Long Stratton Leisure Centre has record membership uplift after renovation

Long Stratton Leisure Centre underwent a major £2 million renovation in 2019.  The existing building was redeveloped into a state-of-the-art facility with a new 80-station gym featuring the latest equipment from Matrix Fitness.

Daniel Infanti, General Manager at Long Stratton Leisure Centre comments: “As a council run gym, we recognised that we needed a facility that offered something to everyone, of all different abilities and fitness levels. It wasn’t just about modernising but about really considering the needs of our members and creating something that gave them the best experience possible.”

The original layout limited the gym to separate rooms for cardio and free weights, which created an inconvenient and intimidating space for members. South Norfolk Council enlisted the help of Matrix Fitness, collaborating with them on equipment and design.

“I can’t speak highly enough of the support that Matrix Fitness gave us throughout this entire project. Not only did they advise us on the design, layout and equipment for the gym but they also set us up with a temporary gym facility whilst our refurbishment was being done, and due to the high standard of this we managed to grow our membership by 100 during that time.”

The new look included an open plan layout, a balance between the cardio area, free weights and functional training. This included the latest Matrix Fitness connected strength and cardio equipment, a Connexus rig, S-Drive Performance Trainer and a Double Mega Race.

“We have seen a massive uplift in membership since the renovation, having not just retained our current members, but enticed old members back and welcomed members from new markets.” Infanti adds. “Our class exercise timetable has doubled due to demand and the footfall has gone through the roof. We now see 15,000 people through our doors each month compared to 5,000 before the refurbishment.”

After the renovation, targets were to have 800 members by the end of March 2020, which was more than doubling the original membership figures. The team had already exceeded that target by November 2019, with membership now at over 920 and anticipating more to come in the New Year.

Tim Grainger-Smith, Head of Sales – Public Sector at Matrix Fitness comments: “This was a project not just about providing gym equipment, but about supporting a team from start to finish. We worked together to ensure that temporary facilities were in place whilst the refurbishment was ongoing, with new members even drawn to join during this time, and then focused on helping the team create an accessible, inviting and engaging training space for members of all abilities.”

“At Matrix Fitness, we like to take on partnerships, providing guidance and expertise in any aspect we can, from the initial design to the day the doors are open to the public. And it’s been fantastic to see the positive impact this renovation has already had on the members, staff and the wider community.”

To find out more about Long Stratton Leisure Centre visit www.south-norfolk.gov.uk or to learn about how Matrix Fitness can transform your fitness offering visit www.matrixfitness.co.uk