Workout April 2013

April 2013

The UK’s No 1 fitness industry magazine

Operators urged to back Daniel’s VAT campaign

By Christina Eccles INDEPENDENT gym manager Daniel Sanger has urged operators to form a collective voice and get behind his campaign to address the VAT problem facing many private clubs.

Daniel is general manager at Isenhurst Health Clubs, a group of three family run gyms in East Sussex – the oldest of which has been in business for over 17 years.

Each club pays about £65,000 in VAT and £35,000 in business rates each year but Daniel claims it’s unfair some other local gyms are exempt from these payments because they operate as not for profit trusts.

Daniel recently shared his concerns with public figures – including local councillor Jonica Fox and Wealden MP Charles Hendry – and after being advised he could benefit from contacting the Commission Competition, now hopes to form a group of like minded gym owners to put forward a stronger case.

Daniel said: “The consensus is the next step is to approach the Competition Commission with our plight. Letting them know about the lost revenue to the Government through the tax relief [not for profit

trusts] receive and the highly uneven playing field created by allowing this to happen. They need to know businesses are losing their battle almost solely because their prices are hiked up by the addition of VAT. “I am ready to approach the Competition Commission but all the advice I have received from my meetings suggests we have more of a chance in making a change if we form a group and go to them as an industry and not individuals. As gym owners and operators we have a duty to our staff and our members to effect a change.”

Daniel has set up a dedicated e-mail address – dsisenhurst@btinternet.com – for gym owners interested in getting behind the campaign and told Workout he would be happy to hear from anyone who can help.

He added: “What I am hoping to do is to get my details out to gym owners and put us all in contact at which point I can send out a questionnaire to each of them with the hope of building a case with some realistic facts and figures.

“I believe it is our job to make the Government aware and let them level the playing field. If companies like us disappear the hole in the government’s budget will only grow.”

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Functional training category launched

Virgin Active has partnered with tennis star Laura Robson and former British number one Andrew Castle to launch a new tennis offering across its 21 health and racquet clubs. Laura, who trained at the operator’s Chiswick Riverside club in her early years, will also act as an ambassador for the Virgin Active Junior Tennis Academy, which is designed for members aged three to 16.

I Full story, Page 5.

GYMS which specialise in functional fitness now have the chance to be recognised with a National Fitness Award, with the launch of a new dedicated category for the 2013 event.

Functional Training Gym of the Year is aimed at clubs which are either solely dedicated to functional fitness or have diversified and created their own functional area to tap into this growing trend.

Gyms entering should provide details of why they chose to focus on functional fitness, any specialist equipment they have which makes them stand out from the crowd and the impressive results their members have generated from working out this way.

Nominations for this and all of the other available categories can be made by visiting the new look NFA website at www.nationalfitnessawards.co.uk Trophies will be handed out to the lucky winners at a glittering ceremony, which this year will be held at The Palace Hotel in Manchester on Friday December 6.

I For more information about the 2013 NFAs, see inside.

UK FITNESS SCENE

Rick saddles up for bike marathon for charity

By Christina Eccles A DETERMINED instructor is organising a 12-hour fitness marathon using indoor bikes, KRANKcycles and rowing machines, with the aim of raising £25,000 for Cancer Research UK. The Ride of Hope Three is a day made up of 12 individual, 50-minute rides led by instructors from around the world.

It takes place on August 10 at the Brighton Centre in East Sussex and will be the third Ride of Hope Rick Goodchild has organised, following the success of two previous events.

He explained: “In 2011, I was asked to make a donation to a friend, Erik Mulder, who was attempting to climb Mont Ventoux five times in one day, in memory of his sister who had passed away from cancer.

“I offered to make a donation of £50 to his cause or take that £50 and somehow turn it into £5,000.

“The decision was made to do the latter and The Ride of Hope was created.”

At the first Ride of Hope in 2011, 25 people took part in a four-hour event, raising £6,500 for charity.

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A week long event has taken place to encourage more people to get into exercise. International Fitness Week – powered by Fitness First – was launched by Olympic and world cycling champion Victoria Pendleton. The event saw Fitness First gyms offering free gym passes, with the operator also creating daily themes to inspire participants to try new activities.

The following year, numbers increased again, with 60 people raising £11,500 in six hours.

And this year’s event is on course to be the biggest yet – already attracting support from major industry suppliers including Matrix Fitness and MYZONE. Rick added: “Participants will be able to ride as little or as much as they want to, from one ride to all 12 – many people will be riding the full 12 hours.

“We are anticipating near to 1,000 people to be a part of this amazing event, which will amount to a lot of emotion and energy for a tremendous cause that is so close to so many of our hearts.”

Although the event doesn’t take place until August, Rick is already looking forward to seeing it unfold and told Workout he has had many bookings from riders keen to take part.

He added: “At the moment our clients are booking up like crazy and many are booking for the whole 12 hours. The commitment level has just been amazing.”

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UK FITNESS SCENE

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Tennis stars help operator to launch new initiative

By Chistina Eccles HEALTH club operator Virgin Active has launched a new drive to engage more members in tennis.

The company, which has over 100 clubs nationwide, has partnered with female tennis star Laura Robson and former British number one player Andrew Castle to create a tennis focused offering across its portfolio of 21 health and racquet clubs.

The campaign includes:

Laura Robson

Mini Tennis – a fun tennis programme for three to 10 year olds that uses smaller courts, nets and racquets , offering a quality introduction.

Junior Tennis Academy – open to members three to 16, providing talented youngsters with a place to hone their tennis skills. Laura will also be acting as an ambassador for the academy.

Cardio Tennis – a series of tennisbased drills and activities played to up-tempo music on a tennis court.

Tennis Xpress – an active and dynamic introduction for starter adult players to help them learn the game.

Shot of the Day – 30 minute sessions which each focus on a new shot.

Adult tennis lessons – giving members the chance to learn tennis skills on a one to one basis with a trained instructor.

Head of racquets Gary Stewart said: “Virgin Active is dedicated to ensuring that its racquets offering is the best in the UK, which is why we have taken the unprecedented step of creating a complete package that falls within the membership cost.

“Laura Robson and Andrew Castle will both help to give tennis and other racquet sports broad scale appeal across all age ranges. We look forward to following Laura’s success in

Commercial director of the Lawn Tennis Association Lawrence Robertson, Sir Richard Branson and Gary Stewart. the lead up to this year’s Wimbledon.”

Virgin Active has also recently become the official health club of British Tennis, following a three-year deal with the Lawn Tennis Association.

Gary said: “It’s an absolute privilege for Virgin Active to partner with the

LTA. As a governing body, the LTA’s overall purpose mirrors that of Virgin Active – to continue to grow and sustain the sport, nurture young talent and increase participation while highlighting that tennis is a fun, affordable, family sport as well as a great way to get fit.”

UK FITNESS SCENE

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Cybex install equipment at keeper’s CYBEX International UK has installed equipment at the home gym of England and Manchester City footballer Joe Hart.

His new facility includes a treadmill and upright cycle from the 770 series – Cybex’s ‘best in class’ cardiovascular range – and a Big Iron power rack complete with lifting bar and plates.

Both the treadmill and cycle, alongside the Big Iron, were custom made with white frames and black upholstery, a bespoke option chosen by Joe. Also installed was an adjustable bench, dumbbells with rack, specialised free weight flooring and a rowing machine.

National key account manager Alan Ellis said: “As a professional athlete who is at the top of his game, it is essential that Joe Hart maintains his high levels of strength and conditioning that are so crucial to his success, whether that’s using his club’s facilities at Carrington Training Centre or, now, his home gym. The equipment installed will provide Joe with a home workout programme to complement his training regime and to have a sportsman of Joe Hart’s status choose Cybex demonstrates the quality and excellence of our equipment.”

Famous faces take part in cult dance routine TWO famous faces popped into a new boxing gym in north London to take part in a special version of cult dance routine Harlem Shake.

Reality TV star Mark Wright and model and presenter Myleene Klass both regularly work out at Vbox in Mill Hill and through training there have become friends with club owner Vincent Mitchell.

He recently invited them down to take part in a special Vbox version of the Harlem Shake – inspired by the latest dance craze currently sweeping the nation.

Footage of the pair leading a group through the routine was then uploaded to video sharing website YouTube and has since been viewed over 70,000 times – generating priceless publicity for the gym.

Vincent said: “VBox is an inspiring way to work out and since Myleene Klass and Mark Wright train at VBox, I wanted to find a way to let people know that working out can be fun and looking good isn’t always about struggling on your own on a treadmill.

“A class type environment is always more fun than motivating yourself and since the Harlem Shake has gone global, I decided to do our own VBox take on it. Myleene and Mark are incredible to work with. Just look at their bodies and you will see it really is worth coming to VBox.

Myleene Klass and Mark Wright.

UK FITNESS SCENE

Martin Fox and Dave Hudson from Hillsborough Leisure Centre with Ronnie Davis.

Cardiac arrest survivors thank life-saving staff TWO survivors of cardiac arrest have returned to a Sheffield leisure centre to thank the staff who saved their lives.

Martin Fox and Ronnie Davis paid a visit to Hillsborough Leisure Centre where they met the staff who administered life-saving treatment after they suffered serious heart problems.

Both men lost consciousness as a result of heart malfunction during the same week in December 2012. Martin collapsed while playing five-a-side football at the leisure centre, and Ronnie, on a separate occasion, collapsed in the swimming pool.

Quick-thinking leisure centre staff used an Automated Electronic Defibrillator donated by Sheffieldbased health insurer Westfield Health

to perform continued life-saving treatments until an ambulance arrived.

General manager Tim Hicks said: “We are immensely proud of our leisure centre staff who, thanks to their fast instincts and high level of training, were able to save the men from potentially life-threatening situations.

“Hillsborough Leisure Centre is committed to providing the highest level of safety training to all our instructors and employees, and it was great to see Martin and Ronnie back and on the mend.”

Staff were commended by the Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust for their actions and a given a Lifesaving Achievement Award.

Centre introduces MYZONE COLNE Valley Leisure Centre has successfully introduced the MYZONE system into its Body Attack class.

Participants who were wearing MYZONE belts were able to watch their exercise data live – including number of calories burned, heart

rate and effort – on a large screen during the class. Following positive feedback from the launch, the system will now be introduced into several other classes and become a permanent feature on the timetable – with members able to buy the belts directly from the centre.

Becky wins milestone prize TO celebrate reaching a milestone of 5,000 followers on Twitter, Workout teamed up with Affordable Supplements to offer one lucky winner a prize.

Anyone who ‘retweeted’ our competition tweet on the social networking site was entered into a draw to win a package worth £39.99 from the company, containing a tub of ASN Diet Whey Protein, CLA Ultra Pure and a tape measure.

Director at Affordable Supplements Ryan Millar said: “We support Workout magazine and I thought our best selling ASN Diet Whey Protein and CLA offer would provide a nice taster for our own range, which we have created as a lower cost alterna-

tive whilst maintaining the highest levels of quality.”

The lucky winner was Becky Lyndon – a personal trainer at Pennyhill Park Hotel and Spa in Surrey – who is pictured above with her prize.

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The Palace Hotel, Manchester will host the 2013 National Fitness Awards ceremony.

Nominations flood in for National Fitness Awards

By Christina Eccles NOMINATIONS have been flooding in for the 2013 National Fitness Awards, with gyms around the country already excited about this year’s event.

Clubs have been flocking to our new look website – www.nationalfitnessawards.co.uk – to find out more about the event and put themselves in with the chance of winning an award.

The event, organised by Script Events in conjunction with Workout and headline sponsor Servicesport is now in its fourth year and is going from strength to strength.

The free to enter awards recognise operators of all shapes and sizes, with categories up for grabs which reward the achievements of clubs, individual staff and gym members.

Once nominations have closed later

in the year, a shortlist will be drawn up in each category, with a representative from Workout visiting each club to compile a detailed report, which is then passed on to an expert panel of judges who will decide this year’s winners.

Trophies will be handed out at a glittering ceremony, which will act as a spectacular end of year party for the entire fitness industry.

This year’s awards ceremony takes place at the Palace Hotel in Manchester on Friday December 6, hosted by TV presenter and fitness expert Caroline Pearce (pictured right).

Strictly Come Dancing professionals Natalie Lowe and Ian Waite with the team at Watford Leisure Centre.

Swimmer joins dancers to launch new class SIX times world champion swimmer Mark Foster has teamed up with Strictly Come Dancing professionals Natalie Lowe and Ian Waite to create a new dance-based fitness class.

To develop Fitsteps, the trio worked closely with health and fitness professionals to develop a varied routine, which incorporates popular Latin and ballroom dances with proven fitness techniques.

The concept has already been picked up by leisure centre operator Everyone Active which recently held two successful preview classes at its Watford Leisure Centre Woodside venue.

Group fitness development manager Michelle Bletso said: “We really liked the idea of Fitsteps but the true test is to see how members enjoy the routine.

“We hosted two one-hour preview classes and I have to say they proved extremely popular and convinced us Fitsteps has great potential.

“The next stage is for the Fitsteps team to train our trainers so that we can add the class to our timetables.

The training will take a few months and I’d like to think we will see Fitsteps on our new Autumn schedules.”

UK FITNESS SCENE The public’s attitudes towards health and fitness can have a significant impact on the industry’s success. Leisure-net Solutions’ latest Health and Fitness Omnibus Survey, now in its 10th year, revealed a step change in consumers’ perceptions – and some interesting details to help shape future plans. Managing director of Leisure-net Solutions, Mike Hill told Workout more.

Olympics hasn’t led to more gym users IN the aftermath of the London 2012 Olympics, all thoughts have turned to the enduring legacy of the Games.

At first glance, the latest HAFOS reveals that watching the likes of Jessica Ennis and Mo Farah storm to success has indeed persuaded people to get off their sofas – when asked whether they thought the event had encouraged more of us to be physically active, overwhelmingly (76 per cent) of respondents said yes.

But in reality, only 22 per cent of people said the Games had encouraged them to be more active personally and less than a third of these have begun to visit a gym or health club as a result.

Mike said: “The message seems to be that although people feel the Olympics had a positive impact on the UK’s activity levels as a whole, this hasn’t necessarily translated into more bodies in leisure facilities, or taking up traditional sports.”

Despite this, overall consumers are finally getting the message about being more active. The HAFOS revealed more than 90 per cent of the population now realise regular exercise is important to their health and, as a result, people want to be more active: 51 per cent of respondents said they don’t exercise as much as they’d like.

But as an industry, we are still not harnessing this desire and using it to its full potential. The ‘grey market’ in

Mike Hill particular remains relatively unmoved by our sector – only 35 per cent of over 65s and 22 per cent of those aged 75 and over said they wished to be more active.

Mike added: “We need to focus on people’s motivating factors and provide services to meet that need. Over half (51 per cent) of respondents see exercise as a way to maintain their health; losing weight or improving body shape follow closely behind (18 per cent each).”

Other factors that people said would steer them to use leisure facilities included improved equipment and facilities (42 per cent), better programming (43 per cent), and better childcare provision (25 per cent).

“Despite these strong motivators,

more than a third of respondents still said they simply don’t have enough time to exercise more than they currently do. We should use knowledge like this to tailor our future services, programming, marketing materials and retention strategies.”

As ever, price also remains a factor.

Lower costs were quoted as a significant incentive to exercise by almost two thirds (62 per cent) of respondents, although interestingly only 13 per cent stated cost was actually a barrier for them.

“It’s worth noting that almost half of respondents (47 per cent) said more information would encourage them into leisure facilities.

“In an economic climate when lowering prices yet further may be impossible, operators should concentrate on these other details – taking time to provide well thought-out, easily accessible information – which can be simply and cheaply achieved, and could yield beneficial returns.”

The HAFOS is the only annual barometer of UK consumers’ attitudes towards health, fitness and physical activity. Now in its 10th consecutive year, the street-based consumer survey uses a national sample of more than 1,200 people, interviewed in five locations throughout England. To date, HAFOS has interviewed well over 15,000 people, making it the largest and longest running annual survey of its kind.

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Operator makes all its facilities available on website

LEISURE Connection has made its facilities available to customers through the payasUgym.com website.

All sites operated by Leisure Connection across the country are now searchable on the website, meaning consumers can pay for and book single, weekly or monthly usage passes online.

Customers will receive a code via SMS that will serve as an entry pass at their chosen gym.

Head of fitness marketing communications at Leisure Connection Kevin Yates said: “Health and fitness is a rapidly evolving industry, and it’s absolutely vital that large operators like ourselves keep abreast of new methods and technologies to engage the local community.

“Like all great technologies, payasUgym.com is based around a really simple idea: how to make going to the gym easier.

“It’s something that we are constantly trying to improve and we hope this online, external booking system will help convince those hard-to-reach demographics that getting active at your local gym is a piece of cake – with none of the calories of course.”

Co founder of payasUgym.com Neil Harmsworth added: “We are delighted to confirm this exciting partnership with Leisure Connection and look forward to providing online lead generation to its many fantastic clubs across the UK.”

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UK FITNESS SCENE

An independent gym celebrated 40 years in business by holding a fundraising event in aid of Cancer Research. Throughout the day, members at Dave’s Gym in Northwich took on various challenges including climbing the Eiffel Tower on a stepper, riding a marathon on a spin bike, completing a gym triathlon or bench pressing the weight of a car. Members were also encouraged to set themselves their own challenges – these included rowing the length of the English Channel in less than three hours and leg pressing the weight of a plane – and many also took part in a mammoth two and a half hour class. The club, which has over 2,000 members, raised over £7000 for the charity.

Pilates first for North East studio PRIVATE health clinic Body 2 Fit has become the only studio in the North East to boast a full suite of Pilates equipment.

Taking advantage of the increased profile of equipment-based Pilates, the studio has invested in a range of products including a Reformer, jump board, Cadillac and Trapeze table, stability chair, ladder barrel and baby arcs.

Pilates manager Angie Stirland said: “There is currently no other studio in the region which has Pilates equipment to this extent, so we’re delighted to be able to offer our clients the opportunity to take advantage of the full range.

“When we first introduced the equipment current clients were somewhat apprehensive, but now they have tried it out for themselves and understand the benefits they’ve really got on board and are coming back week after week.”

Rehab scheme leads to Phil’s new business A STROKE survivor and fitness enthusiast has used the rehabilitation scheme which helped him recover to create a new outdoor workout business.

Phil Walker from Trowbridge was left paralysed down his left side when he suffered a stroke three years ago while training in the gym. He had to undergo nine hours of brain surgery and had 52 staples put in his head.

To get himself back to full health, Phil devised his own outdoor exercise regime, incorporating natural resources such as trees and logs into his workouts.

Now fully recovered, he has joined forces with Matt Johns, director of environmental consultancy Johns Associates, to launch Wildfit – a new health and fitness company which designs outdoor fitness trails to get people in shape while enjoying the British countryside.

Phil said: “When I was recovering from my stroke I was at my lowest pos-

sible ebb. Learning to walk and do simple tasks again was a real fight.

“When I began trying to get fit again I didn't want to go back in the gym, my balance was so poor, so created an outdoor exercise regime for myself. It was then that I realised that exercising outdoors is better than exercising inside.”

Wildfit will use the expertise of Johns Associates to create environmentally friendly fitness courses and activity trails, using elements of the natural environment such as slopes, woodland, rocks and long grass.

Phil added: “When you are keeping fit outdoors your body and mind benefit from daylight, sunlight and fresh air, which doesn't happen when your pounding the treadmill in the gym, it also stimulates the brain cells, as you look to see where you step next.

“I'm really excited about launching this company with Johns Associates and using the beautiful British countryside to help British people get fit.”

Charity achieves environment award STEVENAGE Leisure has achieved the ISO14001 standard for its Environmental Management System, which minimises the leisure trust’s negative impact on the environment.

The charitable organisation, which manages 19 sites on behalf of five different local authorities, worked with quality management specialist Right Directions to achieve the award, which is held centrally by Stevenage Leisure for all its facilities.

Facilities director for Stevenage Leisure James Barker said: “For some time, we have identified the need for an EMS to be integrated with our quality and health and safety systems.

“ISO14001 Environmental Management Standard has always been our ultimate goal as it is a structured system, which looks at continuous improvement to manage and protect the environment for the

Stevenage Arts and Leisure Centre. benefit of our teams, customers and clients.

“Working in partnership with Right Directions we have produced and trained our staff on our EMS, which we have successfully demonstrated

in a Stage one and Stage two ISO14001 audit.

“We are extremely pleased with the award of ISO14001 and the fact that our assessment showed no significant areas for improvement.”

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The future of the fitness industry

By Dave Wright I WRITE this month’s article on my flight back from Las Vegas where the International Health Racquet and Sports club Association (IHRSA) had its annual global trade show and education conference.

It’s supposed to be where all the new trends, equipment, gadgets and technologies are displayed, all designed to help clubs ultimately get more and keep more members ... or to put it another way, to help clubs ‘make more money’ (and yes, to help pay for their kit!)

I’ve been attending IHRSA for the past two decades and I always pick up more knowledge from viewing clubs in the town and speaking to people than cruising the trade show floor. You meet so many interesting people and it reminded me how it was at IHRSA one year that I was fortunate enough to meet one club owner who on the topic of ‘mission statements', produced his key ring that had what he believed his club should stand for.

It wasn’t to do with long-winded mission statements and values to save the world ... it was three simple words: Clean, safe and friendly.

Let me explain: Clean: Make no mistake about it, ripped carpet, smelly change rooms, messy weight rooms, torn upholstery and no uniforms do not give the impression to a member that you care about the place that they are going to spend a lot of their time and money in. You don’t have to have shiny gold-plated sinks or white fluffy towels, but you have to offer a clean and spotless environment.

Particularly if you want to attract

the female population.

Safe: Although this might sound too basic, I can not stress the amount of times you train at a gym where exercises are performed incorrectly. Understanding your members and then guiding them to the appropriate activity that is in line with their goals, objectives and current fitness levels is key. But do you have the confidence to go up to someone who is doing an activity wrong and correct them? In many gyms around the world, people train incorrectly with the wrong advice and then cancel their memberships because they don’t get results and then club owners are left scratching their heads wondering why their attrition is so high.

The one skill set that we as an industry have is our expertise... we need to exploit that strength.

Friendly: Whether you like it or not, the ‘Yanks’ do friendly VERY well. They use your name when

they know it, they give you eye contact when they shake your hand, they seem genuinely interested when they speak to you. Is it because they are from a culture of rewarding good service with tips or is it because they are from a very heavily populated market place and they know that being good is no longer acceptable – you have to be great to succeed? Either way, do you or your staff wear their name badges? Do you greet every member as they enter the club by using their name and say goodbye when they leave? Could you or your staff pick 10 people in the gym at any one time and know something about them that could only be found out if you’d had an engaging conversation with them? If you can do all this with a smile, then you will have ticked this box. If not, then you have an opportunity to improve.

So there it is ... no buttons, screens, belts or ‘eco-systems’, just simple ways to improve your club to get more and keep more members. Is it the future of the fitness industry or do you think it will be the same story in another 20 years’ time?

Dave Wright is the CEO of CFM/MYZONE, a global company with over 300 staff that have served the international fitness community for over 23 years; focusing on either getting new members and/or keeping existing ones. Dave is also the owner of 11 health clubs across two continents, a board director of ukactive, founder of IOU (Independent Operators Unite), an IHRSA presenter and the creator of MYZONE. He may be contacted on Dave.Wright@cfm.net

May 1 2013 is fast approaching and marks the start of large scale changes to the way we pay for our music within the fitness industry. The experts at Pure Energy explain more.

How PPL licence changes will impact on gyms OVER the last three years, ukactive and PPL have been working to develop the new pricing structure and collection methods which will see fitness clubs and leisure centres begin to bear more of the responsibility for paying the fees due for using music in their venues. Up until now, the onus has been on the instructor leading the class.

Instructors working in venues that don't currently account to PPL (for example a village hall) will still pay for their own licence fees, however they will now pay per class, rather than a flat rate per year.

Although PPL, ukactive and music organisations such as Pure Energy have been very pro-active in publishing information about the licence changes, it's only natural that instructors and centre managers alike still have questions and concerns about how the licence affects them or their business.

How Pure Energy Can Help Pure Energy is the leading producer of original artist music mixes specifically tailored for the fitness profes-

sional. The products cover every aerobic discipline, incorporating both current and retro music.

We offer membership packages tailored to health and fitness clubs running multiple classes, which include a PPL licence and a bespoke music allowance delivered as CD or digital download, with multi-site options and much more.

Whilst we recognise that the PPL changes are a positive move in the industry, we understand that the changes may effect the budgets of some gyms and health clubs.

However, Pure Energy can work with you to build a package that will suit your venue and still mean that you're playing the best quality music throughout your timetable. It might be that the music requirement for some of your classes, such as mind/body or smaller group sessions, can be satisfied by using licence free music from our new Studiomix and Promix ranges, meaning your budget can still meet the licence fees needed to play original artist Pure Energy music in the rest of your sessions.

If you would like to arrange a consultation with one of the Pure Energy team regarding how we can help you with your music and licensing costs, please email us info@pureenergymusic.com For more information about the changes and new pricing structures, please visit www.ppluk.com and search 'fitness tariff' and for more on how Pure Energy are approaching the changes to our memberships visit www.pureenergymusic.com/ppl Important tips: If your licence is renewed prior to May 1 you will be covered under that licence until the renewal in 2014.

If you are working with groups with health issues, PPL are offering exemptions for classes in venues such as hospitals and care homes.

For more details about the exemptions, contact PPL directly.

Read the info on the PPL website, it is both informative and concise and has an excel spreadsheet to download with the correct formula for you to work out your venue’s yearly costs.

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UK FITNESS SCENE

Primal Move is based on the movement patterns we learn and master in childhood.

Founder thinks class could be the perfect fit

By Christina Eccles A NEW exercise class has officially launched in the UK, with its founder believing it could be a great fit for gyms nationwide.

The principles of Primal Move are based on the movement patterns we learn and master in childhood – with the class aiming to make changes to participants’ posture and fitness through playful and fluid moves.

The concept has already built up a strong following here, headed up by UK director James Breese, and founder Peter Lakatos said he believes there is a lot of potential for the idea to now really take off.

He said: “Our goal is not for Primal Move to become corporate. I’m not interested in numbers, in getting as many people taking Primal Move classes as possible.

“We strive to give the best support to our instructors as possible so they can offer the highest quality training. The strength of our referrals and testimonials is evidence enough of how high-

ly Primal Move is regarded by those who regularly attend classes.”

All Primal Move exercises follow a logical sequence, adding games for fun and playfulness, but also several levels of progression to deliver a full body workout.

Peter added: “Primal Move practitioners don’t teach corrective exercises. We use them as tools as part of an exercise practice based on making movement playful.

“Largely, exercise and fitness is based on having specific goals, usually to lose weight or get fitter. The modes and methods used to achieve these are often tedious – the treadmill being the weapon of choice for many gymgoers.

“There are 10 elements to our practice, but our clients are never aware of them.

“Our goal is not to sell the end user a training method, but to make them move better and become fit in a fun and playful way, without thoughts of difficulty or the movement being a means to an end.”

The énergie Group has confirmed a deal with Playgolf Management to open a further four fitness clubs at its leisure sites in the next three years. The company first opened énergie Fitness Club, Northwick Park in 2009 within the Playgolf London leisure complex.

Now, following a successful three years, the group has confirmed a deal to extend the fitness offering across Playgolf’s four-strong estate. The first opening has been confirmed at the Playgolf Colchester location, scheduled to open in July, with Bournemouth, Surrey (Leatherhead) and Brentford to follow in the next three years.

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UK FITNESS SCENE

Gym operators improve terms following OFT investigation

By Christina Eccles THREE gym operators have agreed to change their contract terms to make them more transparent and give members better cancellation rights, following an OFT investigation.

Bannatyne Fitness, David Lloyd Leisure and Fitness First clubs, which between them have almost a million members, co-operated with the investigation and will now no longer use contract terms or practices considered unfair by the OFT. Specifically the OFT has secured: Extended rights for members to cancel their contracts early should their circumstances change in a way that makes attendance at the gym difficult or unaffordable – for example if they lose their jobs or suffer an injury.

A commitment not to describe membership as being of a fixed duration, if the contract automatically continues on a rolling basis after the initial membership period has expired.

Greater transparency about key membership features, including initial membership periods and cancellation rights, and for these to be provided upfront as part of the sales process.

Senior director of the OFT's goods and consumer group Cavendish Elithorn said: “Millions of people are members of gyms and a membership contract can easily be a financial commitment of over £500 per annum.

“We were concerned that contracts could unfairly lock people in if their circumstances changed – forcing them to continue paying even if they had lost their job.

“We welcome these changes from Bannatyne's, David Lloyd and Fitness First. As well as making contract terms clearer, the revised contracts also grant members, and prospective members, more flexibility.

“Meanwhile, we are continuing our investigation into some other companies in the sector and will provide an update in the coming weeks.”

The investigation was launched after a previous High Court ruling against a gym management company found lengthy gym membership periods can be unfair when they lock people in without adequate cancellation rights when their circumstances change.

The OFT had concerns that others operating in the sector might be using similar unfair contract terms.

David Stalker CEO of ukactive David Stalker added: “ukactive works to continually raise standards in the physical activity sector and to help remove barriers to people being active.

“Therefore we strongly believe in following the rulings drawn up by the OFT and have been happy to play an advisory role in this investigation process to date, working with both the OFT and the ukactive members involved, and we welcome any official guidance which protects consumers and motivates them to continue to lead an active lifestyle. Both David Lloyd and Fitness First are long standing members of ukactive, and I know they are fully committed to ensuring they operate to the highest of consumer standards. “ukactive’s vision, to get more people, more active, more often, is shared by all our members who we know are already implementing changes to their contract terms. For example, big fitness operators are increasingly offering a wide variety of flexible membership options to suit individual budgets and training needs, and taking initiatives such as the introduction of member pledges or short contract terms, which place consumers at the heart of their offering.

Meanwhile, we are continuing to work with OFT and the FSA regarding the issue of contracts in our sector.”

The OFT is also reminding people to carefully consider the terms of the contract before they take out a gym membership, be willing to shop around and find out what their options are if they want to cancel their membership. It recently issued a consumer alert advising people of their rights.

Active IQ launch pool lifeguarding award ACTIVE IQ has launched a new Level Two Award in Pool Lifeguarding, designed to provide a foundation for preparing and supervising a swimming pool environment.

The qualification will provide the knowledge, understanding and skills that a learner needs to safely operate in a pool environment, as well as preparing them to deal with a range of pool emergencies.

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Company is the latest to sign up to Vanguard THE Great Outdoor Gym Company has joined the ukactive Vanguard group.

As part of Vanguard, TGO will work with ukactive and its members and partners in order to build on the UK’s growing interest in outdoor fitness. ukactive CEO David Stalker said: “I’m delighted that The Great Outdoor Gym Company has come on board and joined the ukactive Vanguard.

By setting up in local communities and offering a free, sociable space that allows people to meet up and exercise, TGO are already doing their bit to get more people more active more often.

“Outdoor fitness providers are a growing section of ukactive’s membership.

“By joining Vanguard TGO will broaden the current pool of knowledge within our membership, whilst we will support them in creating links within the sector, as well as building bridges with commercial organisations and further developing their community partnerships.”

Miss Galaxy Universe quest for centre team

By Christina Eccles A LEISURE centre fitness manager has formed a team of ladies to enter Miss Galaxy Universe – an all-female show which focuses on physical fitness as well as beauty and glamour.

Steve Collins who works at Crowborough Leisure Centre has created the team – comprising both staff and members – and he and his trainers are helping them prepare for the event.

Steve said: “Miss Galaxy Universe celebrates fitness, strength and elegance among women of all ages.

“The appeal of Miss Galaxy Universe is that it requires women to show the best side of themselves but it doesn’t draw direct comparisons between contestants.

“This means that you don’t need to be a model’s height, have the right shade of hair or be particularly glamorous to succeed.

“Women are judged on how they have maximised their own body and the confidence they display; this is much more realistic and something all women can aspire to achieving.”

Based around performance and functionality – as opposed to just beauty and glamour – the show attracts women from all across Europe, with the final being held on

The Miss Galaxy Universe team from Crowborough Leisure Centre.

June 1 at The Hawth Theatre in Crawley.

Steve added: “The psychological benefits of improving your physique, strengthening your body and becoming fit for life are enormous whether you choose to compete in a show like this or not.

“I have found that for many of the women we train here, the boost in

their self-confidence is one of the most marked differences they gain from training for the purpose of showing their best-ever body.

“Miss Galaxy Universe is literally their time to shine and I’m looking forward to seeing our group enjoy their moment in the limelight as they celebrate their own individual achievements.”

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Staff at Klick Fitness get into the Red Nose Day spirit, while staff at Fit4Less in Dundee raised money by coming to work in their pyjamas.

Gyms do their bit for Comic Relief A HARLEM Shake dance routine, club based fitness challenges and a wear your pyjamas to work day were just some of the innovative ways gyms raised money for Comic Relief.

Several clubs contacted Workout to tell us what they had done to mark Red Nose Day, with many involving both staff and members in some weird and wonderful fundraising ideas.

Fit4Less in Dundee raised over £250 with their efforts, which included staff

being sponsored to wear their PJs in the gym, a sponsored leg wax and a members’ planking contest.

The club also gave out a prize to the member who attended wearing the most red clothing and donated all joining fees generated from new members signing up on the day to the Comic Relief cause.

Meanwhile at independent club Crow Wood Leisure in Burnley, members took part in a sponsored run or walkathon taking place on decorated

treadmills and over in Wellingborough, Diana’s Health and Fitness challenged staff by asking them to sit in a jacuzzi filled with ice for as long as possible.

Several Klick Fitness clubs also took part in the fun, with many of them hosting an action-packed day of fitness challenges.

Manager at Klick Fitness Bromborough Rachel McPherson said: “We would like to thank all our Klick Fitness members for helping us

raise money for Comic Relief – a day that showed we all care about the communities that we live in and we know how to have really good fun with fitness too.”

Elsewhere, The Gym, Edinburgh organised a fancy dress ‘Harlem Shake’ dance routine which was filmed and shared via YouTube, while the Workout office also played its part with a charity dress down day, where some staff members sported official Red Nose Day T shirts.

Top Quest rating for Aberdeen Sports Village ABERDEEN Sports Village has received a top rating from quality benchmarking scheme Quest.

ASV was highlighted as first overall in Scotland due to its wide range of state-of-the-art facilities and sporting amenities and ranked 17th in the UK, surpassing 582 other sports facilities from across the country.

It also received an excellent rating – the only facility in Quest’s history to achieve this standard of rating in its first assessment.

ASV chief executive David Beattie said: “To be acknowledged so highly by such a significant industry body is a great honour to the whole team and really demonstrates the standard of facility we strive to deliver.”

ASV also came first in the UK out of 560 facilities in cleaning and house-

keeping. The process took two years and involved a mystery visit and a two-day assessment in the first year, and a second mystery visit and one day assessment in the second year.

David added: “Everyone at ASV works tirelessly to provide a world class facility for the people of the North East and beyond. We ensure the facilities, equipment and surroundings are of a high standard and that there are opportunities for every group of the community – from a child playing football for the first time, to professional sportspersons training for the Olympics. Quest is much more than a tick box exercise; it is an on-going programme to improve our facility for both staff and customers, and a great way to demonstrate our achievements.”

Chief executive of Aberdeen Sports Village David Beattie.

UK FITNESS SCENE

Mum launches Wedding Dress Bootcamp for brides-to-be

By Christina Eccles A MUM of three is helping brides-tobe shape up in time for their big day with the launch of her online Wedding Dress Bootcamp.

Jaelithe Leigh-Brown had her third child in January, just days before she re-launched her fitness and life coaching business, Mrs Mojo to include the camp.

Participants take part in a six-week course, which offers three varied online video workouts – yoga-cise, ballroom aerobics and bikini fit circuit – as well as weekly group focus calls covering fitness, diet and life coaching techniques.

There are also online group forums, weekly Q and A teleseminars and homework modules.

Jaelithe said: “2012 was really busy for me – teaching yoga classes to children aged two and up, ballroom aerobics and yoga classes to adults and delivering one-to-one life coaching sessions.

“At the same time I was constantly asked by brides-to-be how to lose weight for their big day and keep the weight off, which is why I decided to re-launch my business and offer an online Wedding Dress Bootcamp in January 2013.

“I did all of my work for the business once my two boys were tucked up in bed, so I haven't had much sleep.

Jaelithe Leigh-Brown “Baby number three – our little girl Eden arrived earlier than expected – just as I was launching and piloting my first ever live Wedding Dress Bootcamp.

“Eden is doing really well and the feedback from brides-to-be has been that they need something that combines fitness, diet and life coaching which can also be done online, in the comfort of their own home and without breaking the bank.”

The next live Bootcamp will take place in May.

A Dublin gym has reopened following extensive renovations which have seen the facility more than double in size. The 850mÇ gym at University College Dublin Sport and Fitness Centre will support over 2,500 members from the student population and local community as well as athletes and sports students, who will have access to over 100 pieces of Cybex cardiovascular and strength training equipment. Cybex sales manager for Ireland Ciaran Magee said: “The new €50m UCD Sport and Fitness Centre is undoubtedly one of the country’s top sports facilities and every component of the site reflects this. The gym has been designed and built for the wide demographic it supports and just from the feedback so far, we are delighted with the final outcome.”

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SkillsActive enters arena SKILLSACTIVE and REPs are to host an approved provider arena at B-Fit, which forms part of the BodyPower Expo.

SkillsActive, together with the Register of Exercise Professionals, maintain and work to improve the industry standard to practice for employers, training providers and REPs members alike – making BodyPower, the UK’s largest fitness and nutrition expo, the ideal place to showcase their offering.

B-FIT is an interactive zone within BodyPower, showcasing the best the industry has to offer.

Catering for fitness enthusiasts and professionals, B-FIT has a quality line up of classes, workshops and seminars from leading fitness industry professionals and recognised publications. SkillsActive has also endorsed a conference at BodyPower to give it four REPs CPD points – available to all members.

BodyPower takes place from May 1719 at the NEC in Birmingham.

For more information visit www.bfitexpo.co.uk

Top sector performer LEISURE Connection has been ranked 13th in the 2012 CRC Performance League Table – making it the highest placed company from the leisure and fitness sector.

The table compared the energy efficiency performance of over 2,000 participants of the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme throughout last year to provide a clear index of the best performing companies across the UK. Head of energy Steve Bambury said: “At Leisure Connection, we take our sustainability responsibilities extremely seriously; we understand that it is our duty to do everything we can to minimise our carbon footprint and maximise our energy efficiency.

With that in mind, it’s fantastic to place so highly in the table and to see how we compare to other participants in the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme.”

UK FITNESS SCENE

Video: a great way to promote your business

By Matthew Januszek Escape Fitness FIRST we had Gangnam Style, now the Harlem Shake. What next? The combination of social media and video to reach millions, and billions, of people isn’t something that we can ignore.

In the case of the Harlem Shake, it’s been viewed, in various guises, over a billion times. More than 100 versions of the video have recorded at least one million views. What this says to me is, despite the content, the speed by which the internet spreads is truly incredible. Now, I’m not saying for one moment that recording a video in your club could hit these heights but it’s more about the principle behind it.

The use of video for business has grown tremendously over the last few years and, as a result, producing video is now far more affordable than when compared to a few years back.

Creating a video is a great way to quickly, and effectively, promote your brand, making it easy to understand and avoiding any danger of misinterpretation that could happen through people skim-reading a webpage.

The most important benefit though is arguably this; it allows you to differentiate yourself from your competition. By videoing your business you’ll be creating an intimate connection with potential customers, putting across a corporate message that is quick and to the point but, most importantly, a message that you’ll have complete control over.

Today’s technology savvy world demands interaction and visual stimulation and video can be a great way for you to showcase your talents.

Bringing a product or service to life allows you to better explain exactly what it’s all about. If you’ve got an exciting development in your club then why not show people? Why not

display an online demo using new equipment from your club? Introduce your PTs to your audience by way of a short video, show them teaching a class to highlight how serious your club is about education and training, for example.

Better still, how about capturing testimonials from class members?

Building credibility about your facility and classes, directly from positives comments from existing members, is some of the strongest advertising you can get. The endorsement of your brand from similar users will act as a strong indicator of the merits of your club – touching on the psychological phenomenon of “social proof”, where people will follow, and be influenced by, the thoughts and actions of the majority. If you capture two or three of your members extolling the virtues of your club then you have an extremely powerful marketing tool.

By posting a video online you’ll also benefit from increased brand exposure, getting your message out to people that previously may not have even been aware of you. Increasing traffic to your website is another plus and, you never know, if you produce something awesome your video could quickly go viral and we’ll all be sat here saluting the next Harlem Shake!

At Escape Fitness we’ve long believed in the power of multimedia, producing videos to best describe what it is we do. At the end of last summer, for example, we took a camera behind the scenes at the photo shoot for our upcoming brochure.

What were tried to do is show the viewers, our potential customers, why we do what we do, our thinking behind it and the work that goes into producing a brochure that we are immensely proud of. The end result?

A video has been viewed over 7,500 times, and counting, reaching a vast audience and allowing us to get our message out to many people who may have previously passed us by. In the last month alone the video has had close to 1,000 hits.

As the saying goes, a picture paints a thousand words and so by bringing your product, your business, to life you’ll be instantly making yourself interactive, engaging and exciting.

Think about how much information you could capture in just a one or two minute recording, then compare how much printed material you’d need to put across that same message, video can prove to be a very cost effective marketing tool.

It doesn’t require big budgets either.

Get creative and pick up a Smartphone and do it yourself. Take a wander around your club, show off your best bits! Sports are a popular media on YouTube, and tend to average the highest number of views, so we’re in the right ball park for giving a video the best possible chance of racking up a load of hits.

Let me know how you get on by dropping me a line at marketing@escapefitness.com and make sure you check out our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/escapefitness.

Our latest video – filmed at David Lloyd Oxford – is now online, go and have a view!

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Operators urged to be aware of music licence changes

By Christina Eccles UKACTIVE has urged independent operators to stay ahead of new music licence reforms, due to come into force on May 1.

From that date, changes are coming into play as part of PPL’s reformed Exercise to Music Tariff, which will see the responsibility for holding a valid PPL licence for music played in group exercise classes lie with the operators of fitness centres rather than the instructors themselves.

CEO David Stalker said: “These reforms represent significant changes to the way PPL tariff fees are collected which will impact on fitness operators’ businesses.

“We are urging operators not to get caught out by the introduction of the

reforms; you can act now to prepare information on your start date and number of classes to ensure that everything is in place by the time you need to complete your return.

“As a result of ukactive’s negotiations with PPL, existing licences – whether held by your instructors or as an operator – can be taken into account if they expire after the May 1 2013 start date. We will be playing an active role in the collection of licence fees – the purpose of which is to be able to offer a discount to ukactive members of 10 per cent off the overall price of their annual licence. “ukactive will continue to support the sector through this transition, to ensure that operators can meet this new tariff without having to compromise on the delivery of their services.”

Tara Hammett with her certificate for being shortlisted in the personal trainer category at the 2012 National Fitness Awards.

Tara leads International Women’s Day class

A new tourism campaign is urging the public to try more outdoor activities while exploring England’s countryside. Active Outdoors, organised by tourism body VisitEngland, promotes outdoor experiences ranging from walking in national parks, to cycling and water sports. Regions taking part include The Lake District, Cumbria, which is highlighting its outdoor offering including canoeing on Ullswater (pictured).

TOP personal trainer Tara Hammett led a special fitness class in Swansea city centre to celebrate International Women’s Day. Tara, who is health club manager at The Dragon Hotel, warmed up the crowd with a demonstration of her 12 minute High Intensity Interval Training workout and was joined by members of the Welsh netball team, as well as some of her own clients.

People were also given the chance to win a place on her Fitness and Fatloss

21-day challenge, a copy of her Healthy Handbook and a one-month membership at The Dragon Hotel Health Club.

Tara, who was shortlisted for gym based personal trainer of the year at the 2012 National Fitness Awards, said: “It was great to be a part of this event and celebrate International Women’s Day. It was a fun fitness day and was fantastic to educate and help inspire others to lead healthier lifestyles.”

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UK FITNESS SCENE

A clean environment to work out improves satisfaction, finds survey

By Christina Eccles A NEW white paper has been released which reveals how gyms can up member satisfaction levels by creating a cleaner environment for them to work out in.

The guide – Improve member satisfaction by 10 per cent through creating a cleaner fitness environment – has been created by support services provider Emprise and offers key insights into the importance of having a clean club.

It contains three simple steps to help operators improve member satisfaction scores; step one is to recognise that members care about cleanliness, step two involves upholding operators’ brand image to retain members and step three reveals how to use a club’s cleanliness as a means of adding value.

It also includes a case study showing how one gym chain managed to increase member satisfaction levels by changing its cleaning strategy.

Matt Kuwertz Sales and marketing director at Emprise Matt Kuwertz said: “We produced this white paper because we have seen first hand the positive impact an effective cleaning strategy can have on member satisfaction in the fitness industry and wanted to share our thoughts on best practice.

The case study gives a great insight

into how member satisfaction increased as a direct result of cleaning.”

The paper also found that cleanliness in fitness facilities was one of the most common sources of complaints.

In one study, 88 per cent of people said they wouldn’t use a gym or athletic facility if it had cleanliness issues and in another, 44 per cent of people would be encouraged to use leisure centres if they had improved facilities.

And Matt added that if a focus on adding value via cleaning could mean retaining even one per cent of those lost, it could have a significant effect on revenue generation.

He added: “Clearly, cleanliness is a big deal for consumers. With the economy forcing many organisations to reduce costs and member retention being a major challenge for the fitness industry, the delivery of strategic cleaning services can be a direct means of adding value, which creates brand loyalty and contributes to the bottom line.”

Minister for sport and tourism Hugh Robertson MP with some of the children who took part in the centre’s opening day activities.

Minister opens Freedom’s new site FREEDOM Leisure’s newest site in Kent has been officially opened by minister for sport and tourism Hugh Robertson.

Three Hills Sports Ground in Folkestone is the operator’s 34th site and third in Kent and will be a centre of excellence for cricket, hockey and netball. The £7.8m project has been funded by a donation from the Roger

De Haan Charitable Trust and the land is provided by Shepway District Council on a 125 year lease.

The facility is owned and run by The Cheriton Road Sports Ground Trust, a registered charity comprising volunteers from Folkestone Cricket Club and Optimist Hockey Club.

Managing director of Freedom Leisure Jeff Hart said: “We are delight-

ed to be working with The Cheriton Road Sports Ground Trust to operate the Three Hills Sports Park.

“It offers first class sporting facilities for the local community, nearby schools and sports clubs as well as national and international athletes. It is an exciting development and we are looking forward to fulfilling its many objectives.”

Budget chain voted 15th best to work for BUDGET chain The Gym Group has been voted the 15th best small company to work for in the UK. The operator achieved the ranking in The Sunday Times 100 Best Small Companies to Work For list, the UK’s most extensive research into employee engagement.

The Gym Group also achieved the top Three Star Accreditation stan-

dard, declaring the company an ‘extraordinary’ employer.

Chief executive John Treharne said: “We are particularly pleased and proud with our inclusion and position in this highly regarded survey.

We work tirelessly to ensure that The Gym Group is a satisfying and rewarding place to work. It is part of our ethos to have our employees

engaged, enjoying their work and striving for the best results for our customers. In turn our employees and experienced management team have grown the business to its current 32 high quality sites and market leadership in the low cost health and fitness market. We are delighted that the success of our employees has been recognised in this way.”

COMBAT

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Giving fitness instructors and personal trainers all the tools they need THE Hatton Academy gives fitness instructors and personal trainers all the tools they need to take their skills and teaching methods to the next level.

Developed by four-time world boxing champion Ricky Hatton, the academy's courses are fully accredited by the British Boxing Board of Control, the Register of Exercise Professionals and the Amateur Boxing Association of England.

There are currently three courses available and they include everything from basic boxing fitness up to advanced training methods.

The Fundamentals course has been designed to suit people of all levels of experience and ability. It covers the basic principles of boxing training, including correct punching technique, correct pad holding and simple punching combinations.

The Hatton Academy Advance course takes things up a notch. As the name suggests, it includes teaching participants advanced boxing methods such as ducking, slipping and weaving.

It also aims to give those taking part the skills they need to host their own advanced cardio sessions as well as expert advice on safety and injury

Mayor of Solihull Kenneth Hawkins with staff from Rigs Fitness. prevention.

Finally, the Elite trainer course has been designed for those who want to learn the skills and secrets of professional boxing coaches.

It builds on the teachings of the previous courses, but includes advanced movement combinations, advance defensive techniques and shows participants ways in which they can spot and rectify incorrect techniques.

Ricky Hatton said: "Boxing training can benefit everyone. It isn't about learning to fight, it's about improving fitness, strength and stamina.

"The course will give you all the tools you need to structure and teach safe and effective boxing techniques.

We show the course participants how to deliver all major punching techniques and defensive moves.

"No other course can offer such in depth skills and training methods in boxing."

Mayor impressed by independent gym AN independent gym, which specialises in functional fitness and boxing classes, has been visited by the local mayor, who revealed how impressed he was with the business.

Mayor of Solihull, Kenneth Hawkins visited Rigs Fitness to take a look around the facilities and chat to staff including owner Sam Smith.

The Mayor said: “It's really great to see a new business doing so well in the area. I like how the gym is back to basics, with old school functional training, boxing, and real fitness sessions.”

While he was there, the club also presented the Mayor with an hon-

orary membership, as well as a prize to give away at his upcoming charity ball of a one to one personal training session with ISKA World Kickboxing champion Paul Gilmore, who coaches a weekly Fighting Fit class at Rigs.

He added: “I’m truly thankful for Sam and Paul’s generosity. It’s not often you get to offer such a great prize for such a great cause, but just like Rigs, this is something unique that we hope will be the cause for much interest at the ball.”

The club opened last August and has already become the regular training facility for some of the area’s best sports teams and athletes.

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Companies team up to offer ‘a little extra help’ SUPPLIERS including Power Plate have teamed up with Everyone Active to create content for the operator’s training platform, Everyone Active Online.

Subscribers to EA Online pay £5.99 per month to access all of the workouts, video classes or training plans or they can be purchased on an individual basis, with workouts from £1.99 per programme.

The companies, which also include Wattbike and GRAVITY, have provided a range of information – from simple workout cards to exercise videos – to help visitors get the most from their training.

Power Plate master trainer Steve Powell said: “It is great that Everyone Active have recognised the value in offering greater ‘workout’ solutions direct to the user and this collaboration allows us the opportunity to engage directly with the customer to ensure a better and more effective experience of Power Plate and the extensive programming options available on the Everyone Active digital platform.”

Commercial director at Everyone Active Neil King said: “We pride ourselves on offering exciting new equipment, but sometimes customers need a little extra help to get the full benefit.

‘We work with suppliers to offer taster sessions and launch new equipment in club, but by giving them somewhere to continue progressing after that initial push we can help users get even more out of each session. Huge thanks to all the suppliers who are supporting the project with such effective programming.”

VIBRATION TRAINING

DW Clubs upgrades to Power Plate pro 7 DW Fitness Clubs has upgraded its Power Plate machines to pro7 as part of the company’s extensive refurbishment plans.

The Power Plate pro7 is the latest model in the Power Plate line and is the first commercially available Power Plate to offer integrated video coaching and features the very latest in interactive touch screen and embedded proMOTION technology for enhanced upper body work.

With over 1,000 exercise videos and 250 progressive full-body workouts offering a personalised workout at the touch of a button, the Power Plate pro7 allows members to train independently and stay motivated.

DW Fitness Clubs’ 68 sites across the UK operate with an average of two Power Plates in each club. pro7 machines will feature in their brand new location in Lincoln, which opened at the end of March, and there are plans to roll out the upgrade throughout many of their other clubs over the next few months.

Senior vice president of Performance Health Systems, the manufacturer and distributor of Power Plate, Matthew Pengelly said: “We are thrilled that DW

Fitness Clubs has purchased the Power Plate pro7. We have a long-standing relationship with them as they were the first chain to purchase Power Plate equipment. We value their loyalty to the Power Plate brand and guarantee that DW Fitness and their members will love the pro7.”

A spokesman for DW Fitness Clubs added: “DW Fitness Clubs

has chosen to work with Power Plate and the pro7 due to the full range of exercise videos it could offer to its members, whilst also being user friendly.

“Having Power Plate’s pro7 adds a new dimension to DW fitness clubs gym floor experience.”

For more information visit www.powerplate.com

VIBRATION TRAINING

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Vibration training kit is boosting gym sessions POWER Plate personal training sessions are enhancing the offering at an independent gym in Worksop.

365 Functional Fitness has been successfully using the kit with clients after owner Howard Hill took the decision to invest in Power Plate pro6 machines for his club.

Howard explained: “When designing the studio layout of 365 Functional Fitness, we had to decide which equipment served great purpose and results to our clients and very importantly which equipment would be most beneficial when marketing and promoting the business.

“We decided to go with the Power Plate pro6, this not only gave us a great vibration training platform, but a great functional aspect too by having the dual pulleys attached to the plate.

“The studio is designed to stimulate the mind as soon as you walk in there by adding vibrant colour and cutting edge design and creativity. The Pro6 definitely fitted in well with the look we were hoping to achieve and always attracts new and existing clients to the machine.”

The kit has been used for everything from helping clients suffering from injuries, to improving the training

regimes of some of the club’s more high profile members who are looking to push their workouts to the next level.

Howard added: “The plate is used regularly with our personal training clients and has become a very effective tool for clients that are suffering with injuries and illness.

We also get great use of the plate to intensify workouts and develop our more sports performance athletes, such as Lauren Ashwell, who is an up and coming fitness model.

“Lauren uses the Power Plate to combine her workouts and really push her high intensity training sessions.

“We also offer Power Plate Personal Training, these are very popular as clients can come and workout and then leave after 25 minutes having had a great body conditioning workout.

“We do stress to our clients that vibration training is not a magic answer to your health and fitness goal, but by adding it to our clients’ training sessions it gives the trainer better tools, more creative, fun and result driven training sessions that will hopefully keep clients coming back for more.”

‘Look good, feel good, do good’ AN Edinburgh Power Plate studio is giving something back by partnering with an initiative that helps the business connect with worthy causes.

Studio EH1 has joined up with organisation B1G1, which distributes funds generated by its business partners – in this case as the gym – to their chosen charities all over the world.

Owner Helen Maclennan explained: “Very much, our attitude is, if more small businesses gave a little, it would make such a huge difference.

“Established for five years, we are now in our third and final studio in the West End of Edinburgh, after amalgamating two smaller studios into one bigger one. My partner and I come from small communities – me from Stornoway in the Western Isles of Scotland, and Ian from a small town called Ellon in Aberdeenshire in the North East of Scotland.

“Consequently we were very deter-

mined to bring the community spirit into our business and change people’s attitudes towards health and fitness to create an energising community. Studio EH1 is a place where people get fit and get healthy, but they also make friends, they have fun and they feel part of it.”

Now, each month the Studio EH1 team, pictured above, will pick projects that they feel have a connection with the ethos of their business – primarily health and education – to donate to.

Helen added: “Our clients give us great feedback when I update them on the month’s charity project. They feel good about the fact that they’re a member of a club that has strong social values. We have a great team who are on the same page as us, they share our values – and this shines through to our clients. We call it the ‘look good, feel good, do good’ factor.”

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INDOOR CYCLING A new state-of-the-art studio has opened in London which aims to deliver a richer and more flexible indoor cycling experience. Christina Eccles found out more.

There are 50 bikes available in the studio in every ride.

Buzzing studio goes from beers to bikes SITUATED in a converted pub, just a few minutes’ walk from Bank tube station, Cyclebeat is creating a buzz among busy city workers looking for somewhere exciting and stimulating to train.

The studio is the brainchild of two London lawyers, Justin Crewe and Greg Allon, who both loved indoor cycling but were frustrated by the varying standards they were finding across different classes.

The solution was to create a place of their own and the pair searched for over two years to find the perfect location before opening Cyclebeat in February in the heart of the city.

Greg explained: “Myself and Justin are both avid cyclists and indoor cycling fans but like most people, we found it frustrating because the quality of classes can really vary.

“We decided to look at following our passion for indoor cycling and do that one thing but do it really well.”

To make Cyclebeat stand out from the crowd, Greg and Justin identified the main areas they needed to focus on; the quality of their instructors, installing the latest technology and providing a flexible membership system.

Justin added: “We identified three key factors to ensure that our studio is a cut above the rest.

“Firstly, and most importantly, we’ve worked very hard to secure some of the most talented instructors in the

A typical class at Cyclebeat in London. country. They are inspirational and their music is brilliant.

“Secondly, we have introduced technology which makes for a much richer experience, enabling our riders to book a specific bike, compete if they choose to in class and track their progress.

“And finally, we have introduced a very flexible membership system, where new riders can try it out for 30 days for just £30, then decide whether to pay as they go, or buy a flexible membership. Either way, there is no long term commitment.”

There are 50 bikes available in every ride, with participants able to book a class online and even a specific bike ahead of their session.

Riders can also choose to use Beatboard technology, meaning their performance will be streamed live onto a board at the front of a class.

This allows participants to compete with other riders – and also themselves – encouraging motivation and retention as riders are keen to return to improve their times.

And although the studio has only been open a matter of weeks, its location in a busy area, marketing such as flyers and posters in the nearby tube stations and a presence on social media sites have all helped to ensure it got off to a flying start.

Greg added: “The special offer of 30 days for £30 gives members the opportunity to try it out and get a really good experience. Over 800 people have signed up for that.

“Right from the start classes have been really busy and the feedback has been fantastic. We are really delighted. It’s very early days but we have had great numbers and the riders have been very enthusiastic.”

How Barry turned his dream into a reality BPHYSICAL Personal Training is the dream which became a reality for Barry Thraves and his wife Di. After being made redundant, Barry decided to take a chance, albeit an educated and well thought-out business plan, to put his dream of owning a personal training studio in his home town of Ashbourne, Derbyshire into action.

BPhysical opened its doors in June 2011 with the latest Matrix equipment and has rapidly become one of

the most successful studios in the East Midlands.

From the outset Barry has ensured that he will gradually introduce new and innovative products to his studio to encourage retention and to demonstrate to his loyal following

that he is willing to invest. He introduced Myzone last June which has massively increased retention, this was then followed by the installation of the RealRyder indoor cycles.

He said: “I chose the RealRyder above any other indoor cycle due to its capacity to oscillate and give the feeling of a road ride indoors. “ I am always looking and researching new products and for BPhysical, this indoor cycle was the perfect fit for the business model.”

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INDOOR CYCLING

David Lloyd Leisure selects Wattbike

Debut for group cycling bike LIFE Fitness has introduced a new premium performance group cycling bike.

With a cutting-edge design, optional cycling computer and magnetic brake and lever, the Lifecycle GX is the most accommodating choice for trainers and exercisers.

The Lifecycle GX’s rear flywheel design sets it apart from competitors and also provides protection from sweat. The bike’s zinc oxide coated frame and plastic shrouds also shield sensitive product components from moisture.

An optional computer provides sophisticated feedback to bike users, including speed, distance, resistance level, cadence, calories, time, heart rate and percentage of max heart rate – great for instructors looking to implement new and innovative classes. It mounts between the handlebars in an optimal viewing position.

An ergonomic seat provides a comfortable solution for expert and novice riders alike, and its cut out feature provides extra relief and more airflow.

Ergonomic handlebars offer comfortable wrist angles, while an aero-bar allows riders to stretch out in a comfortable sprint position.

For more information visit www.lifefitness.com

INDOOR cycle trainer Wattbike has completed its first round of installations into David Lloyd Leisure locations across the UK. Members at new high street David Lloyd Studios in Putney and Winchester are the first to experience the very best in indoor cycle training while the group’s latest club in Worcester now offers a suite of four Wattbikes.

From its roots as an elite training and testing tool used by World and Olympic champions, Wattbike is fast becoming established as the indoor cycle trainer of choice for the health and fitness industry.

Its flexibility across a range of training scenarios is popular with personal trainers, from fitness testing and one to one coaching, through to functional training

and specialist tuition for cyclists and triathletes.

The combination of scientifically accurate fitness data, the feel of riding a real bike and Wattbike’s unique pedal technique analysis now brings a new level of structured training to David Lloyd Leisure members.

The recent launch of a new 2013 model incorporates an enhanced Wattbike performance computer and ergonomic triathlon style bars, delivering an unparalleled indoor cycling experience.

Sales manager Richard Baker said: “We’re delighted to be working with David Lloyd Leisure across the UK. In particular, we’re very pleased to be part of their new Studio rollout from the inception of this new concept.

Wattbike’s presence in one of the largest brands within the health

and fitness sector is testament to the quality of product and support delivered by our team.”

Further installs will take place at David Lloyd Leisure sites across 2013, initially at the company’s Hampton and Beckenham sites.

For more information visit www.wattbike.com

Why choose Wipepod® for your gym?

CONCERNED about cleanliness? If you’re serious about safeguarding hygiene, removing bacteria and preventing infection, The Hygiene Company’s Wipepod is the perfect addition to your workplace.

Wipepod’s creator, Jonathan, was always mindful of the importance of hand and surface hygiene. But cleanliness always proved problematic in his regular visits to the gym, as a disinfectant spray bottle was often nowhere to be found. Well aware that gym equipment is a repository for perspiration

and bacteria, Jonathan always felt it good practice to wipe down after use.

But growing ever more frustrated with having to search high and low for cleaning tools, he wondered if there could be a solution to this hygiene problem. The answer? A wall mounted dispenser, always located in the same place, and filled with easily accessible hygiene wipes. The Wipepod!

Now used in a variety of industries, and recognised as ‘essential’ by the NHS, the Wipepod ensures the upholding of hand and surface hygiene.

INDOOR CYCLING

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Five of the Best ...

By Allan Collins

Gloucester leisure centre complete GL1, a leisure centre located in the heart of Gloucester, has completed the development of its Xpress suite.

Designed to offer specific target groups, such as children, older members and women a safe and effective workout, the Xpress suite includes a timed circuit of Keiser Air resistance and CV equipment, including Keiser M3 Bikes, M5 Ellipticals and Total Body Trainers for warm up and cool down.

Business development director Jacquie Douglas said: “The development of a second gym area was designed to release pressure on the

main gym at peak times. In addition, it offers progression for women and older clients from toning tables to air based resistance workouts. The new suite has also allowed us to open our facilities to local schools.

“Using the Xpress Circuit in this dedicated area means that the instructor can teach in a very controlled environment, which is not always possible in the main gym area.

We now have four schools using our facilities for their PE lessons during term time.”

For more information call 0845 612 1102 or visit www.keiseruk.com

I AM constantly being asked what are my favourite exercises. If I only had “favourites” that I stuck to, over a period of time I would acclimatise and they would become less beneficial. So, instead, what I’ve prepared is list of five of my best “unusual favourites”; great for those who follow a traditional style of training, and each brilliant in their own special way: 1. Barbell Windmill Many are familiar with the Kettlebell version of this exercise, but the barbell variant is a far superior exercise (and actually was the version that vintage strongmen used in the 1900s).

The bar is held in one hand above the head, and with the rear leg straight, a sideways bending motion is performed. Great for lateral hip and core strength, and shoulder stability, and the barbell means that it will improve grip strength and wrist stability.

2. Barbell Turkish Get Up (TGU) Again more commonly performed with a Kettlebell, the barbell version is a much safer and also more challenging drill. It is safer because there is less risk of shoulder over-rotation, and is more challenging on the grip, wrist stability and shoulder proprioception. Start on your back with the bar held in one hand, and move up into a seated position, then split kneeling, then up to a standing position. Reverse the sequence back to a supine position on the floor to complete your rep. Brilliant for mobility, core strength, shoulder and thoracic function, proprioception.... the list goes on – if you are a beginner or

advanced gymgoer, this is a must.

3. Sandbag Lift to Shoulder Stand over the sandbag and grip on the sides (without use of the handles).

Then keeping your chest up, spine neutral, drive the hips forward to lift the bag. Use the arms to guide onto one shoulder and brace the core to absorb the impact. From here you can perform squats or weighted walks, or you can lower back between the feet and lift to other side. Good for grip strength, lateral core and improving unconventional lifting ability.

4. Overhead Walks with Barbell and Chains This is great if you have little space to move. Hold a barbell, with chains on either end, above your head with arms locked, then walk in a figure of eight pattern. Whether the chains swing or drag on the ground, it doesn’t really matter; this drill is great for shoulder stability and core stability.

5. Uneven Barbell Deadlift Pretty simple but highly effective.

Using a submaximal weight, place more plates on one side than the other to create an uneven load. Then perform a deadlift or Romanian deadlift as normal, trying to keep the bar perfectly level, and with no alternation of the normal body position. A huge challenge on the core and hip muscles, and can be combined with other variants, such as a walking deadlift, where you take three steps forwards/backwards between each deadlift rep.

Happy unusual training!

Allan Collins is director of education at Jordan Fitness and author of The Complete Guide to Functional Training.

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UK FITNESS SCENE

Pontefract Squash and Leisure Club’s Pete Todd.

Gyms can tap into funds and save cash with special status

By Christina Eccles GYMS which offer community sports facilities should consider applying for specialist status to help them save money and tap into potential funding opportunities, according to an independent gym manager.

Pete Todd runs Pontefract Squash and Leisure Club, which successfully gained Community Amateur Sports Club status in 2003, thanks to its world renowned squash facilities and efforts to engage with the local community.

Businesses can apply for CASC status by submitting a form to HMRC. Those which are successful can then benefit from incentives such as an 80 per cent reduction in business rates and the ability to raise funds from individuals through Gift Aid – all designed to help the growth of grassroots sport.

To make the grade, clubs have to meet a set of criteria, including offering a sport recognised by the Sports Council, be wholly open and inclusive to all sections of the community, have a core purpose in the promotion of amateur sports provision and be nonprofit making – re-investing any profits back into the club.

Clubs also have to have a board and AGM, which Pete said in the case of Pontefract Squash and Leisure Club, provides members with the chance to have their say in a facility they very much feel part of.

He explained: “All our members feel a sense of ownership.

“People love to be part of something and you can feel the sense of commu-

nity in this club.

“For people looking for new opportunities, it’s definitely worth investigating further but it needs to complement your club’s vision.”

However Pete added that it’s not an option which will suit everyone and there can be challenges, such as having to please everyone on the board who may have different opinions.

And as CASC clubs are classed as not for profit, in the eyes of lenders it is hard to place a monetary value on them – potentially making it harder to secure loans.

He added: “You have to listen and get the different opinions of everyone on the board. But we all want the same things – it’s just how we get there.”

Pete also told Workout that for his club, the positives definitely outweigh the negatives, as having CASC status has helped them tap into funding from resources such as Sport England, which has recently awarded a grant of £50,000 towards revamping the exterior of the club as part of its Olympic legacy fund, Inspired Facilities.

It also makes the club appear trustworthy to members – and potential members – who see their membership money being reinvested back into improving the facilities.

He added: “It’s not a ‘golden nugget’ for everyone and depends on the ethos of your facility.

“If making a profit is everything to you, then I’m not sure it’s the right road to go down. But if making a difference and giving something back to the community is important then maybe it’s for you.”

UK FITNESS SCENE

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With an 84 per cent increase over the last five years in the number of registered exercise professionals, business is clearly booming for personal trainers. However, many overlook an essential element of protecting that business – insurance. Here, the experts from Insure4Sport explain why it’s so important for personal trainers to be covered.

Personal trainer insurance – why you need cover now AS a personal trainer you need to provide training advice and care for all clients.

The safety of clients is paramount, but the unfortunate fact of life is that accidents do happen. Although you may not be specifically at fault and you may have taken steps to mitigate the chances of accidents, the injured client may wish to pursue a claim for compensation, in which case you could be liable to pay costly legal fees and damages.

Therefore, all personal trainers need to be covered for at least Public Liability and Professional Indemnity insurance to protect yourself and your business.

In fact, this is so important you may find some organisations insist you have insurance cover before being allowed to train.

Public Liability insurance covers you for any damage or legal costs arising from third party bodily injury or third party property damage. For example, if someone under your tuition injured themselves and brings a claim for compensation against you, then you

would be covered under Public Liability. Professional Indemnity insurance covers you for breaches of professional duty as a result of negligent acts, errors or omissions – in other words, will insure you against any errors you make as a personal trainer. For example, if your coaching techniques were questioned when a client suffered an injury resulting from your advice, then you would be covered under Professional Indemnity.

With a physical occupation, the likelihood of an injury meaning that you cannot work for a period of time increases significantly. Loss of earnings insurance is an optional extra which can cover you for this eventuality. It is not just your clients that can get injured or hurt during a session, you can too. Personal Accident insurance would cover you should this happen, and can provide for rehabilitation such as physiotherapy.

Most personal trainers use sports kit or equipment daily. Equipment insurance can cover damage, loss and theft of equipment, and provision can be

on a new-for-old basis.

There are several different types of cover available, that vary dependent on monetary value of cover and how many different eventualities you are covered for.

All fitness professionals need to make sure they read the policy fineprint if they are conducting different types of sessions – some policies may only provide cover for specific classes.

One company aiming to do something different is insure4sport with their specialist fixed price policies.

Policies are incepted and maintained online and customers can build policies on the website to suit their own individual requirements.

Policies can also be updated, upgraded or renewed online – making things as easy as possible for fitness instructors and personal trainers.

SUPPLEMENTATION AND NUTRITION

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Fitness experts join to launch diet e-book

By Christina Eccles

FITNESS experts Karen Casadei and Alex Seckham have teamed up to launch a diet e-book, which offers 30 days’ worth of healthy breakfasts, lunches and dinners.

Karen, who is a qualified fitness instructor, sports massage therapist and chef, met personal trainer Alex when she attended a kettlebell class he was teaching at Lifestyle Fitness in Barnsley.

From there they struck up a friendship and started to refer clients to each other, finding that between them they were getting an increasing number of people asking for advice on nutrition and healthy eating.

This inspired them to create the ebook – The Pursuit of Healthiness Cook Book – which they have been selling for £9.99 to clients, friends and family since January.

Karen said: “I was constantly being asked by clients who just didn’t understand ‘real’ eating. I’ve battled with my weight and one of the worst things is when diets tell you not to eat the same things as your kids or make your food separately.

“Many of our clients want to eat with their families, eat out or host dinner parties so we wanted something which would cover all bases.”

The book contains tasty ideas for 30 different breakfasts, 30 lunches and 30 dinners, with recipes including breakfast courgette pancakes, berry and spinach smoothie, broccoli and mint soup, lettuce wraps, pesto turkey burger and monkfish and lemon skewers.

The focus is on providing dishes

Karen Casadei and Alex Seckham and their diet e-book. which are healthy yet relatively easy to prepare and suitable for all the family to enjoy together.

Alex added: “People don’t want to eat the same recipes – it’s boring. It’s about spicing it up.

“People have especially been enjoying the breakfasts, as everyone struggles with finding different things to eat then.”

The pair are now hoping to get the book out to a wider audience and have made it available to buy through their website. They are also planning to explore other opportunities, such as creating a printed version or an app, and are even considering a sec-

ond book which would focus on healthy treats and snacks.

Eventually they would like to create a more comprehensive package combining the book and fitness workouts, which would be available to download online.

They are also looking to expand the Pursuit of Healthiness brand further with healthy eating tasting events at a local butchers and a weekend bootcamp fitness retreat both in the pipeline for later in the year.

Karen added: “It’s doing really well.

We now want to push it to the next level and decide how to take it forward.”

Enjoy ...

A first for high protein diet meals GREAT tasting, all natural, convenient, high protein diet meals for sports and fitness.

Performance Meals are based on clinically tested research that clearly indicates high protein meals help to maintain a lean, toned body.

High protein meals are also suitable for building muscle mass and strength and are especially useful in the repair of muscle after exercise.

These are complete real food meals, containing no additives or preservatives. High in protein, with a minimum of 40g protein per serving, low

fat, low salt and ready to eat.

The unique air and watertight sealed pouch ensures the ingredients are kept fresh and keeps the allimportant nutrients locked in during cooking.

Performance Meals have a shelf life of 12 months and have no special storage requirements. No fridge needed. Simply display alongside existing sports nutrition products.

Visit www.performancemeals.com for more information.

Trade customers can order direct from www.performancemealstrade.com

THE low GI Crunch is a careful balance of macro and micronutrients to create a total low GI (Glycaemic index) meal replacement, which alongside the high fibre and high protein content will keep you fuller for longer – encouraged by the variety of micronutrients and amino acids, as well as omegas which keep the body well nourished, keeping the hunger switch at bay.

It is in a convenient rigid plastic bowl with snap shut lid and already with a spoon inside, so you can safely carry it with you on journeys; on the train or plane, in your car glove box or in your gym bag or to work.

Light and convenient: Step one: Just add milk or water Step two: Replace lid and shake Step three: Enjoy!

For more information visit www.feelfreenutrition.com

CLASSIFIED AND PRODUCT NEWS

Escape rolls out Dynamax website ESCAPE Fitness have launched a new website, dedicated to Dynamax Medicine Balls.

As the official UK distributor for Dynamax, the new website, www.dynamaxball.com, will provide all the information you could need about why Dynamax Balls have become the overwhelming choice for professional sports strength and conditioning coaches around the world and why they are the official choice for the Cross-Fit games.

They are available in nine different weight increments which mean they are the perfect medicine ball to suit any level of training. Each ball is designed to absorb high velocity impact to give a vigorous, interactive workout.

The Dynamax Ball will also target and strengthen all 10 physical skills to

provide your members with the ultimate medicine ball experience. Made from 70 per cent recycled material, the balls are moisture resistant and 14” in diameter, regardless of weight.

The new website will also have details of the training and education that is available. A well developed training programme can ensure this medicine ball gives a fun and engaging workout which includes core strength, plyometrics and cardio fitness.

For more information visit www.dynamaxball.com

Freedom Climber gets double hard-core!

FUNCTIONAL climbing wall specialist Freedom Climber has installed its latest double functional system wall into several hardcore gyms, as well as leading premium health clubs in central London.

The clubs have created exciting new functional areas featuring the Freedom Climber as an addition and variation to the traditional exercises.

Real tangible benefits are being experienced by the clubs with existing members who are looking for the latest exercises and new member marketing, which has benefited from the strong visual impact during club tours, as well as enhanced website content.

The addition of the double rotating disc system enables gyms to run climbing challenges and competitions between members. Adding a 30 second climb into a cross fit circuit

For more information contact info@freedomclimber.co.uk or view videos on www.freedomclimber.co.uk

The natural, 100% British beef protein snack PURE Beef Ltd is proud to announce the launch of its unrivalled new product to the health and leisure industry – PureBeef, the 100 per cent British dried beef protein snack bags.

Building upon the nation’s increasing awareness of the importance of inclusion of protein, iron, BCAAs and CLAs in our diets, Sara Morris, the company’s creator set about to provide a product that can supply all these important nutrients, naturally without using any sugar, MSG, gluten or artificial colours or flavours.

Pure Beef uses locally sourced, British Silverside Beef that is only

VENDING

Installing gyms across the Midlands FFITTECH has again been busy installing new gyms across the Midlands with the opening of Stapleford’s first ever boxing and fitness club.

The club opened in March and is kitted out with a full size boxing ring, an array of bags and functional training kit, Ffittech bikes and Ffittech strength equipment, treadmills and much more.

The opening day was a great success with guest appearances from professional boxers Jason Booth and Ovill McKenzie.

Competitions were held and prizes awarded and Ovill made the most of the opportunity to train for his next title fight on the new equipment. He even had time to set the record on the punching machine.

Owner Adam said: “Training has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember, my father is a boxing and gym enthusiast and taught me to box from as soon as I could walk. From the age of eight I joined Radford boys and first competed at age 10. For me running my own gym and boxing club is a life long dream. The list of people that have helped us is endless. We would like to

SITUATION VACANT adds an exciting new station to other functional exercises. Latest installations include 37 Degrees Tower Bridge, Planet Fitness in Wales in their new MMA functional fitness area and VirginActive in their state of the art Classic Clubs.

ever grass fed to make their dried beef snack, which enables them to boast a massive 56.6g of protein for every 100g eaten.

The beef is simply sliced, spiced and dried and packaged all in Britain.

Available in two flavours, Original and Peri Peri, this delicious snack has become an ideal pre and post workout snack.

For more information contact sara@ purebeef.co.uk or call 0207 717 9717.

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say a special thanks to the guys at Ffittech for supplying us with a massive range of high quality exercise equipment.”

Interested in opening your own gym too ...?

Contact Ffittech on 01157529548 for a full brochure and quotation or visit www.ffittech.co.uk

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