SCHOOLCHILDREN on the Fylde are being given the chance to get physical with the opening of a new gym.
Rugby star Nick King and his partner have invested thousands into the Atomic gym in St Annes.
And they hope the controversial closure of the town's swimming pool in July will mean kids across the coast can keep fit by joining up.
Specialist equ
ipment has been brought into the facility on Back Crescent West for children from the age of five to use with the help of trained instructors.
The gym was facing closure after the previous owner announced her retirement but second-row forward Nick and partner Holly Hulme have rescued the business and hope the fitness centre will lessen the blow of the pools closure.
Holly, a professional dancer and fitness instructor, said: "Fitness in children is very important to us.
"The equipment we have can be used by children from age five so there is no excuse for not keeping fit.
"We want to help combat the problems with childhood obesity.
"With the closure of the swimming pool being announced earlier this month we feel this is even more important.
"Although we may not have a pool the gym is fully equipped for children as well as adults."
Mr King joined Fylde in 2005 from National One club Nottingham. He used to coach the Fylde Colts before taking over the gym.
Holly added: "With the pool closing there is a danger that more children will be without sports facilities.
"If they can't even go to the baths with the schools then at least we can give them a chance here."
The full article contains 281 words and appears in Blackpool Gazette newspaper.
