Functional training is generating a real buzz both for members and for the balance sheet

One Leisure St Ives is the largest of the five sites within the One Leisure portfolio and a recent major redevelopment programme was completed in September 2013, which included a brand new Impressions Fitness Suite.

The project has seen the creation of a specific functional training area which is supported by structured and engaging workout programming, delivered by Escape Training. The new-look space features the biggest ever Escape Octagon and a full range of functional equipment to offer their members great variety and to ensure workouts are always fresh and challenging. The results speak for themselves.

Ollie Ritch, Impressions fitness consultant and personal trainer, said: “In the first four months since the new functional training area was installed, we have achieved 80 per cent of our entire PT business from last year.”

The investment in training is reaping rewards for members too. Rebecca Goode, wellbeing manager at One Leisure said: “The Escape Octagon is a fantastic piece of kit which allows maximum use of space with effective storage. It is also aesthetically pleasing and excites members visually and motivates their training. The classes being delivered in the functional area are fully booked, with people wanting to pre-book to ensure they get a space.”

Tommy Matthews, director of education at Escape Training, said: “Our programming provides everything a club needs to turn on functional group training and make it a success. When properly implemented by a club like One Leisure, members get to experience an exciting group programme that is always changing, allowing members to constantly develop and improve.”

After the initial two-day intensive Move It training, including Octagon training, Impressions at One Leisure now delivers Escape Training’s concept based Move It programme to its members – a 12-month group training programme to keep their members engaged and motivated.

Ollie commented: “The Move It training programmes are important because people see a class going on and it makes them want to get involved. A Move It circuit class is manageable for everyone.”

To ensure both the equipment and members are supported during their workout, the Octagon sits on Pavigym Free Weight flooring. The flooring has been specifically designed and created to include the One Leisure logo and installed by the Escape Flooring team, providing a visually stunning, colour co-ordinated foundation for the space.