60 Second UK Fitness News - 13th May 2016

In this weeks 60 second news: it was reported that Pure Gym’s membership figures have risen by over 50% since they took over the LA Fitness clubs last year. From this Monday, 16th May you’ll be able to see how this compares with the rest of the market when we release the 2016 State of The UK Fitness Industry Report.  For more information on what’s covered in this year’s report look out for our press release or head to leisuredb.com.

On Wednesday Sweat Coin was released into the UK Apple App Store. The app converting exercise to a digital currency known as ‘sweatcoins’ which can exchange steps for rewards or even charity donations. Although we haven’t been blown away by the app we do think it has potential.

Lastly, FitGroupUK, a new body consisting of group exercise opinion leaders has been brought together with the ultimate aim of introducing more people to group exercise, given that participation figures plateaued in recent years. Here at LeisureDB we want to know what is your favourite group exercise class and why? Tweet us @TLDC_UK to join the conversation. 

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60 Second UK Fitness News - 6th May 2016

In this week’s 60 second news; more news from the Fitness First sale as Bannatyne’s has announced an interest in some sites. Bannatyne’s doubled its profits last year after refurbishing half their clubs which helped boost member numbers. The chain has acknowledged that the market is polarising and has focused on being a luxury health club.

When ClassPass first landed in the UK it all appeared too good to be true and unfortunately it is. Class Pass has announced this week that it will be upping its prices from £79 to £110. After disputes with some of the more premium offerings available to ClassPass user, which appeared to have been settled, ClassPass is now having to hit the pockets of its customers. 

Here are LeisureDB we’ve managed to get our hands on a Skulpt Chisel. Available for $99 the Skulpt chisel measures your muscle quality and fat percentage. It’s based around the theory of tracking results not activity. Keep an eye on our blog for a review of the product.  

Lastly, it has been reported by Statista that health and fitness apps are now in the top 10 in the app store beating music, sports and social networking. David, our director has spoken about the rise of brands going from CES to IHRSA this year, and these stats show the ever increasing presence of the digital market in our industry. To read David’s roving report for IHRSA head to theleisurereview.co.uk  

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60 SECOND UK FITNESS NEWS - 29th APRIL 2016

In this weeks 60 second News: It has been announced that Lichfield District Council are exploring the option of outsourcing both Friary Grange and Burntwood leisure centres. The council said they will only outsource if there are real financial savings to be made. 

Elsewhere in the public sector The Castle Leisure Centre will be opening on the 30th April and will be managed by Fusion, however, given that SLM or Everyone Active have won the contract for Southwark council the management will be changing just 2 months after opening. 

Snap Fitness, a 24hour fitness franchise from the US, has announced a major development plan for the UK. Currently they have just 9 sites across England and Wales, with plans to open another 30 sites.

Lastly, we would like to congratulate everyone who has been nominated for a Flame Award this year. The awards are sponsored by Matrix and the winners will be announced at the ceremony in June. Good luck to all nominees! 

Thanks for watching! I’m Jennifer Schooling and that was your news in 60 Seconds.

60 Second UK Fitness News - 22nd April 2016

In this week's 60 Second News: It’s no surprise to us that the according to the European Health & Fitness Market Study 2016, the budget gym sector has again increased its share in the Fitness Market. You’ll be able to find out how this has affected the UK in our fitness report which is now due to be published mid-May. To register an interest in the report click here.

Here at LeisureDB we’re excited to announce this year we will be releasing a new report titled the LeisureDB Social Media Index. We will be comparing how well the top private brands in the industry perform on social media. And if you are wondering what platforms are right for you why not head to Action PR's blog and to find out.

And the world of online dating has arrived in our gyms, 1Rebel has teamed up with popular app Bumble with its latest offering of a combat-themed speed-dating class. 1Rebel is hoping to unite sweaty Betty with her prince charming during their rumble sessions.

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60 Second UK Fitness News - Dec 2015

In this weeks 60 second news; our director, David Minton claims it’s time for the fitness industry to innovate or die, this echoes similar belief to that of Les Mills Chief Exec Martin Franklin who states an unwillingness to go digital could be what kills the industry. And Pivotal Living are helping everyone to get digital by bringing a £15 fitness tracker to the market. The tracker has sold out until Jan in the US, where it’s only $12. But if you’re not sure about wearable tech then maybe a Tech Tattoo is what you’re looking for? Chaotic Moon have announced they are working on a prototype for a bio wearable to track your medical and activity data.

Also this week, it's been announced that Sports Direct Fitness have acquired the Print Works Health Club and Spa at London Olympia, and we would like to congratulate all the winners at the 2015 National Fitness Awards especially Burnley Leisure who picked up 3 awards! Thanks for watching.