The past year has been a tough one for the leisure and fitness industry. We worked with the team at Energie Fitness in Wokingham on a Changing Places project last year, and we recently caught up with General Manager Adam Piper to find out what the Covid-19 pandemic has meant for his business, and why he is feeling cautiously optimistic about the future.

Getting everyone fit is a real passion for you isn’t it?

It really is! I really want to get everyone on their feet and getting active; the whole community. When people exercise, they are happier, healthier and more motivated.

Is that why you wanted to include a Changing Places toilet in your new gym?

Absolutely. Our Wokingham project has been in planning and preparation for over two years and from the very start, I knew I wanted to create a community gym that was accessible to everyone. Comedienne Rosie Jones recently appeared on a Channel 4 documentary where she mystery shopped gyms to highlight some major shortcomings in the sector regarding accessibility. After viewing this programme, I decided to have a look at how accessible facilities were in the local area and was shocked to discover that Wokingham only had one Changing Places facility in the whole Borough. It was there and then that I decided that this had to be a priority in our gym.

What can people expect when they visit your Changing Places toilet?

We changed the original design to incorporate a 12m² Changing Places facility with fully accessible equipment:

  • Astor CTX Changing Table
  • Astor OT200 HoistAstor ABW CP Height Adjustable Washbasin
  • Fixed Privacy Screen
  • Peninsular Toilet
  • A Shower
  • Accessories including a colostomy bag shelf

The door to Energie Fitness’ Changing Places toilet

 

You haven’t had the first year you would have wanted. What impact has the pandemic had on the gym?

It hasn’t been easy. We haven’t yet been able to open the gym to the community as we initially hoped. But, while the gym has been closed we have been able to put comprehensive protective processes and features in place. As part of that we have installed an air purification system that kills 99% of surface and 97% of airborne bacteria and viruses, and numerous sanitising stations.

How are you feeling about the possibility of being able to open soon?

Really positive. We feel ready to welcome people into the gym, knowing that we have made it as safe as it possibly can be. Alongside all the other protective measures, customers will be able to see how many people are at the gym at all times and will be able to book slots in advance via their app. Plus, staff will be ensuring gym-users are social distancing, workout spaces are clean, and hand sanitiser is available.

Energie Fitness is due to open on 12th April 2021.

 

The Changing Places Toilet at Energie Fitness, Wokingham

 

ABOUT ENERGIE FITNESS, WOKINGHAM

Energie Fitness Wokingham is a brand-new family-run club. They provide high quality facilities and premium equipment as well as a wide range of classes to suit all kinds of fitness goals, from gaining strength to increasing your mobility. For a more individualised experience, they offer one-to-one sessions with superb personal trainers.

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Discover Changing Places with Aveso

As official sponsors of the Changing Places campaign, we are passionate about creating spaces which provide a safe environment for people with additional needs. We can help every step of the way; from initial advice on feasibility and funding, to planning and design, through to installation. Book a consultation to find out more.

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