A new-look gym at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield (EIS – Sheffield) has been officially opened by world heptathlon silver medalist Jessica Ennis.
The 26-year-old took time out of training at EIS Sheffield, where she is based, to attend a VIP reception marking the relaunch of the Fitness Unlimited gym, which has undergone a major refurbishment project.
Jessica was joined for the ribbon cutting by former Olympic silver medalist and EIS Regional Director, Peter Elliott, and GB wheelchair basketball players, Kevin Hayes and Ian Sagar.
Under a six figure plan, the gym has been transformed to include state-of-the-art Technogym equipment, a new group fitness studio and refurbished changing rooms.
Jessica said: “I was really pleased to be a part of the official opening. The new gym looks fantastic and it has almost doubled in size. I hope it will inspire even more people to take part in fitness activities.”
As an elite and community venue, the gym is used by 2012 athletes such as Jessica Ennis and the GB Boxing squad as well as members of the public, GP referral patients and the On Track: Sheffield scheme for teenage cancer patients.
Steve Brailey, chief executive of Sheffield International Venues (SIV), which operates EIS Sheffield, said: “This new development further demonstrates SIV’s commitment to investing in high quality, diverse facilities at great value for money to drive participation and health.
“We are proud that Fitness Unlimited reaches out to everyone, from 2012 athletes such as Jessica Ennis to members of the public who just want to improve their fitness. Using the inspiration of elite athletes to stimulate the local community to take part in physical activity epitomises exactly what EIS Sheffield was created for.”
Technogym is the official fitness equipment supplier to London 2012, supplying and installing fitness equipment for athletes in the Athletes’ Village and other training venues across the country.
Tony Majakas, Technogym’s UK Project Director for London 2012 commented: “The London 2012 Olympics is a unique chance to promote wellness as a social opportunity and to get increasing numbers of people interested in regular exercise. We look forward to working closely with all our partner Inspire locations, including SIV, to help deliver the long term wellness legacy of the London 2012.”
EIS Sheffield is one of 19 sports, leisure and entertainment facilities operated by SIV.
Fitness Unlimited is Sheffield’s most popular health and fitness scheme and was rolled out into EIS Sheffield when SIV was awarded the management contract in 2011.
Fitness Unlimited membership also offers access to sports facilities and classes at Ponds Forge International Sports Centre, Hillsborough Leisure Centre, Don Valley Stadium, Concord Sports Centre, Graves Tennis and Leisure Centre, Springs Leisure Centre, Stocksbridge Leisure Centre and Heeley Swimming Pool.
For more information about Fitness Unlimited membership visit www.eis-sheffield.co.uk.
