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October 2013
The UK’s No 1 fitness industry magazine
ukactive chief issues rallying cry to industry By Christina Eccles INDUSTRY body ukactive has issued a call to action for the fitness industry to get involved in the opportunities available to encourage more people to become more active, more often. Speaking at Leisure Industry Week, CEO David Stalker told delegates the fitness and leisure sector has physical activity at the heart of its business, meaning operators are well placed to improve the health of the nation through the work they do in their clubs. He explained that, according to figures, there are now more deaths globally from obesity than malnutrition and in two generations, physical activity has declined by over 35 per cent – worrying figures which show it is vital the fitness industry forges closer links with the health industry to improve public health and reduce the cost of inactivity. He said: “Obesity is the biggest public health problem of the 21st century and we need to make a difference as an industry. In today’s environment there is an emphasis on localism and GPs will be given more responsibility for spending. What is your relationship with your local GP? Are we going to have a fitness instructor in every GP
surgery?” David also outlined ukactive’s key aims and areas where operators can – and should be – getting involved. These include: Establishing physical activity as a core business of the NHS and strengthening links between the medical and fitness sectors. Working with young people to engage them in physical activity from an early age and involving ukactive members in campaigns which help to target the whole family. Secure the support of businesses and major commercial brands to tap into funding streams and spread the message of the importance of physical activity as wide as possible. Utilise the latest innovations in technology to engage with communities in and outside of club environments. Ensure the organisation’s core supporter base of operators are engaged with ukactive’s missions and are involved in the journey. He added: “We are placed to make a big change to the health of the nation. All I ask for is your passion and commitment to the future of the industry.” A full LIW review will appear in the next issue.
No 241 £3
Celebrations as shortlist of clubs is revealed
Footballing legend Alan Shearer is among the celebrity fans of a unique group training concept – Speedflex. Tapping into the growing trend of combining high intensity training and group exercise, Speedflex is a 45-minute circuit based session, led by an experienced personal trainer. Incorporating low impact, high intensity, cardiovascular and resistance moves, the workout has been going down well at a Newcastle studio, with plans in place for a wider roll out. For full story see page 18.
CLUBS from the Shetland Islands down to Cornwall are celebrating after making the shortlist for the 2013 National Fitness Awards. Gyms from all corners of the country are represented this year at the awards, which are organised by Script Events, in partnership with Workout and headline sponsor Servicesport, and recognise excellence and achievement throughout the fitness industry. The Workout team is currently out and about visiting clubs on the list and by the end of the process, will have covered thousands of miles to reach them all. Reports will then be compiled and passed on to our expert judging panel, who will pick the lucky winners, who will then claim their trophies at the awards’ evening on Friday December 6. This year’s event will take place at The Palace Hotel in Manchester and will be hosted by former TV Gladiator Caroline Pearce. See the full shortlist and find out how to book your place at the event by turning to our dedicated National Fitness Awards’ feature, starting on page 45.