A new state of the art gym is on its way to the Zest Centre in Upperthorpe. The Centre is set to be transformed with the refurbishment of its fitness facilities. Work is currently underway and extensive changes are going to be made to the gym, exercise studio and changing facilities.

A new multi purpose mezzanine floor will be built into to the gym increasing its size by 50%. A range of new equipment will be incorporated to enhance the existing range and provide more choice for users. There will also be more space for floor exercises and the gym will be accessible for disabled users.

Operations manager Brian Wilkinson said: "Zest is a community lead centre and we take our customers opinions on board whenever we are making changes to the centre and its services. The improvements we are making are in response to customer feedback so that we can continue to provide an excellent service for them."

As well as the Gym, the changing facilities and exercise studio will also be given a facelift. The changing facilities will be redecorated and refurbished with new furnishings and the layout of the changing rooms will be enhanced with the introduction of private changing cubicles/areas.

The exercise studio will be given a total makeover with new décor, air conditioning and a new floor.

Brian added "This is very exciting for Zest and its customers. We are already on Phase II of the refurbishment and we are looking to complete the project just before Christmas."

As well as offering the usual gym finds, such as treadmills and cross trainers, Zest are also going to provide a celebrity favourite – the Power Plate.

Used by stars such as Madonna, the machine simulates the body’s natural response to vibration. As the body tries to remain balanced the machine fine-tunes the muscles in the body. The Power Plate isn’t just for fitness fanatics, it’s great for those who want to include something different into their gym routine but also has sports-specific benefits.

The unique element of Zest’s fitness facilities is that it is aimed at the everyday person who is interested in their health. Marketing Officer Priya Shirt said: "Customers have said they really enjoy attending Zest because people are focused on being healthy and it has a very friendly atmosphere."

As part of the refurbishment the new gym at Zest will be the first facility in the city to invest in a medical machine which can perform an ECG, which monitors the regularity of heartbeats. The team is trained to support those with specific medical requirements, as the centre is a popular referral centre for those with pulmonary and heart problems.

Many of us lead extremely busy lives but still want to be healthy. The Zest centre provides the best opportunities for you to get involved in exercise in a relaxed environment. They also have an experienced and qualified team who will ensure you reach your goals, however big or small. Make your life, and your family’s lives, healthier and fitter with the help of the Zest Centre.