Hamilton’s Honour is Leicester’s newest fitness studio opening, with the latest innovation from Technogym. But this studio has a unique story, too. Owner Louis Hamilton tells us why he was determined to create such a special place

I’ve seen the fitness and sports sectors from a lot of angles,” explains Hamilton. “I was a full-time football player until I was released due to injury, then entered the fitness industry and worked in a council gym for six years. From there I went self-employed and worked out of my converted garage for five years. I always knew I wanted to open a studio, and used those years to save up every penny.”

The gym’s name hints at the driving force behind Louis’s hard work.

Hamilton lost his father, much-loved football player Neville Hamilton, shortly before his 18th birthday. An annual sporting award dedicated to him is given for community events or remarkable achievements in sport.

Hamilton’s Honour was created to continue the Hamilton family’s dedication to community fitness.

“It’s been hard work with lots of challenges,” says Hamilton. “But I never stopped working towards the dream, and Technogym has been amazingly helpful throughout the entire journey.”

“My vision for Hamilton’s Honour goes beyond being a fitness business,” says Hamilton. “I want to support the local community, give a lot back, and raise funds for charity through our activities.

Giving back is a big theme for Hamilton and his team. Even before the studio had officially opened, he had leveraged the gym’s social media to raise over £1,400 for British Heart Foundation in memory of his father.

Home-feel
Hamilton’s Honour offers the highest standard of service and facilities in a welcoming, home-feel studio. This new fitness facility, now equipped with the latest Technogym innovations, has opened its doors and welcomed members to experience the Excite Live cardio range.

“I set out to create a quiet, spacious, private environment where people could feel as though they were training in a home gym – if a home gym could have stunning décor and state of the art equipment!” says Hamilton. “I took my inspiration from top locations in the hospitality sector, working with a designer and with Technogym to create the look and feel I wanted.”

“Our membership is capped at 400 which means members will always have the space and attention they deserve.”

Hamilton’s Honour is completely kitted out with Technogym equipment and the partnership has brought the vision to life. There’s an Olympic lifting area, a cardio zone (with Excite Live Run), a HIIT and functional area (featuring Skill Line products), and an Omnia functional training rig with attachments accompanying a half-size boxing ring, tucked away behind a design wall.

“My aim was always to create a beautiful space with premium products,” says Hamilton. “I looked at other equipment companies but none came close to Technogym. Their equipment looks beautiful and ties in with my theme, and offers the latest technology.

“Partnering with Technogym means I will always be at the forefront of innovation. Technogym is a true partner – they helped me design the space, install the equipment, train my staff on the technology, and put together the best package of content for my members.

“Hamilton’s Honour’s membership runs from beginners through to elite athletes, and Technogym offers something for everyone.”

Advanced Innovation
“Excite Live is the most advanced and innovative product out there,” says Hamilton. “It’s perfect for members of any level, because Technogym Live works with the user to guide them through a pre-set programme.

Beginners can join in with live routines, and advanced athletes can push themselves with the fast track controls, changing speed and incline on the fly. Excite Live is amazing, and feedback has been incredible. People have never used anything like it.”

Hamilton also chose to feature the Mywellness app, which is helping him create the all-important community feel at Hamilton’s Honour.

“We want our members to have all their fitness information in one place, and that’s what Mywellness does,” he explains. “All of the Technogym equipment links to their Mywellness, and they can track data outside the gym too. It all links to our leader board, and we can set challenges and prizes. I want to give back as much as I can to people using the gym.

“Technogym’s support and innovative products have brought my dream to life. They’ve been a phone call away the whole time and I am grateful to have them as a partner.”

More: www.technogym.com