The gym that fixed it for us!

THERE’S no lycra, no muscle men and no mirrors — and that’s just how the Gymophobics like it.

The women-only gym in High Street, Oldham town centre, has around 250 members on its books, aged from 15 to 90.

Anyone can join and the specialised programmes can be tailored to suit all ages, abilities and fitness levels.

The circuit is a mix of cardio-vascular, isotonics and callisthenics designed to stretch and tone every muscle group and increase mobility.

Each session lasts half an hour — three minutes on 10 different stations — and settings on all the machines can be adjusted to suit individual needs.

Manager Michele Saville said: “When customers first join us they have an induction so we know if there are any specific medical problems and we set their programme up accordingly. After that, we review their progress constantly and make changes where needed.

“Staff receive intensive training initially and we have regular meetings and training sessions to ensure their skills are always up- to-date.

“The women who come here are all different ages, shapes and sizes and they feel a lot more comfortable here than they would in a mixed gym with mirrors and lycra. They like the fact that they don’t stick out and can just come in and get on with their exercise.”

The benefits of the programme include weight loss, inch loss, toning up, improved energy levels, increased stamina and a greater chance of fighting off osteoporosis and arthritis.

Michele added: “We ask all our ladies to keep track of their progress on brightly coloured cards which are stuck up in reception so everyone can be encouraged by how well they are doing. The longer you can keep moving and keep active, the better.”

In addition to the exercise, Gymophobics also gives its members the chance to make new friends and socialise with a coffee after their workout.

Michele said: “Some of the ladies are on their own. This gives them structure. It gets them out of the house for something positive and they can interact with others.

“We have several disabled members. Coming here widens their social circle and gives them the chance to experience new things.

“I truly believe Gymophobics helps to prolong lives and improve quality of life.”

To join, call 0161-850 9050 or visit www.gymophobics.co.uk