THE Epic Leisure Centre is to pioneer a national scheme to help people with health problems gain easier access to gyms.
Backed by support from the Fitness Industry Association, the EPIC is introducing a new initiative that scraps the red tape and additional costs that can deter people wanting to get fit.
Currently anyone with a medical condition, disability or concerns about their health may be turned away or asked to supply a doctor’s note before they are allowed a gym membership.
The scheme has won Government approval and is being seen as the way ahead for the fitness and health industry.
Steve Edwards, health and fitness officer with CADSART, which is the charitable trust which runs the EPIC, said: “When people have concerns about their health but are trying to do something about it by joining a gym it seems silly to put obstacles in their way.
“Instead of having to gain medical certificates, and the costs associated with them, people can now make a Health Commitment Statement.
“It allows people to take responsibility for their own health and brings gyms in line with virtually all other sports and active leisure pursuits,”
Gym users will still be able to discuss their health issues with fitness consultants but are now able to make their own decisions over whether they are fit enough to exercise.
