Time you joined the fitness race

FOR an increasing number of people, healthy living has become a way of life - more through choice than necessity. As the healthy option becomes the norm rather than the alternative, both private business and local authorities have been quick to service the needs of this growth market.

New gyms and private health clubs open up on a regular basis and local authorities have invested millions as the public take up the healthy option.

North Lanarkshire Council operates five major sports and leisure complexes in Lanarkshire - Wishaw Sports Centre, Sir Matt Busby Centre, Airdrie Tryst Leisure Centre, Cumbernauld and Shotts Leisure Centre - all offering fitness and leisure services from the womb to the pension.

The leisure complexes also have creches, where children from six months to eight years old can be supervised while their parents take part in a health activity.

"North Lanarkshire Council's sports facilities offer something for everyone who wants to lead a healthy lifestyle," says John McCanse, Area Manager at Wishaw Sports Centre.

"We cater for all levels at affordable prices, whether it be a regular swim, fitness class, sauna, football or racquet session."

Wishaw has a wide range of exercise and fitness classes from Callenics to Ti Chi. Sections within the Community Services Department also provide dietary advice. Checks on cholesterol and general fitness can be arranged on an individual or group basis.

McCanse explains: "To start with, the individual is usually put through a fitness test to measure the cardiovascular output, and they are regularly checked through the programme."

For many people there is a social aspect to the sessions which enhances the health benefits.

The Tryst Sports Centre is currently working with Lanarkshire Health Board with individuals referred by their GP. As well as the natural health benefits, the patient also gets motivation and incentives for better health.

Facilities at the centres are excellent. Wishaw, Sir Matt Busby's and The Tryst all boast 25-metre pools and teaching pools. They all have a dry-side sports centre and can host both national and international events.

In the private sector, Livingwell Health Clubs have expanded to 12 outlets in Scotland, with 19 planned for the UK this year.

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