Date: 19/01/2010
More than 220 fitness fans got their New Year off to a healthy start with free taster sessions at two High Peak leisure centres.
Ninety eight keep fit enthusiasts flocked to Glossop Leisure Centre on Monday 11 January to try their hand at cardio blast, boxercise and circuit training.
Highlights of the open day included advice from physiotherapist Anna Parker, of Body Works Injury Clinic; fitness tips from NHS specialists, and home fire prevention presentations by Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Howard Town Brewery staged a mini beer festival to showcase local ales while the Barista restaurant served up a free buffet.
Three days later, New Mills Leisure Centre was the venue for an open day attended by 123 prospective customers who had a go at step aerobics, boxercise, body conditioning and aqua fit.
Niche Health and Beauty gave free demonstrations while Cathy Wright, from the Rowan Clinic, was on hand to offer advice on nutrition. What is more, the Gherkin Café and Sandwich Bar provided a free buffet.
Just for good measure, the New Mills event raised £33 for Cancer Research.
The open days were organised by High Peak Borough Council and DC Leisure, which manages the local authority's leisure centres.
Said Andrew Bingham, Executive Councillor for Social and Community Development: "These free open days are all about showing residents what's on offer in the hope that they'll sign up for some of our fitness programmes.
"The aim is to promote healthy lifestyles, which is why I'm pleased that so many people turned up for the taster sessions", he added.