Following demand from parents to help keep their children and teenagers active in a safe and structured environment, Blackburn with Darwen borough council’s leisure team have designed a tailored programme specifically for those aged 10 and above, which will be available in all three leisure centres in the borough – Blackburn, Darwen and Witton, from Monday 12 January.
The membership, called Kickstart will offer gym access with instructor support, unlimited swimming and track use; plus, junior-only fitness classes, for only £15 a month on a direct debit, with no minimum contract term or additional fees.
The offering focuses on age-appropriate fitness training, which includes developing movement skills, coordination, technique, confidence, teamwork and general fitness. All gym and group fitness class sessions are fully supervised by qualified instructors, ensuring activities are suitable for each age group and ability level; and delivered in a fun and friendly way.
Instead of lifting heavy weights or doing high-risk exercises, juniors will focus on bodyweight exercises, light resistance and functional movements, with good balance and posture.
Classes will be held at Blackburn and Darwen Leisure Centre’s every Monday to Friday at 3.45pm for half an hour, with gym access at 4.15pm. At Witton Park, sessions at the same times will be available on a Monday, Thursday and Friday. Swimming access at Darwen and Blackburn and track access at Witton will be in line with the regular timetable availability. All classes can be booked by visiting your local leisure centre or on the BwD Leisure app, which you can download on Android and Apple. Find out more on the Kickstart page, on BwD Leisure’s website.
Councillor Jim Smith, Executive Member for Environment and Resident Services said:
We’ve been asked for it many times, so I’m delighted that very soon we’ll be able to offer a junior membership and dedicated classes to 10 to 15 year-olds at BwD Leisure.
As a council owned service, it’s important that our leisure centres provide an opportunity for children and adults of all ages to take part in movement that makes them feel good.
We anticipate that there will be strong take-up once the programme is fully launched; and I look forward to hearing all about it.
Councillor Julie Gunn, Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education said:
As a council, we want to encourage healthy habits from an early age.
With growing awareness of the importance of physical activity for young people’s physical and mental wellbeing, this new offering is going to be brilliant addition to our existing catalogue.
It also fits very well with two of our Corporate missions: ensuring every child and young person fulfills their potential and building healthier, happier, and safer communities. It’s a win-win all round.
Sessions will be available to book through the app from Monday 12 January.
For full information, including the timetable, visit BwD Leisure.