A NEW specialised wellbeing studio has opened at Thornbury Leisure Centre. 

The new gym space - which has cost £140,000 - includes innovative Innerva power-assisted exercise equipment

Staff say the equipment is ideal for people who are not used to regular exercise,
rehabilitate, manage health conditions, and remain mobile in later life.

An official launch event took place on Thursday, July 11. 

Dean Barney, Thornbury’s centre manager, said: “We’re thrilled to be opening our new wellbeing studio. 

“The team has done a fantastic job making the environment welcoming and accessible. 

“We are looking forward to helping people from all walks of life improve their overall wellbeing and lead a healthier and happier life.”
 
The Thornbury investment is part of an ongoing £2.4M scheme across South Gloucestershire by the Circadian Trust.

The trust says they want to improve access to health and wellbeing for all residents.  

The new addition in Thornbury is similar to equipment that’s been available in Bradley Stoke since 2017.

Mary Slader, aged 68, from Olveston, has been attending the Bradley Stoke studio since 2022, when she was told she needed a knee replacement.

"To have this new wellness studio at the Thornbury centre is now even better as it's only five minutes from me,” she said. 

"It's also great seeing people around Thornbury and in the community, to stop for a chat out at the shops. 

“I think it's a wonderful set up and think anyone who is in my shoes, or just generally wants to take things a little easier than in the bigger gyms should give it a go.

"They won't regret it.”

Jim Rollo, head of health and wellbeing at Circadian Trust, said: “Power-assisted equipment helps people of all ages safely exercise all the major muscle groups, even if they have a health condition, or are rehabilitating following injury.
 
“No matter what age you are, it's been shown to improve muscle strength, flexibility, balance and mobility, core strength and posture. 

“And the relaxed and friendly atmosphere of the studio is perfect for meeting and chatting with others, offering mental health benefits as well as physical ones.” 

Liz Wright, Innerva’s UK sales manager, said: ‘We’ve been delighted to support the team at Circadian with the new developments at Thornbury. 
 
“It’s clear to see from the ongoing success of the existing site at Bradley Stoke that the new wellbeing studio at Thornbury will provide real health improvements for the residents local to the centre, allowing more people across South Gloucestershire and the surrounding areas to access a safe, accessible exercise and rehabilitation offer. 
 
“Circadian Trust’s commitment to their local communities is clear for all to see and we’re proud to be working with such a passionate and innovative team who really are focused on improving health and access for all.”