Participation Rates Soar with Active Luton
Since launching the Profiles Health and Fitness Suite at Lea Manor Recreation Centre in December 2006, participation levels have increased dramatically and over 1400 inductions have already been carried out.
The facility was created by converting two under-utilised squash courts and installing top of the range Life Fitness equipment.
This includes 38 CV products with integrated entertainment screens, together with 20 pieces from the Strength Series. The refurbishment was part of a regeneration programme for the Marsh Farm area, with funding provided by Sport England, New Deal and Active Luton.
Ian Hobdell, Health & Fitness Manager for Active Luton, explains: “We wanted to be able to offer a high class facility at a very competitive rate, and create an environment which people enjoy exercising in. The results speak for themselves, with 50% of users choosing to take up the monthly membership options. We also aim to be fully inclusive, so it was important that the equipment was IFI compliant and appropriate for users with different types of impairment.”
Active Luton is committed to promoting activity within all sections of the community and has developed a number of initiatives to encourage participation, particularly amongst minority groups. One of the latest schemes is the introduction of 16 dance mats, which are being used to engage with younger users. The programme is currently being run in conjunction with the schools sports co-ordinators in the local area, and from June will be available to all members. The trust is also involved with the FIA’s GO scheme to encourage teenage girls to maintain activity levels, and offers a number of women only sessions for those who may be unable to attend on religious grounds.
Ian Hobdell adds: “Not only are we investing in the facilities themselves, we are also improving our levels of customer service through well trained instructors, better monitoring and evaluation processes and increased communication with our members. We are working hard to provide activities that will appeal to the whole family and encourage participation regardless of age, ability or ethnicity.”
Active Luton is a relatively young leisure trust. It was formed in November 2005 and works in partnership with Luton Borough Council to provide sports development opportunities and a wide range of leisure facilities across the town. Its sites include five leisure centres, two swimming pools, a dedicated athletics arena and public golf course with floodlit driving range.
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