Get fit for the Olympics at Northgate

TWO Chester leisure centres are hoping to inject Olympic spirit into residents by opening their doors for free.

Northgate Arena and Christleton Sports Centre are encouraging everyone from toddlers to pensioners to use their facilities free of charge on Sunday August 10.

“We’re giving everyone the chance to get fit in honour of the Olympics,” said Clive Donovan, operations manager of Chester and District Sports and Recreation Trust (CADSART), which run the two leisure centres. “It is a fantastic opportunity for young and old to get some exercise, whether that be in the swimming pool, the gym or even at a karate class.”

The 2008 Beijing Olympics begin on August 8 and last for three weeks.

“The Olympics inspires people to start exercising but very few actually follow through with their good intentions,” said Mr Donovan. “So we’re making it easy for them – by giving them a free trial of our facilities, people can see what type of exercise they might enjoy doing on a regular basis.”

As little as two hours of exercise each week can improve wellbeing and keep the heart healthy. However with people leading busier lives than ever before it has never been harder to find time to keep fit.

“We believe that the more options we offer to help increase fitness the better,” said Mr Donovan. “Deciding on the best form of exercise can be hard - it has to fit in with your lifestyle, give you results quickly and safely and not be expensive.”

On Sunday the swimming pool, gym, all classes and sports hall activities at the two centres will be available free of charge. These include indoor athletics, basketball, handball, Ju Jitsu and Taekwondo.

Northgate Arena will be open from 8am until 10pm and Christleton Sports Centre from 10am until 10pm.

CADSART is a charitable organisation which operates a number of leisure centres around Cheshire.