New exercise and sports come to Regent's Park

19th October 2006
New exercise and sports come to Regent's Park

As part of a planned programme of developing sports provision in Regent's Park, the Hub sports facility is responding to changing demands by increasing the range of sports and fitness pursuits it offers.

Already a popular destination for sports men and women, local teams, schools and community youth groups, The Hub, on the northern side of Regent's Park is adding to its existing sports provision. As well as running a regular exercise programme including pilates, yoga, circuit training and jogging and catering for more traditional team sports such as football, cricket, rugby and softball, The Hub is introducing:

Free taster sessions in Nordic Walking. These introductory sessions will be followed by a six week course of classes leading up until Christmas 2006. Nordic Walking originates from summer training for cross-country skiers. It works your upper and lower body at the same time, strengthening the back, legs and arms, and reducing neck and shoulder tension, while improving the health of heart and lungs.

Free exercise classes (Hip Hop and Pop dance, Pilates, Yoga and Boxercise) for 14-18 year olds during half-term, to be followed with a series of after-school clubs in alternative exercise

A parent & pram class for young mothers who wish to exercise in a safe environment with a qualified instructor

Speaking about the new activities, Hub Manager Beth Andrew said: "It's important for us to keep up with changing tastes and to respond to interest from the public in new sports and activities. We're keen to focus on people that are new to sport and exercise and welcome people of all ages and abilities from the local community. With a bigger range of sport and exercise now available, and some of our adult classes starting from as little as £1 per class, there's never been a better time to keep active, fit and well for this winter."

By offering a wide range of sports and exercise options, and promoting access for all, The Hub helps The Royal Parks to support government objectives in promoting healthy activity, tackling childhood obesity and countering social exclusion. In addition, The Hub runs private exercise and sports sessions for people with learning difficulties, for people with mental health problems and even those recently diagnosed as suffering with coronary heart disease.

For full details of opening times and sports and exercise programmes available at The Hub, call 020 7935 2458 or visit www.royalparks.org.uk

Media contacts:
Bruce Sparrow Tel: 07970 660132, E-mail: bsparrow@royalparks.gsi.gov.uk

Notes to editors

The Hub multi-sports pavilion and adjacent pitches provide Park provide a focal point for sport and physical activity in central London. It will provide changing rooms, social space, meeting areas and facilities for up to 150,000 a year.

Most of the Hub is underground, letting it merge into the Grade I listed landscape and giving a 360 panoramic view over the sports pitches and across the Park. It has space for up to 290 people with 20 fully equipped changing rooms, including facilities for referees and those with disabilities. There are areas for education and vocational training, space for quieter sports such as yoga, and a community club room.

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