Industry raises funds for brain tumour charity Page 4
Sport for Confidence and the Activity Alliance launch ‘Include to Improve’ Page 12
Alliance Leisure begins multi-million pound redevelopment of Doncaster Dome Pages 15
Delivering infinite air resistance levels for high-intensity workouts, the AirMaster Pro Air Bike is a standout performer.
Perfect for all runners, the CurveMaster Pro features expanded Bluetooth capabilities, an extra-robust design and more.
A functional fitness favourite, this ski machine delivers results by simulating cross-country skiing.
A cardio king, this rowing machine provides quality low-impact, full-body training sessions.
Planning a gym build or renovation? Book in to visit our brand-new commercial showroom in Northampton! Recently renovated to reflect the commercial gym of today, our showroom houses some of the biggest and best brands all under one roof, including UK exclusives like Body Power TITAN and SHUA Fitness.
Speak to the commercial fitness experts at FS Commercial Division today. SCAN TO ENQUIRE
ESCAPE Fitness has unveiled its latest innovation for the gym floor – the Glute Station attachment, a spaceefficient, performance-driven solution designed to meet the growing consumer demand for effective glute training.
With glute-focused workouts continuing to trend across social media platforms and training plans, gym members, especially women, are actively seeking equipment that builds strength, power and definition in the lower body.
Responding to this demand, Escape Fitness has developed a new attachment that gives gym owners and personal trainers the tools they need to keep members engaged and resultsfocused, without taking up excessive floor space.
“The Glute Station is more than just a new attachment,” said Matthew Januszek, CEO, USA, Escape Fitness.
“It is a direct response to what today’s gym goers are calling for.
“We’ve designed this to give operators a compact, versatile tool that taps into one of the most in-demand training goals right now: building
stronger glutes.
This innovation helps facilities stay relevant, competitive and results driven.”
The Escape Fitness Glute Station provides an all-encompassing lifting experience for glutes, legs and core.
It features seven integrated resistance band pegs and a fully adjustable back pad to support a wide range of exercises, training styles and abilities.
“By pairing plates with resistance
bands, the station offers quick and precise load adjustment, delivering time efficient and highly effective training results.
Designed to integrate seamlessly with Escape’s Octagon frames, the Glute Station is available in three space-efficient lifting configurations. Whether in a studio, leisure centre, corporate, hospitality or education setting, this innovation enables operators to maximise space without compromising training capability.
At Script Media, we try to get things right but occasionally, we make mistakes. If you have a complaint about a story featured in our magazine or on our website, please, in the first instance, contact us by email: dm@scriptmediagroup.co.uk We abide by the Editors’ Code of Practice as demanded by the Independent Press Standards Organisation. For details on the code and what to do should you be unsatisfied with the way we handle your complaint, please visit www.ipso.co.uk
Advertiser’s announcement
TAYLOR Made Designs has seen a surge in orders for lightweight dye-sublimated uniforms this summer.
“Dye sublimation has become more and more popular, especially for summer polos and t-shirts,” said James Taylor, global sales director of Taylor Made Designs.
“You can pack a garment with vivid detail, and you won’t add any bulk to it, because the design gets baked into the garment fibres. It’s perfect for activewear on hot summer days.”
Sublimated uniform is ideal for coaches, PTs and site managers who need their branded garments to breathe well and move naturally.
It is very popular for tops, but it can also be used on shorts, leggings, jackets and even socks.
“With sublimation, logos
don’t sit on top of the garment in the form of embroidery stitches or printed vinyl,” added James.
“They become an integral part of the fabric. Because of this, sublimated designs never crack or peel.
“There are a few limitations. Sublimated garments must be made from polyester textiles – it doesn’t work well with organic fibres. Lead times tend to be slightly longer, too.”
Taylor Made Designs is currently offering free uniform reviews. If you are looking to refresh your staff uniforms, TMD can visit you and carry out a comprehensive analysis of the costs, performance and logistics involved in your current staff uniforms. Give the TMD team a call on 01202 473 311 or email hello@taylormade designs.co.uk
www.workoutuk.co.uk
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Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of all content, the publishers do not accept liability for error, printed or otherwise, that may occur.
XPLOR Gym has partnered with Independent Gyms UK and Ireland to publish the Ultimate Guide To Opening A Gym.
Opening a gym is a dream for fitness enthusiasts looking to turn their passion into a career, and those in the industry looking to take their career to the next level, alike.
Knowing where to start can be tough. Keen to help aspiring owners on their journey to success, the Xplor Gym and Independent Gyms teams came together to embark on creating a comprehensive resource.
Owning a gym can be seriously rewarding, but it comes with challenges too.
The guide exposes the realities and practicalities of starting a gym business.
The free resource features honest insights from gym owners and wise words from subject matter experts including Leisure DB, Jay City Finance, CIMSPA, Risk HQ and Uplift Fitness Marketing.
“We’ve supported gyms across the UK, and around the world, through all phases of growth – from concept through to enterprise. So, we know how important those early days are for future business success,” said Dave Alstead, commercial director at Xplor Gym.
“We’re excited to share this extensive guide with prospective gym owners, helping them
understand what’s involved with gym ownership right from the getgo.”
Amy Ritson, partnerships manager at Independent Gyms UK and Ireland, added: “As a former gym owner, I’ve been there and done it –I’ve experienced the many highs of gym ownership.
“But also, the lows that can come with it. I’ve made the good and the bad decisions along the way and came out the other side with a huge admiration for those willing to give
it a go.
“After spending the last two years at Independent Gyms, it’s made me appreciate just how difficult, but also just how rewarding gym ownership can be, which is why we are hugely excited to partner with Xplor Gym to create the Ultimate Guide To Opening A Gym.”
The Ultimate Guide To Opening
A Gym is available to download for free at xplorgym.co.uk/educationresources/opening-a-gym
“The step-by-step guide will
assist entrepreneurs on their gym ownership developing, from developing a business model and finding the right location, to choosing equipment and hiring a team,” added Amy.
“We’ve reached out to the 2,500 gym owners in the Independent Gyms community, asked about their experiences and sought their advice, to help shape this guide and give readers a real understanding of what to expect as they make the transition to gym owner.”
ALLIANCE Leisure has raised £6,000 for Brain Tumour Focus, the new charity established by fitness industry professional Mel Crossland following her brain tumour diagnosis.
The leisure development specialists hosted their inaugural charity football tournament, which saw 16 teams from across the leisure and construction sector competing for the title of tournament champions.
John Leaver, marketing and frameworks director at Alliance Leisure, organised the tournament.
He said: “We were blown away by the incredible support for the event and would like to thank everyone for their generosity.
“I’m so proud of the funds we’ve raised for Brain Tumour Focus and am delighted that everyone enjoyed the day. I’ve already pencilled in the date for next year’s tournament.”
Companies behind the design and build of some of the UK’s most innovative health and fitness facilities competed in the event.
In addition to Alliance Leisure,
these comprised CGP MEP, Curo Construction, Etec, FMG Consulting, Gladstone, Hadron, Hensall, Indigo Fitness, Pellikaan, Prospec, Roberts Limbrick,
Speller Metcalfe, TG Escapes, The Sports Consultancy and Universal Group.
The event was also supported by a host of sponsors: Prospec,
The Sports Consultancy, Etec Group, Hensall, Universal Group, CGP MEP, Gladstone, Curo Construction, Speller Metcalfe and Pellikaan.
The day ended with two finals, a Champions League group and Europa Cup group. FMG Consulting was overall champions, with Alliance Leisure winning the Europa Cup.
Brain Tumour Focus is a new charity that was set up by Mel after she was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour in 2023.
Brain tumours are the biggest killer of children and those under the age of 40, yet only one per cent of cancer funding is allocated to brain cancer research.
Mel aims to raise much-needed funds to support research into the disease vital equipment and treatment of brain cancer.
The charity’s new website will launch shortly for donations.
The tournament took place at Derby Racecourse Football Hub, the site of an £8.4m development by Alliance Leisure for Derby City Council and the Football Foundation in February 2023.
Advertiser’s announcement
By Dean Godfrey
IN THE world of gym membership sales, the walk-in is a golden opportunity.
These are people already interested enough to step through your doors and can be considered warm leads. Yet, too many gyms miss the mark by giving uninspired tours that focus on equipment rather than experience.
If you’re serious about boosting conversions, it’s time to up your gym tour strategy.
Here’s how to transform curious walk-ins into committed members, without sounding like a pushy salesperson.
1. Greet like you mean it
First impressions count. A warm, enthusiastic greeting sets the tone. Avoid the tired “Can I help you?” and instead go for something like: “Hey there! Welcome to ABC Fitness, is this your first time visiting us?”
This opens the door for natural conversation and signals that you’re friendly, helpful, and attentive.
2. Understand their “why” before the “what”
Before diving into treadmills and class schedules, ask why they’re here. Everyone’s motivation is different:
n “What brings you in today?”
n “What are your fitness goals right now?”
n “Have you been a member of a
gym before?”
This helps you tailor the tour to their needs. A person looking to lose weight may need different info than someone training for a marathon, and someone who has attended a gym many times before, will need less explaining of equipment than someone new to exercise.
3. Make it a conversation, not a presentation
Nobody wants a canned, rehearsed speech. Think of the tour as a two-way conversation. Keep it interactive:
n Let them try equipment briefly.
n Show a group class in action and explain how it works.
n Share short success stories from real members (bonus points if they relate to the walk-in’s goals).
4. Sell the experience, not just the equipment
Yes, you have cross trainers, so does every other gym. What makes your gym different?
n Highlight your community: “Most people who join us stick around because it’s not just a gym, it’s a support system.”
n Emphasise convenience: “We’re open early, late, and on weekends, so you can train on your schedule.”
n Showcase extra perks: free Wi-Fi, clean showers, personal training, wellness programs, or app integration.
People buy with emotion and justify with logic. Help them feel what being a member would be like.
5. Handle objections early and positively Anticipate concerns and reframe them as opportunities:
n Cost: “We offer flexible options, so you only pay for what you’ll use.”
n Time: “Our quick 30-minute classes are perfect for busy schedules.”
n Intimidation: “We have beginner programs and staff that are here to guide you, not judge you.”
Stay positive, never defensive.
6. End with a clear, confident close The biggest mistake? Ending the tour with a vague “So what do you think?” Instead, try: “Based on what you told me, it
sounds like this could be a great fit. Do you want to get started today with a free trial or jump right in with a membership?”
Provide clear next steps: a signup, a trial, or a follow-up call.
7. Follow up if they don’t join right away
If they leave without signing up, don’t let that be the end. Follow up within 24–48 hours with a friendly message:
n Thank them for visiting.
n Recap what they liked.
n Offer an incentive (e.g., sevenday pass, waived fee, bonus session).
Persistence done right is powerful.
Final thoughts: Every tour Is a sales opportunity Gym tours aren’t just walk throughs; they are make-or-break moments in the sales funnel. When done well, they build trust, show value and create excitement.
The goal isn’t to pressure someone into joining, it’s to help them see that your gym is the place where their goals become reality.
Pro tip: Train your entire staff (not just your sales team!) to give amazing tours. You never know who will be the first point of contact for a future member.
n Dean Godfrey is the chief operating officer of Creative Fitness Marketing.
JEBRA has partnered with CoverMe Fitness to deliver a seamless, end-toend solution for team management and payroll in the fitness industry.
Designed to reduce operational stress, the partnership merges two powerful tools into one streamlined experience for operators and fitness professionals alike.
CoverMe brings scheduling, team management and last-minute cover into a single, intuitive platform.
Jebra powers fast, accurate and automated payroll.
Together, they provide a simple, but powerful fully integrated solution for fitness businesses.
Rosanna Tucker, CEO of CoverMe, said: “Fitness operators don’t need more tools, they just need the right ones.
“We built CoverMe to reduce the stress of operations and connect the fitness industry in a smarter way to cut friction in recruitment and help teams to grow.
“Adding Jebra was a natural next step. Payroll should be just
as effortless as scheduling and recruitment, and thanks to our new partnership it now is.”
Jebra is the first payroll platform built exclusively for shift-based
teams.
With AI-powered automation, Jebra handles everything from variable pay rates, bonuses and overtime to tax deductions and
invoicing with speed and precision. Its dedicated employee app gives staff real-time access to payslips, payment history, tax information and savings tools.
The platform is the ideal partner for CoverMe, the on-demand management, recruitment and cover solution.
Both CoverMe and Jebra are integration partners of Mariana Tek, seamlessly connecting with the software to ensure fitness businesses run as smoothly as possible so that teams can focus on driving revenue and delivering exceptional member experiences.
Tufool Alnuaimi, co-founder of Jebra, added: “We’ve always believed that the realities of shift work –variable pay, bonuses, split roles –needs a dedicated payroll platform.
“That’s what Jebra was built for.
Partnering with CoverMe means teams can now go from scheduling to payroll without breaking flow. It’s one connected experience, and it’s long overdue.”
The average number of new members we deliver to gyms in 6 weeks
WHY CFM?
Lead generation
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Risk free with no upfront cost
Wellness and fitness go hand in hand as people combine workout routines with visits to spas and saunas to boost recovery. However, across the UK, the number of facilities can differ, making some locations better wellness cities than others. It leads to the question, which UK city is the best for wellness, providing its residents with spas, saunas, yoga and pilates facilities, while still prioritising fitness?
TO explore this further, Mirafit has created a Wellness Index, ranking cities on three different factors, including the number of new wellness facilities per 100,000 people, the number of gyms and parks or gardens in each city.
Mark Harris, fitness expert at Mirafit, said: “Our new wellness index has highlighted the cities around the UK that are prioritising both fitness and wellness through new facilities and green spaces.
“It’s becoming more apparent that fitness fanatics are combining regimes with wellness to enhance recovery, improve blood flow and reduce injury risk.
“By creating this index, we can monitor the locations experiencing the biggest wellness boom in the UK.”
The new index found that London is the best city for wellness, scoring 89 points out of a possible 90.
Overall, the capital city boasts 313 green spaces, 850 gyms and has welcomed 24 new wellness businesses per 100,000 people since 2022, providing everything people need to prioritise wellness while boosting fitness levels.
Birmingham placed second in the ranking, scoring 83 points altogether.
In total, the UK’s second city offers 46 parks or gardens and has 112 gyms to choose from.
Birmingham has also experienced a wellness boom in recent times, opening 15 new wellness businesses per 100,000 residents over the past three years.
Scotland is also strong on wellness, with Glasgow placing third in the ranking with 79 points out of a possible 90.
The city has opened 22 new wellness businesses per 100,000 people, including a mixture of spas, saunas and pilates studios. Additionally, in the city, there are also 45 green spaces and 62 gyms.
In fourth place, it’s Leeds with the West Yorkshire city scoring 76 out of 90 points.
Leeds is known for its industrial heritage, but it’s also a great spot for those prioritising wellness.
Overall, residents can indulge in 27 parks or gardens, 81 gyms and 14 new wellness businesses per 100,000 people since 2022.
Rounding off the top five is Liverpool. The city, located in Merseyside, scored 73 points out
of 90, ranking as another fine city for wellness facilities.
There are 37 parks or gardens dotted throughout the city, as well as 63 gyms and 13 new wellness businesses (per 100,000 people).
Cardiff finished sixth in the ranking, with the Welsh capital scoring 65 points altogether.
With 24 parks and gardens, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activity and exercise. Furthermore, Cardiff also offers 50 gyms and has welcomed 16 new wellness businesses per 100,000 residents, highlighting the rise in yoga, pilates, saunas and spa facilities throughout the city.
In seventh position is Manchester, which scored 63 out of 90 points.
The city actually topped the list in Mirafit’s separate wellness business study, with 151 new
establishments since 2022.
There are also 26 parks or gardens and 29 gyms to be found throughout the city.
Coventry places eighth in the ranking, collecting 62 points out of a possible 90.
This city ensures its residents have adequate fitness and wellness support with 11 parks or gardens, 70 gyms and 16 new wellness businesses per 100,000 residents.
Nearing the end of the ranking is Bradford, scoring 60 points out of 90.
With a number of high-quality wellness facilities to choose from, residents can combine fitness efforts with saunas, spas and yoga centres to enhance recovery and limit the risk of unnecessary injuries.
Overall, there are 13 green spaces, 93 gyms and 11 new wellness businesses per 100,000 people.
In 10th place is Bristol, which also scored 60 points with 22 green spaces, 53 gyms and 13 new wellness facilities per 100,000 people.
Mark added: “Overall, while it was interesting to see London rank at the top, we found it encouraging to see both Scotland and Wales represented within the top 10.
“Overall, it’ll be interesting to see how these figures fluctuate over the next 12 months and if a new city emerges as the go-to city for wellness. For now, in 2025, it’s London that ranks above all other locations.”
By Wayne Heath
WHEN people talk about trends in the fitness industry, the spotlight usually falls on the flashy stuff; wearables, new machines or AI-powered workouts.
And while those innovations grab attention, they’re not what’s quietly driving real, long-term growth for gym businesses across the UK. The real trend is happening behind the scenes. It’s not about what’s on your gym floor; it’s about how well your business runs when no one’s looking.
I’ve spent years speaking with independent gym owners, coaches, and operators – having been one myself.
And those that are thriving right now aren’t always the ones with the most followers or fanciest kit. They’re the ones who’ve upgraded how they run things operationally.
Here’s what that looks like in practice;
Member apps that give people control In 2025, offering online class
Wayne
booking isn’t a luxury, it’s the baseline.
Members expect the same level of control they get in other areas of life, whether they’re banking, booking a taxi, or ordering dinner.
That’s where member apps come in. A well-built app allows people to manage their bookings, payments, and personal details on their own, anytime, from any device. It reduces admin and builds trust. You don’t have to explain your professionalism; it’s baked into the experience.
Gyms offering this kind of selfservice are quietly outperforming competitors. And they’re doing it without shouting from the rooftops. Their retention speaks for itself.
Automation that actually works
Here’s a statement that might ruffle a few feathers: your sales and retention systems matter more than your workouts.
It’s not about being pushy or robotic. It’s about consistency, following up with leads, sending reminders before payments fail, nudging members to rebook.
Gyms that automate these processes aren’t just saving time,
they’re scaling efficiently. Staff can focus on coaching and connection, not paperwork and chasing late fees. Automation might not be sexy, but it’s the difference between running a business and being run ragged by one.
Smarter class scheduling = fewer no-shows We’ve all seen the frustration that comes with overbooked or empty classes.
But modern scheduling systemsones that include real-time booking, waitlists, cancellations, and class caps make those headaches a thing of the past.
When members know the timetable is accurate and flexible, they’re more likely to show up and stay engaged. You won’t need to explain why your classes feel full again. Your software will do the work for you.
Payments that just happen
One of the most underrated game changers in gym management? Seamless billing.
No one joins a gym to think about invoices, and no gym owner wants to spend time chasing missed payments.
The best gym software automates the entire process: payment collection, reminders, receipts, and reporting. All without manual input, all in one place.
The result? More reliable cash flow, fewer awkward conversations, and a payment experience that’s completely invisible to the member, just as it should be.
If you want to learn more on this, check out my upcoming talk at Elevate “Financial fitness: How to build a profitable, sustainable fitness business”
Generate stage – Thursday, June 19 3.55pm to 4.30pm.
Why this matters now
In a year where overheads are rising and margins are tighter than ever, operational efficiency isn’t just “nice to have” it’s your competitive edge.
The gyms winning in 2025 aren’t necessarily the loudest. They’re the ones building robust, resilient businesses through smart systems that reduce admin, streamline payments, and support members without friction.
At ClubRight, we’ve built our platform to help independent gyms do exactly that, but without breaking the bank! You’ll find our software offers the best value in costs and transaction fees than any other platform available.
n Wayne Heath is the founder and CEO of ClubRight, the best value gym management software. Taking care of everything from membership management and payments to class bookings and online joining, plus a whole lot more.
Give us a call today on 0203 884 977 or book a free online demo with one of our product experts to find out why we’re trusted by more than 1,000 fitness businesses across the UK.
HEALTH and safety and quality management expert Right Directions, which has been delivering Sport England’s Quest for the last 15 years, has been awarded the contract for a fifth term.
Quest was first established more than 20 years ago to measure how well a facility is operating and how effective organisations are across a range of topics.
Aimed primarily at the management of sports and leisure facilities, it defines industry standards and good practice and, under Right Directions’ management since 2010, has steadily evolved to keep pace with the ever-changing sport and leisure industry.
Quest, a one-day assessment, and Quest Plus, which takes place over two days, both cover a number of compulsory modules.
These include Tackling
Inequalities, developed alongside the Activity Alliance, to help leisure operators provide more inclusive and accessible physical activity opportunities, and Environmental Management, which supports facilities in the development of
plans to include environmental considerations within their operations.
Optional modules for Quest Plus also include the Exercise Referral Standard, which provides a set of quality operating standards to help
drive improvements and consistency in scheme delivery, and Accessible Facilities, which helps sites meet their design and operational obligations for different user groups.
The Quest contract forms part of Sport England’s Moving Communities, which was set up in 2021 to provide data and insights across the sport and leisure sector to help decision-makers maximise the impact of investment in physical activity.
Headline statistics from facilities undertaking Quest feed into the service delivery section of Moving Communities to enable industry benchmarking across a range of modules.
Moving Communities is led by 4Global, in collaboration with Sheffield Hallam University, Active Insight and Right Directions.
NATIONAL GYM OF THE YEAR
NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR
HEALTH CLUB OF THE YEAR
BEST HOTEL & SPA FACILITY OF THE YEAR
CUSTOMER SERVICE AWARD
LADIES ONLY GYM OF THE YEAR
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LOCAL AUTHORITY/LEISURE TRUST GYM OF THE YEAR
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FUNCTIONAL TRAINING GYM OF THE YEAR
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GYM OF THE YEAR - SCOTLAND & NORTHERN IRELAND
GYM OF THE YEAR - NORTH
GYM OF THE YEAR - SOUTH
GYM OF THE YEAR - MIDLANDS & WALES
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BEST MEMBERSHIP CAMPAIGN
SPONSORED BY
SPORT for Confidence CIC has teamed up with the Activity Alliance to launch ‘Include to Improve’, a twoyear programme designed to create more opportunities for disabled people to take part, volunteer and work in sport and physical activity.
Backed by Sport England’s Recover and Reinvent fund, the initiative will tackle the barriers hindering disabled people’s full participation, particularly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and cost-ofliving crisis.
“Everyone has a right to experience physical activity and sport, which, for the individual can empower, provide meaningful choice, and a sense of belonging while also strengthening communities and driving economic growth,” said Aimee Nuttall, occupational therapist and Include to Improve lead, Sport for Confidence.
“This new programme embodies this ethos by prioritising the needs, aspirations, and lived experiences of disabled people, working with partners to reshape the landscape of physical activity and sport.” Disabled people continue to face significant obstacles in accessing these opportunities.
In 2023 the employment rate for disabled people stood at just 53 per cent compared to 82 per cent for non-disabled individuals.
Many feel overlooked and
underrepresented, struggling to see people like themselves working in sport and physical activity. Include to Improve will reshape this reality through meaningful collaboration with individuals, organisations, and strategic partners dedicated to creating sustainable opportunities and systemic change.
A key element of the programme is the creation of a Lived Experience Network, providing a safe and supportive space for disabled people to share their insights and experiences. Families, carers and supporters of those unable to share their own perspectives will also be encouraged to contribute.
This knowledge will shape the programme’s direction and help establish best practices for disabled people to volunteer and work in
sport and physical activity.
A Strategic Partner Network will also be established to unite organisations from across sectors, including disability sports bodies, health services, and the leisure industry. the group will work together to develop sustainable, inclusive solutions.
With Sport for Confidence and Activity Alliance’s support, partners will be equipped to enhance existing services or pioneer new approaches, with funding available to help bring innovative ideas to life. Include to Improve also champions innovation, bringing occupational therapists and peer support workers together in a partnership traditionally reserved for mental health settings.
This collaboration harnesses shared values and complementary
skills to drive meaningful change across all areas of sport and physical activity.
By recognising the complex personal, occupational, and environmental factors influencing participation, occupational therapists identify barriers and facilitators at multiple system levels, applying therapeutic expertise to remove obstacles and create opportunities.
Evidence from the Improving Lives, Saving Money report highlights the need for occupational therapists to be more accessible in existing and emerging spaces to help reduce the disability employment gap.
By centring the voices of lived experience, Include to Improve will not only showcase best practice but also explore new ways of working to support long-term, impactful change.
Jannine Walker, head of events and programmes at Activity Alliance, added: “We’re excited to connect and collaborate with a community of people and organisations who share the same vision.
“Together, our Lived Experience Network members and strategic partners will share good practice, identify gaps in delivery and develop creative solutions to increase the number of high-quality, accessible opportunities for disabled people to take part, volunteer, and work in sport and activity.”
SNAP Fitness has announced the relaunch of its BeneFITs programme, providing members with exclusive perks and offers through a new strategic partnership with Endurance Zone.
Designed to enhance the member experience, this refreshed programme will give Snap Fitness’ membership base around the world access to exclusive discounts and benefits that support their health, fitness and wellbeing journeys.
The BeneFITs programme reinforces the operator’s commitment to delivering more than just a gym membership.
Members will gain access to curated offers from leading brands that align with their active lifestyles, helping them stay motivated and engaged inside and outside the gym.
“Our mission extends beyond providing a great in gym experience; we’re dedicated to supporting our members’ overall wellbeing,” said Rose Minar, chief marketing and experience officer of Snap Fitness.
“With the relaunch of our BeneFITs programme we’re giving members even more value from their memberships, connecting them with exclusive offers that complement their health and fitness goals and active lifestyles across a wide range of popular lifestyle brands.”
How the Snap Fitness BeneFITs programme works, in partnership with Endurance Zone:
n Exclusive brand discounts –Members can enjoy special offers and savings from top health, fitness, and lifestyle brands.
n Perks for activity – From fitness gear and nutrition products to wellness services, the BeneFITs programme provides valuable deals to enhance members’ health and fitness journeys. n Seamless access – Members can browse and redeem their
benefits effortlessly through The Snap Fitness Member App, making it easier than ever to take advantage of these exclusive perks.
The partnership with Endurance Zone brings a highly personalised and dynamic approach to the BeneFITs programme, ensuring members receive relevant and valuable perks tailored to their fitness and lifestyle needs.
David Birch, CEO of Endurance Zone, added: “We’re excited to work with Snap Fitness to provide a member experience that goes beyond the gym floor.
“Our platform will deliver exclusive, high-value offers that align with the needs of Snap Fitness members, helping them stay engaged and motivated on their fitness journeys.
“By integrating this enhanced BeneFITs programme into The Snap Fitness Member App, Snap Fitness continues to evolve its member experience, reinforcing our commitment to create positive lifestyle habits that make our members feel fantastic.”
TWO years after a leisure centre at the heart of the local Belper community was due to close its doors for good, its operators have announced a venue ‘fit for the future.’
Belper Leisure Centre Limited and Trilogy Active recently formally merged, with Belper Leisure becoming part of Trilogy Active.
“This formal merger protects the interest of both organisations, reducing duplication, reducing cost, streamlining process and financially stabilising Belper Leisure Centre,” said John Fletcher, managing director of Trilogy Active.
Since Trilogy Active stepped in during summer 2023 there has been ongoing investment into the leisure centre, with the introduction of a pool cover to save energy, LED lighting upgrades, replacement of the pool air handling unit, a refresh of the dance and spin studio and general improvements and a décor refresh around the centre.
“We are delighted to formally announce this merger and with it our commitment to continue to reinvest into the centre with a full gym upgrade and a rebrand planned
for the coming months.” John added.
Councillor Chris Emmas-Williams, leader of Amber Valley Borough Council, said: “This merger is fantastic news for Belper and for the future of the leisure centre.
“Belper Leisure Centre plays a vital role in supporting the health and wellbeing of our community, and this partnership with Trilogy Active brings long-term stability and a clear vision for the years ahead.
“The progress made over the past two years has been impressive, and we’re grateful to everyone involved for their commitment to securing a
positive future for this vital facility. We look forward to seeing the centre thrive for many years to come.”
Under the partnership over the last two years there has been significant work and development in the background of the management of Belper Leisure Centre with website and social media development, and the planned upgrading of the leisure management software which will improve the customer’s digital journey.
“These important investment changes will enable an improved customer journey for the local
community that we serve,” said John.
“It will also mean improved security for employees, stability for the leisure centre, expansion of the adult and junior programmes and the continued reinvestment in the facility.”
With the announcement of the formal merger Trilogy Active has thanked all the key stakeholders and partners of Belper Leisure Centre for their ongoing support which had enabled the facility to develop further and continue to support the community of Belper.
“There is no doubt that the community of Belper has come together and worked together to ensure the future of its leisure centre is secure,” added John. “It is because of that commitment and work that we can announce this merger which firms up the future of the centre.”
Trilogy Active operates Cripps Recreation Centre, Danes Camp, Duston Sports Centre, Lings Forum, The Mounts Baths and the Forum Cinema in Northampton as well as Belper Leisure Centre and Berzerk Active Play Centres in Northampton, Derby and Birmingham.
AS THE UK fitness industry continues to evolve in the face of shifting consumer behaviours and rising demand for accessible, high-quality fitness solutions, at PSLT we are taking bold strides to stay ahead of the curve.
As we dive deeper into 2025, our company’s strategic diversification is a clear signal of our commitment to leading the way in innovation, affordability, and performance across both commercial and home fitness sectors.
We will be retaining our existing pillars of key solutions to the industry – product, service logistics and trade.
But we have simply expanded our product offering.
At the heart of this growth is the introduction of a new, carefully
curated equipment line from DHZ — a globally respected brand known for its robust, functional and stylish gym solutions.
Now acting as a UK distributor for DHZ, we are opening up new possibilities for gym owners and fitness professionals seeking reliable equipment that doesn’t compromise on quality or value.
This collaboration allows us to further strengthen its footprint in the commercial fitness space while ensuring affordability remains central to its offer.
In parallel, we have also broadened our appeal to the digital and connected fitness market with the addition of the SPLAN Fitness Mirror.
Available in both home and commercial models, the SPLAN
Mirror represents a significant leap forward in immersive, interactive fitness experiences.
Designed to offer guided workouts, real-time feedback, and an engaging virtual interface, this addition marks a new era of smart fitness for our existing and new customer base.
These strategic product additions underscore our agile and forwardthinking approach.
By integrating technology-driven solutions like SPLAN with the triedand-tested performance of DHZ equipment, the company is uniquely positioned to serve a wide spectrum of fitness environments – from boutique studios and large-scale gyms to home fitness enthusiasts seeking more engaging and effective workouts.
Managing director Graham Bertrand said: “This diversification isn’t just about product variety; it’s about ensuring long-term resilience and relevance in a highly competitive market.
“Our company’s ethos has always been about delivering the best-inclass solutions, be that in service, logistics, trade and refurbished equipment, and this next chapter reaffirms that promise with a sharper, more innovative edge.
“Our expanded offering not only enhances its value proposition but also solidifies its role as a key player shaping the future of UK fitness.
“With strong partners, forwardlooking products, and a relentless focus on customer needs, PSLT is not just evolving – it’s leading.”
BOLSOVER District Council’s Wellness Hub is generating more than £760,000 in social value in one of England’s most deprived districts.
The Wellness Hub at The Arc in Clowne, launched in 2021 with more than £120,000 of Covid-19 recovery funding. Located in Bolsover, Derbyshire, where life expectancy levels are well below the national average and which has significant rates of chronic health conditions, the Hub supports local residents to improve their physical health, combat social isolation and mental health issues.
The facility is equipped with Innerva’s full circuit of specialist power-assisted exercise equipment offering an accessible entry point to physical activity for those with
limited mobility, complex health conditions or even just anxiety around using traditional gyms.
“The Hub is a good feeder for our wider activities, such as low-impact exercise classes, which are a natural progression for those looking to increase their activity levels,” said Craig Barnes, active lifestyles manager at Bolsover District Council.
Bolsover District Council’s latest research shows the Wellness Hub has delivered £760,000 in savings in the past year alone through improved health outcomes and reduced demand on local healthcare services.
Users report significant gains in mobility, flexibility, strength and cardiovascular fitness.
With a fast-growing membership
of more than 300, the Wellness Hub now delivers 18 sessions a week. Monthly fees range from £22 to £30 and include access to gym facilities and additional wellness programmes.
The Wellness Hub partners with six hospitals, local GPs and other health professionals.
Nurses deliver Phase 3 rehabilitation on site, while all staff are trained in Phase 4 cardiac, cancer and pulmonary rehab to support those with complex health needs, including stroke rehabilitation, cancer recovery, cardiovascular issues, pulmonary problems and Parkinson’s disease.
Many members join the Wellness Hub through the council’s PALS (Physical Activity and Lifestyle
Support) programme, which is designed to help residents overcome barriers to exercise such as financial hardship, transport issue and social isolation.
The Hub serves as a community hub with many members arriving early for the social interaction.
Laura Childs, marketing and communications manager at Innerva, added: “We’re so proud to see how the Wellness Hub is transforming the lives of people in Bolsover.
“Facilities like this are vital for removing barriers to physical activity.
“The fact that the Hub has generated more than £760,000 in social value just shows the impact of inclusive wellness.”
GILL Cummings-Bell BA(Hons), MSc, PGCE, MBA, will step down from the role of EMD UK’s CEO later this year following an interim tenure marked by strategic advocacy and a deep commitment to transforming professional recognition, providing a unified voice and driving the collective strength of the group exercise workforce.
During her two years at the helm, Gill has driven a period of exemplary evolution and impact.
Membership has grown tenfold, with the organisation today supporting the interests of more than 18,000 group exercise professionals.
This growth has established EMD UK, the only national governing body for group exercise, as the largest and most influential body in the UK championing the interests and rallying the collective strength of group exercise professionals.
Throughout her term, Gill has led efforts to establish group exercise instructors as community movement mentors, fully equipped to work alongside health professionals in the delivery of interventions that drive positive health outcomes and
Gill Cummings-Bell
play a critical role in supporting the NHS and tackling the national inactivity crisis.
She said: “It has been a privilege to lead EMD UK through its transformation and to champion the incredible work of group exercise instructors who are all too often the sector’s unsung heroes.
“Together with our partners myself and the amazing team at EMD UK have taken important steps to further professionalise the workforce, aligning more closely to the health sector and created better opportunities for
instructors and the communities they serve.”
One of Gill’s most significant achievements has been the introduction of a Scope of Practice model.
This pioneering work provides a clear professional recognition framework, aligned to that used within the health sector, that clarifies the knowledge, skills and responsibilities of individual group exercise instructors.
This work provides a significant foundational step in creating more integrated working between the group exercise and health workforces.
Gill has also overseen the team at EMD UK to develop a series of influential insight-driven reports that shine a light on the challenges, value and future potential of the group exercise workforce.
These include sector wide research into instructor pay disparity, the impact of the rising cost-of-living on group exercise instructors and a social value report that evidences the broader community impact of group exercise.
These insights have informed national conversations, fuelled government lobbying and driven
sector-wide awareness and positive change.
Under Gill’s leadership, EMD UK has also nurtured strong relationships with leading employers in both the public and private sector including Places Leisure and David Lloyd Leisure, as well as forming partnerships with other professional bodies such as the Society for the Pilates Method and the British Wheel of Yoga.
These relationships have created a more unified, professional and united landscape in which group exercise professionals can thrive.
Gill has also played a prominent role in national leadership forums including the NGB CEO forum, ensuring the voice of group exercise is consistently represented in cross-sector dialogue.
The process to recruit Gill’s successor is now underway with an appointment expected by the Autumn of this year.
The incoming leader will build on Gill’s legacy and steer EMD UK through its next phase of growth, continuing to advocate, resource and support the group exercise workforce and strengthen the community’s impact as a vital force for community health.
PARKWOOD Leisure and its sub-contractor Lex Leisure have announced the launch of The Accessible Subscription at Hengrove Park Leisure Centre – a flexible membership option designed to offer greater ease and freedom for individuals with registered disabilities, as part of their ongoing commitment to making physical activity accessible for the whole community.
A new pilot initiative, The Accessible Subscription will introduce a more adaptable approach to membership.
Offering a flexible, two or fourweek subscription, it provides full access to the centre’s facilities without the pressure of ongoing
monthly commitments.
Recognising that health conditions fluctuate, the membership also allows individuals to freeze at no cost, providing vital flexibility for periods of illness, medical appointments or recovery.
“We have a mission to create truly inclusive spaces for all, but accessibility isn’t just about physical infrastructure, it’s about creating opportunities that genuinely support people’s individual needs,” said Glen Hall, managing director at Parkwood Leisure.
“We are committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can access and enjoy the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle.
“Through targeted initiatives like the Accessible Subscription and ongoing investment in accessible technology, we are making this ambition a reality.”
Alongside this new membership, Hengrove Park Leisure Centre continues to enhance access with the introduction of the Poolpod – a specialist pool lift designed to provide a dignified and independent swimming experience for individuals with mobility challenges.
The Poolpod offers seamless and inclusive access into and out of the pool, either independently or with support from a caregiver or friend.
It is thoughtfully designed to accommodate a wide range of users, including: two seated adults,
a seated adult with two children, a wheelchair user and caregiver and individuals who prefer to remain standing.
Jo Morgan, manager at Hengrove Leisure Centre, added: “We know that for many people the thought of getting into a pool can feel daunting – whether due to mobility challenges, nerves or a lack of awareness about available support.
“The Poolpod is here to remove those barriers, giving more people the chance to experience the benefits of swimming.”
These initiatives form part of Parkwood Leisure’s wider strategy to enhance accessibility and inclusivity across all its centres.
ALLIANCE Leisure has started work on the £14million redevelopment of the Doncaster Dome leisure complex for Doncaster Culture and Leisure Trust.
The leisure development specialist is leading the extensive refurbishment and upgrade of the Dome’s Lagoons area.
The project aims to modernise the pool complex, while preserving the character of the Grade II listed building, which opened in 1989 and was listed in 2023 becoming one of the youngest listed buildings in the country.
Sean Nolan, business development manager at Alliance Leisure, said: “Having supported DCLT with the initial options appraisal, we understand the importance of preserving the Lagoon’s unique character while ensuring it meets the needs of modern visitors.
“This is a hugely popular facility in the community and this refurbishment will help secure its long-term future.”
The Dome’s Lagoons area closed in November 2024. Completed in
two phases, the initial phase of the refurbishment will focus primarily on essential maintenance works and upgrades to enhance the overall functionality and efficiency of the centre.
This includes removing and replacing ageing M&E systems, including pool filtration and
ventilation, stripping out the existing flumes, water play equipment and changing area, and refitting the plant room.
Renovation of the pool hall roof, glazing and flume tower will also be undertaken.
Several new features will be introduced to enhance the visitor
experience. These include two new racer slides and a new indoor splash play area for families with a variety of interactive water features, designed by Myrtha Pools.
The changing village and toilets will also be refitted and refurbished as part of the works.
The project is being delivered through the UK Leisure Framework, owned and managed by Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, and is expected to take approximately 12 months, with a target reopening date in early 2026.
The project team includes architects Saunders Boston, main contractor Universal Group, CGP and Hensall delivering M&E services and swimming pool engineers FT Leisure.
Alliance Leisure is currently working on the redevelopment of Doncaster Dome’s sister site Thorne Leisure Centre.
The £5.9million project will introduce a variety of modern fitness, play and leisure facilities to the 1960s-built centre.
COUNCILLORS from Swale Borough Council were joined by Alliance Leisure and other community providers including a GP Surgery, Sheppey Matters, Swale Community Leisure and representatives from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to celebrate the start of enabling and outside development works in Sheerness that will breathe new life into health and leisure provision for the people of Sheerness at Beachfields.
The development is part of a wider £20million Sheerness Revival programme, funded by the UK government, that will see the complete re-imagining of the Beachfields site.
Located near Sheerness town centre, the waterfront, and the train station on the Isle of Sheppey, once complete, the site will deliver outstanding modern, communityfocused health and leisure facilities, improved education facilities and employment opportunities.
Coun. Monique Bonney, chair of the council’s economy and property committee, said: “It is good to see a spade in the ground on this project.
“Working alongside Alliance Leisure, through the UK Leisure Framework, we have gathered a team of leisure development specialists to deliver this project including Etec as Principal Contractors, GT3 Architects and Varsity Consulting.
“This project will provide health and leisure facilities that will effectively serve the community for many generations to come.”
The Beachfields site currently hosts a leisure complex, healthy living centre (including a GP surgery and local wellbeing charity), play area, paddling pool, and green space.
Works underway include enabling works and the redevelopment of the outside attractions including an adventure golf course, outdoor gym and enhanced landscaping connecting the leisure centre to Sheerness train station via improved pathways.
These works are expected to complete by the end of July ready for the summer holidays, paving the way for the next phase which will include:
n Regenerate Sheppey Leisure Centre: A reconfigured and extended facility featuring a new fitness suite, purpose-built studios, and upgraded changing facilities.
n Expanded GP surgery relocated and expanded within the leisure centre.
n New TAGActive zone and dedicated adventure play area, modern café and reception.
n Elimination of on-site gas use,
replaced with energy-efficient air source heat pumps, ensuring compliance with biodiversity net gain requirements and supporting the council’s net zero targets.
Chris Ames, business development manager at Alliance Leisure, added: “This is a flagship development for the local community and one which has the potential to positively impact the lives of everyone living in Sheerness.
“Once complete, the modern leisure facilities will stand out as a jewel in the crown, attracting visitors not just from the locality but also further afield, driving economic growth and prosperity for the region. We look forward to working closely with Swale Borough Council to deliver this iconic project.”
The £20million Sheerness Revival project also includes an extension to EKC Sheppey College, which will expand educational opportunities in the area, and the refurbishment of former council offices and conversion of garage space into creative workshops to foster arts and enterprise at Masters House. These government-funded projects, while separate from Alliance Leisure’s work, complement the redevelopment of Beachfields and collectively contribute to a holistic vision for Sheerness’ future through Swale Borough Council. Works are expected to complete in July 2026.
ZOOM Media is putting data front and centre of its business solutions with Connected TV advertising – GymTV+.
The new platform moves operators from the old style linear TV to a programmatic-enabled service, allowing content to be tailored to the specific audience present in the gym, ensuring the content is relevant and ultimately helping operators generate additional revenue.
Places Leisure will be the first major operator to take the new GymTV+ with livegood, alongside a fully curated music service.
The nationwide leisure operator has partnered with Zoom Media for more than 14 years and with this partnership renewal is extending its content offer for members and rolling out this new connected advertising across all UK sites.
Sarah Roberts, head of fitness at Places Leisure, said: “We are always looking for solutions that allow us to improve our onsite customer experience and drive revenue streams.
“We have been working with Zoom Media for over 14 years, and this extension of
the partnership is a result of its commitment to driving innovation and development in response to the industry’s needs, alongside bespoke solutions for our business.”
Supporting this rollout is a larger behind-the-scenes change with Zoom Media bringing all elements of GymTV back under its control, once again operating the full end-to-end delivery including back-end management and music curation.
to programmatic and Connected TV.
Ferne Langford, Zoom Media strategic partnership director, added: “It’s an exciting time as this marks the first stage of a larger scale repositioning of the Zoom Media brand.
“We’ve been working in the background for over three years to respond to the needs of the gym and leisure industry,
particularly looking at the rising and prohibitive costs of VPL licensing and how we can become a collaborative partner to simplify processes for gyms.
“Over the past 12 months we have driven increased demand for our gyms and their audience, and as the platform has grown, so has revenue.
“The past year has seen incredible growth of 284 per cent for programmatic in the leisure industry.”
The change marks the start of Zoom Media’s transition to an ecosystem giving operators granular detail on client data and the ability for advertising to become hyper-targeted.
Zoom Media’s transition to a data-first business model will enable the right product to be in front of a finely tuned target audience and shown at the right time.
In short, the value of the gym audience is going to increase as these changes are rolled out, making advertising more valuable for brands, alongside ensuring gym goers are served with relevant content that supports and enhances their visits.
BALANCED Body partnered with Independent Gyms to welcome inspiring women from across the fitness industry for an afternoon of movement, connection and inspiration at the Thames Club in Staines, Surrey.
Blending wellness with networking, the Women in Fitness event, owned by Independent Gyms, was designed to empower, challenge and unite.
Guests were treated to a line-up of group activities, including a Reformer Pilates session in the club’s dedicated studio, fully equipped with Balanced Body’s Allegro® Reformers, alongside a Les Mills Shapes class and The
Thames Club’s own POWER HIIT, Hot Yoga and gym-based strength sessions.
After working up a sweat, attendees came together for networking over hot and cold refreshments and a glass of Prosecco.
Amy Ritson, event host and partnership manager at Independent Gyms, said: “This was our second Women in Fitness event and the energy has been amazing.
“Movement is a powerful connector, and it was wonderful to see everyone embracing the chance to try something new, share experiences and get to
know each other better over a glass of Prosecco.
“Events like this remind us just how strong the independent sector, and the women driving it, really is.”
Balanced Body, a long-time supporter of Independent Gyms, brought an extra layer of flair to the day.
Attendees were gifted custom Pilates socks and captured in action by a professional photographer, with images made available post-event to share across social platforms.
Katya Ryzhova, UK business development manager at Balanced Body, added: “We
loved being part of this uplifting celebration of women in fitness.
“Pilates continues to be one of the hottest and biggest growing trends in fitness, thanks to its incredible diversity and appeal.
“This event provided the perfect setting to showcase its benefits to those working in the fitness sector.”
The event also shone a light on The Thames Club’s transformation, following a complete refurbishment, to include a dedicated Reformer Pilates studio, powered by Balanced Body equipment and education.
THE sector’s health and safety and quality management expert, Right Directions, has been awarded the industry’s contract to deliver the assessments for ukactive’s The Active Standard.
TAS is designed to give customers confidence, knowing leisure providers showing the TAS mark are taking their health and wellbeing, as well as their safety, seriously.
Initially launched by ukactive in November 2024, Right Directions was instrumental in the pilot phase of TAS, meticulously testing the assessment with a representative sample of operators to ensure the certification is fit for purpose for organisations of all types and sizes.
TAS accreditation is free to any sport, fitness or leisure facility in the UK that is a member of ukactive and is achieved through a 40-question independent assessment with Right Directions.
It covers health and safety practices, professional standards, safeguarding procedures and data protection processes. Certification lasts three years before a re-assessment is required.
Managing director Caroline
Constantine, who led on the development and pilot of The Active Standard for Right Directions, said:
“The original assessment contained more than 100 questions for operators to answer and provide evidence for.
“Working through a detailed pilot, capturing feedback from the industry, we have now condensed this into a user-friendly system,
facilitated on Microsoft Teams, that encourages operators to actively get behind the quality mark.”
Developed over a four-year period by ukactive in partnership with leading standards professionals and organisations across the UK and Europe, including Right Directions, TAS is now compulsory for ukactive member operators.
It has been designed as a
foundation and baseline certification and means operators can further progress their level of standards through other quality marks such as Sport England’s Quest, which is also delivered by Right Directions, and EuropeActive/NEN’s FITcert, without duplication.
Any facility that has actively achieved Quest or FitCert against the preferred sampling metric for TAS, does not need to be assessed for TAS.
Huw Edwards, CEO of ukactive, added: “The Active Standard is a major benefit for ukactive members and we’re grateful to be working alongside organisations like Right Directions, that are helping to raise the standards of health and safety and inclusion across our sector, so more people can access and enjoy the benefits of being active.
“With our sector seeing an increasing demand for its services as more people across the UK and Europe prioritise physical activity for their own health and wellbeing, we know the value health and safety standards have for consumers and we’d encourage all members to utilise this opportunity.”
