A new children’s fitness facility is set to open at Gateshead Leisure Leisure Centre on 11 April.

The Active8 gym has been developed by Gateshead Council to provide young people in the area with a new opportunity to exercise and to encourage them to take part in out of school activities.

The facility will consist of nine pieces of cardiovascular equipment and nine resistance machines specifically designed for seven- to 14-year-olds, but can be used by anyone under six feet tall.

Users will take part in circuit training sessions led by instructors, which involve using every piece of equipment and warm-up and cool-down stretches. Family drop-in sessions will also be available.

“Inactivity and obesity in young people is a national problem and a growing concern for all parents,” said James McElroy, cabinet member for culture At Gateshead Council.

“We are committed to maximising the number of opportunities young people have to get more active and to looking at new and innovative ways to encourage them to lead a healthier lifestyle. The emphasis behind the new Activ8 gym is on making exercise fun.

“The gym doesn’t focus on one particular sport, so youngsters don't have to worry about knowing any rules or being part of a competitive team.”