A County Durham woman whose fitness programme at a local gym has led to her losing five stone is encouraging others to take advantage of a special offer at their local leisure centres.

Amanda Hayton – a member of Durham County Council’s Meadowfield Leisure Centre – started going to the centre’s gym after a health scare. A problem connected with her weight led to Amanda collapsing at a concert in August 2017.

Amanda said, “I had put on quite a lot of weight over a few years and after collapsing at a concert I knew I had to do something.”

“I began a healthy eating plan at the same time, but knew my chances of success would greatly improve if I also did regular exercise.”

Amanda began attending various exercise classes at the leisure centre and working out in its gym. She soon noticed that the pounds were falling off and that her general health was improving.

So far, Amanda, 42, has shed five stone and 34 inches. She also has not suffered an asthma attack since she began her fitness campaign.

Amanda said, “I would encourage anyone to come along to either the classes or to use the gym.”

“All the staff, trainers and other people attending soon made me feel welcome, helping me to fit in and make sensible equipment choices as my fitness began to improve. I have never felt self-conscious or like anyone was making any judgement about my size or ability.”

A new scheme now lets anyone signing up for a direct debit gym membership before Sunday 30th June join for just £5 and then pay nothing until August.

Membership includes access to multiple sites, selected exercise classes and general swimming where available. Anybody taking up the offer will also get a one-to-one induction and receive a personal fitness plan.

The offer is available at the following County Durham leisure centres:

  • Freeman’s Quay Leisure Centre, Durham City
  • The Louisa Centre, Stanley
  • Consett Leisure Centre
  • Abbey Leisure Centre
  • Chester-le-Street Leisure Centre
  • Meadowfield Leisure Centre
  • Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre
  • Riverside Leisure Complex
  • Shildon-Sunnydale Leisure Centre
  • Spennymoor Leisure Centre
  • Teesdale Leisure Centre
  • Woodhouse Close Leisure Complex

Durham County Council’s principal physical activity manager, Andrew Brown, said, “With this special £5 membership offer there is no better time to try out one of our leisure centres.”

“Our memberships can offer you access to our gyms, swimming pools and a variety of fitness classes to help you on your fitness journey.”

To learn more or sign up for the deal, please go to http://www.durham.gov.uk/leisurecentres. Remember to quote ‘JUNE5’ when applying for the offer.

(The featured image shows Amanda Hayton working out at Meadowfield Leisure Centre.)


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