SANDWELL Leisure Trust has created an exercise haven tailored for those who struggle to access traditional gym settings due to their age, health or mobility.
A former meeting room has been transformed into the Live Well Studio, which is attracting a diverse group of new users including stroke victims and wheelchair users.
Located at Portway Lifestyle Centre in Oldbury, West Midlands, the studio is home to six pieces of Innerva’s power-assisted exercise equipment inherited from Langley Swimming Centre, which closed in 2022.
Since its launch, the studio has recorded 1,500 visits from the local community, with many users booking in for four to five sessions a week. The inclusive and inviting environment provides a safe and gentle 30-minute workout suitable for people over the age of 16 and all levels of fitness, including older adults, those new to exercise and people with health conditions.
“The studio has attracted people you wouldn’t find in your everyday gym, including wheelchair users, those with visual impairment and stroke victims,” said Liz Griffin, site fitness coordinator for Portway Lifestyle Centre. “People tell us the equipment is really improving their quality of life,”
One of the features of the Live Well Studio is its relaxed and friendly setting, which appeals to people who are uncomfortable in traditional gyms, she says.
Liz added: “Users like the cosiness of the studio which encourages social interaction and allows people to have a good natter with each other. The social aspect is just as important for some of our users as the physical benefits they get from the equipment.”
Sandwell Leisure Trust has partnered with a variety of organisations to provide access to the studio and enhance its role as a community hub. These include Sandwell Adult Social Care Services and the Albion Foundation, which works with adults with learning difficulties.