The Fortis Championships, the interclub fitness competition at Everyone Active, enjoyed a second successful year in 2023.

Over 1,000 members entered the competition across the eight centres with Fortis studios, with the top 24 teams taking part in the grand final at Harrow Lodge Leisure Centre on 25 November.

To enter the competition, Everyone Active members took part in challenge classes, which ran for three weeks. Extra sessions were added to the normal Fortis timetable to meet demand.

The workout itself was carefully devised by master trainers at Speedflex, who also provide the concept and equipment behind Fortis.

This year, the focus was firmly on inclusivity, ensuring that members of all ages, abilities and fitness levels could compete against each other and have an equal chance of reaching the top of the leaderboard.

Contestants – who entered in teams of two – could take part in unlimited challenge classes to keep improving their scores.

The operator has found the competition to be the perfect way of reinvigorating the existing Fortis community, by adding an extra incentive when they come to class.

This year, challenge classes were also open to non-members, helping to give an overall boost in participation.

Everyone Active also ran a separate competition for colleagues which proved extremely popular.

Matt Hague, regional fitness business manager at Everyone Active, said:

“Fortis Powered by Speedflex is one of our most popular classes and the Championships have already become a much-anticipated annual highlight.

“Members of all ages and fitness levels take part and thanks to the unique Speedflex concept it’s a real level playing field, rewarding effort over ability.

“We’re proud to have such an inclusive fitness competition which represents our whole member demographic and fitness ethos.”

The Final was hosted by Speedflex Ambassador and self-confessed Fortis fan, celebrity Ben Shephard who commented on the amazing sense of community, healthy competition and wonderful diversity of participants on the day.

James Smith, UK sales director at Speedflex, added:

“Our relationship with Everyone Active represents a best-in-class partnership. By working closely together we have created a truly special event that members can look forward to every year and that continues to ensure the Fortis product goes from strength to strength.”