Big changes are coming to one of the oldest community gyms in Plymouth for 2021.
YMCA Plymouth, based on Honicknowle Lane, is due to begin the first stage of their centre-wide development, which includes; modernising their gym with state-of-the art equipment, creating new changing rooms, and developing an innovative ‘immersive’ spin studio.
The over half-a-million-pound refurbishment is the biggest upgrade to the centre since the 1970s and is due to begin shortly and be completed by the end of the summer.
Stacey Ferris, centre manager, said:
“The new first phase of development is upgrading our changing rooms – this will then soon be followed by the gym upgrade and immersive studio.”
“After a difficult year for everyone we’re confident that 2021 is going to be a fantastic one for our facility and the thousands of local people who use our centre and gym.”
YMCA Plymouth has established itself as a leading community gym in Plymouth for over 30 years – combining expert staff alongside a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Its unique gym model means that surplus generated from gym members directly helps support YMCA’s charitable work in the community.
Tom Lavis, chief executive of YMCA Plymouth said:
“Many people don’t realise YMCA is a charity. We always put people first and are genuinely here to make a difference, instead of a profit. Our model goes hand-in-hand with our ethos of giving people the support they need to lead healthier lives.”
Some of YMCA’s charitable work included a busy lockdown period; supplying IT equipment to young people in need, through its Discovery College, as well as providing virtual cardiac rehabilitation sessions for vulnerable adults.
The community ethos even seeps into the gym according to one YMCA gym goer, Stacey Chapman:
“I’ve been to gyms that are quite intimidating, but this one’s just really friendly and open. The staff are supportive and by exercising with other members I’m having fun and I’ve made it a habit.”
Another member, John Nancollis, said:
“I can actually have a conversation, people say hello to me and there are people you can talk to here, whether that’s the staff or members. There’s no jacuzzi or bar – but the people have kept me coming back!”
If you’re interested in joining YMCA Plymouth’s affordable gym today, find out more by visiting their website: www.ymcaplymouth.org.uk
