set the rhythm for the workout.
In studio cycling, for example, a 10-minute hill climb relies on synchronicity between rider and soundtrack. In functional fitness or endurance formats like Hyrox, the music has to ebb and flow, giving you recovery moments, then lifting you again. Done well, music doesn’t just support performance, it drives it. That’s why at Pure Energy Music our objective is to make great music, but where we go further is that we understand how this music will affect the group exercise experience. Our team of leading music producers and fitness experts come together to produce every track with purpose: thinking about frequency, rhythm, BPM, and structure as well as melody, percussion and lyrical content. These aren’t just aesthetic choices; they directly influence how people move, focus, and stay motivated. When music is produced specifically for exercise, it creates flow and enhances performance. When it isn’t, the effect can be the opposite.
Motivation, focus, and energy
Music has a profound impact on both body and mind. For example the nature of a HIIT class with fast-moving intervals is best suited to faster-paced music with uplifting melodies and top-lines that drive the intensity of those intervals and exercises. A strength or conditioning class benefits from steady mid-tempo rhythms to support controlled effort. For yoga or recovery, slower, flowing tempos help participants relax and focus inward. When the beats per minute align with the workout, members feel guided, energised, and more engaged. Instructors can use this as a powerful tool to set the mood, control the flow, and bring everyone together in sync. The result? A room that not only looks more focused but also performs better because the soundtrack is built for the session, not just added to it.
Wellbeing: More than just physical
Fitness isn’t just about the workout, it’s about how it makes you feel. Music helps on that front too: it reduces stress, lifts mood, and makes classes feel more social.
I often describe music as medicine. The right frequencies can calm the nervous system, release stress, and even create a deeper sense of connection. Our app has a section called Intentions - music designed for focus, recovery, or mindfulness. Just as a doctor prescribes the right medicine, fitness professionals can prescribe the right music and when group exercise aligns with the flow of the music, there’s a shared energy that’s both uplifting and inclusive. In today’s world, that sense of connection and belonging is just as important as the physical benefits of exercise.
Music as brand DNA
Here’s where things get interesting for clubs and studios: music can become part of your brand identity. Just like a logo or colour scheme, a consistent musical style helps members instantly recognise “your sound”. The most successful operators don’t leave music to chance. They use it strategically to reinforce brand identity and create a consistent, memorable sound that members associate with their club. Done right, music becomes a subtle but powerful driver of loyalty, retention and community.
Choosing the right track for the right workout
Not all workouts are created equal, and neither is the music that drives them. A pounding, high-BPM track will fire up a HIIT class, but it’s not what you want
for recovery or mindfulness. The tempo, genre, and structure can make or break the vibe of a session, which is why BPM optimisation is so important.
Certain movements in studio cycling classes benefit from a defined, solid beat and tempo that matches the RPM and synchronicity required to drive you up that hillclimb. Yoga or Pilates can benefit from slower, more fluid soundscapes to guide breathing and movement. Even within strength training, mid-tempo beats can help participants stay controlled and consistent.
That’s why we produce tracks designed not only to work across demographics and fitness goals, but also that deliver the right BPM structure for each style of workout. It’s about inclusivity, functionality, and making sure everyone in the room feels supported by the soundtrack. Music that is on the extreme ends of the genre spectrum will by its own nature not appeal to everybody.
Why music will always matter
At the end of the day, music is more than just background noise. When you understand the effect music can have in turning workouts into experiences and classes into communities, you start to appreciate the true impact of music in the context of fitness.
For further info, go to https://pureenergymusic.com
Pure Energy Music wants to help operators understand how music will affect the group exercise experience
The hugely popular Durham City Run Festival was launched by Olympic silver medallist and World Champion, Steve Cram CBE, in 2016.
Attracting thousands of runners and spectators, the four-day festival comprises a 5K and 10K race, as well as Paula Radcliffe’s Families on Track, where families complete a 10K distance together in a continuous relay.
Durham County Council has supported the event since its launch but, this year (2025), the council took its support to the next level. With its leisure brand, thrive, as headline sponsor, the council harnessed the excitement of the
festival to develop a community-wide campaign, Together We Move. The campaign focused on movement and wellbeing, resulting in almost 10,000 residents engaging in physical activity over three months. It also supported the wider physical activity partnership strategy, Moving Together in County Durham, which launched in 2023 to embed movement into everyday life and tackle health inequalities across the county.
“All movement contributes to a healthier life, whether that’s cycling to the shops, walking to school, doing some gardening or playing in the park,” says Deborah Holmes, the council’s Strategic Manager for wellbeing, sport and leisure.
Durham council utilised the Run Festival to develop a communitywide campaign, Together We Move
It’s so good to see families enjoying being active together
In total, almost 10,000 residents engaged in physical activity over three months
“We used the Durham City Run Festival to promote movement at all levels by creating a series of activities leading up to the event.”
Making movement accessible
Running from May to July, Together We Move delivered an extensive programme of inclusive activities and events designed to support everyday movement across a variety of settings.
The campaign’s digital fitness challenge, run through the Technogym app, encouraged residents to track all kinds of movement, from gym workouts to climbing stairs.
Promoted through Facebook and the council’s thrive leisure app, the challenge attracted 320 participants and logged an impressive 12.5 million moves, the council’s highest ever engagement for a digital campaign. Prizes included gym memberships, Technogym equipment and free Durham City Run places.
“We’re really pleased with the level of engagement we attracted during this digital fitness challenge,” Holmes says. “It shows the strength of our community and is a great example of how technology can help make activity accessible and inclusive. We aim to launch more challenges in the future.”
Durham County Council has supported the Durham City Run event since its launch
More than 70 families took part in Paula Radcliffe’s Families on Track
To create pathways into the festival’s 5K event, the council delivered 14 Couch to 5K programmes across the county, engaging 160 people. The 10-week programmes were led by qualified run leaders and hosted at community venues. WhatsApp groups provided peer support, accountability and motivation between sessions.
The council also ran four Start Me Up events. These free and friendly sessions helped new and returning runners become familiar with the Durham City Run course, allowing them to build confidence and reduce any anxiety about taking part ahead of the race events.
Jess, one of the participants – who was also recovering from surgery – said: “The Start Me Up runs were a great way to get back into
running following a few months out. Seeing and experiencing a new route with the idea of completing the full 5K drove me to attend. I will definitely be joining more events in the future.”
At the same time, more than 70 families took part in Paula Radcliffe’s Families on Track, the popular family relay event launched by the long-distance running legend. 2025 marked the year that the event returned to Durham, the city where the concept made its original debut.
“Having fun is a core objective of Families on Track,” Radcliffe says. “It’s so good to see families enjoying being active together, especially in such a beautiful setting. I’ll always have a soft spot for Durham and I love coming back up here with my own family to be part of the festival.”
council welcomed Fireride Local, a pop-up cycling event that gave children and adults the chance to test their skills on a purpose-built track, try out different bikes, and enjoy cycling in a safe, friendly environment. The event also featured professional riders performing spectacular stunt demonstrations.
Driving participation beyond fitness spaces
Together We Move reached beyond traditional leisure settings and tapped into other initiatives to encourage residents to move more. During national Walk to School Week, the council’s wellbeing team and travel planning unit worked with schools to encourage participation.
Supported by information packs and incentivised through a prize draw offering £250 vouchers for school sports equipment, around 5,200 children from 22 schools got involved in the initiative.
May’s National Walking Month saw 455 people join 52 weekly wellbeing walks, while July’s Together We Move Big Walk brought around 80 participants together for a 90-minute walk through parkland near Lumley Castle. A Gentle Steps version offered a shorter, more accessible option, followed by a community picnic to encourage connection and social wellbeing.
The council’s wellbeing team and travel planning unit worked with schools to encourage participation
5,200 children from 22 schools got involved in the initiative
PLACES
The council also encouraged workplace activity. As part of its Better Health at Work programme, it staged its first seven-a-side football tournament for council staff during festival week. Hosted at Meadowfield Leisure Centre, the mixed-ability competition drew 20 teams and 200 employees across departments, from traffic management to licensing.
The tournament brought staff together in a new way, said community wellbeing coordinator Dean Tinkler, who organised the event.
Tinkler said: “I didn’t expect the tournament to be as popular as it was - teams were still enquiring after the deadline. It was great to see staff come from different departments and have fun competing for the trophy. We’ll be looking to do it again next year with more time and planning to make it bigger and better.”
Celebrating the volunteer workforce
During Volunteers’ Week, the council recognised and celebrated those who give up their time to support the delivery of its physical activity programmes and services. Events were held across parks, libraries, museums and community spaces to thank walk leaders, run leaders and leisure volunteers for their dedication.
Volunteer walk leader, Jane Whitall, said: “Wellbeing walks are important, especially for getting people out and moving. Some people may
not see anyone from one week to the next. The thank you walk at Derwent Manor was amazing. It was lovely to meet other volunteers, discuss our different walks and get to know each other. It gave me a real sense of appreciation from the council and an understanding of just how many people give up their free time to do these things.”
Delivering movement at scale
By aligning Together We Move with the Durham City Run Festival, Durham County Council has shown how local authorities can harness the excitement and enthusiasm of popular community events to deliver their health and wellbeing goals. Rather than simply sponsoring the festival, the council used it as a springboard for inclusive, county-wide participation, reaching new audiences and helping to create sustainable behaviour change in the process.
“This was so much more than a race,” says Holmes. “It was about making movement feel relevant, fun and accessible, for all residents wherever they are in their fitness journey.”
Your portal to transformation education
from most of the best Speakers in the Fitness Industry.
Welcome to the VirtualRoadshow.App… Welcome to the future of fitness education.
Have you ever gone to a conference and seen a great presentation and gone back to your Club and tried to describe what you learned to your staff, and something seemed to be missing in your description?
Well, with the VirtualRoadShow.APP you can literally show them, pause and discuss, rewind, fast forward. Stop… and then it’s there to be viewed again and again for a refresh, or new hires. You’ve literally got a 24-hour Conference in the palm of your hand…
Scan the QR code, register online in the Virtual Store at www.VirtualRoadShow.online, download the .APP, log in and start your £1 Try All today.
Every Thursday at noon GMT one of our presenters, trainers or coaches from the world of fitness deliver unrivalled guidance, advice, training and support on building, growing, and scaling your gym business.
From leadership, to coaching, to marketing, to sales, and beyond.
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SPATEX 2026 THE BIG ONE
SPATEX, the UK’s leading water leisure exhibition, celebrates its 30th anniversary this year and will offer a fully immersive experience
When SPATEX 2026 opens at Coventry Building Society Arena on Tuesday 3 February 2026, the three-day event will hold all the promise of a show celebrating three decades of showcasing the very best of international water leisure.
Free to attend, SPATEX is also set to host one of its largest shows ever in 2026 – such is the demand for exhibition space that the organising team has gone back to the drawing board to expand the floorplan.
“This will be a 360-degree vision of water leisure in 2026 and beyond,” says organiser Michele Bridle.
THE PLACE TO BE AND BE SEEN
It’s a show designed with the commercial sector in mind. Offering the latest and most authoritative guidance in the management and provision of swimming pools, wellness spas, hot tubs, play features, and hydrotherapy pools, special reference will be given to energy saving. View the latest innovations and trends and take advantage of the host of special show discounts and offers available exclusively to visitors.
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SPATEX provides the best source of free information in the industry with a double seminar programme on all three days, including CPD accredited workshops. It’s thanks to the support of a large number of esteemed associations – for example, Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers (ISPE), Swimming Teachers Association (STA), Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS), Pool Water Treatment Advisory Group (PWTAG), Water Management Society (WMSoc), Legionella Control Association (LCA), Institute of Swimming (IoS) and, of course, the British Swimming Pool Federation’s SPATA (Swimming Pool & Allied Trades Association) and BISHTA (British & Irish Spa & Hot Tub Association). Combined, they bring their individual insights and knowledge to add considerable gravitas. This will be a 360-degree vision
IMPARTIAL ADVICE
Those working in aquatics or water leisure will be able to gain the most up-to-date information from over a thousand industry professionals. Some things can only be done in person - so bring your plans with you. Please visit the SPATEX Help Desk at the entrance to the hall if you need a starting point.
TRENDING
See the finest examples of design, construction, and installation - the British Swimming Pool Federation stand will showcase the award winners from the British Pool & Hot Tub Awards held during SPATEX.
NETWORK CENTRAL
SPATEX will host its traditional Networking Party in the Coventry Building Society Arena Clubhouse on the Wednesday. Visitors and exhibitors are warmly invited to attend at 5pm after the show closes, for industry chat, free canapés and drinks.
● Save the date for the big one! SPATEX 2026 - Tuesday 3rd to Thursday 5th February at the Coventry Building Society Arena. All are welcome and attendance is FREE For more info: helen@spatex.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 1264 358558
