How new group exercise classes can boost your physical and mental health
WELLBEING
Exercise experts – some of David Lloyd ’ s fitness instructors , from left , Nathan Alford , Emma Overton , Byron Bowyer , Mark Thistlewaite , Marnie Sullivan , Susie Kaylor , Lucy Mason , Chris Burns and Rachel Eastwood .
THE MOTIVATORS
How new group exercise classes can boost your physical and mental health
A
range of new group exercise classes has been launched at leading leisure club David Lloyd Teesside – all designed to boost physical and mental wellbeing .
David Lloyd ’ s team of fitness instructors is rolling out the new timetable of sessions from September , designed to match gym-goers of all abilities and get fitness enthusiasts in the best possible shape .
Susie Kaylor was recently appointed group exercise supervisor at the club and has been busy formulating the new programme .
And as a former professional Irish dancer , she can vouch for how much group exercise boosts the body and soul .
Exercise is proven to improve mood , sleep and self-esteem , while reducing stress .
By incorporating physical activity into your daily routine , you can boost your energy levels , stay alert and focused , and perform at your best throughout the working day .
“ The link between physical and mental wellbeing from exercise , and particular group exercise , is proven ,” says 39-year-old Susie , from Norton .
“ We ’ ve found people are more likely to keep exercising more regularly if they get involved in group exercises because they find a structure and there ’ s a community feel to them .
“ We always have people telling us how much a class has really boosted their mood that day and made them feel better .
“ We have members that come regularly , and they are so supportive to new people
PICTURES : TOM BANKS WORDS : MARTIN WALKER
joining the classes . “ You don ’ t have to be an athlete or a body builder . Whether you ’ re a novice or an experienced gym-goer , the classes are for all abilities .”
Susie started Irish dancing at the age of three and spent eight years performing , touring Europe and the USA for shows including Lord of the Dance at Busch Gardens , Tampa Bay , and Virginia , Gael Force , Spirit of Ireland and Magic of the Dance .
After retiring , she spent 15 years working for the NHS as training co-ordinator for children ’ s mental health services , as well as operating as a self-employed fitness instructor .
“ When I retired from Irish dancing , I was always in the gym and doing classes . It was always a big passion for me , so it felt natural to go into it as a career ,” says Susie .
“ And working for the health service I was always promoting the benefits of physical and mental wellbeing and how group exercise can help boost it so much .
“ Working with children , I ’ ve realised the benefits of exercise from an early age and the impact it can have , with families working out together .”
All David Lloyd signature classes remain very much part of the new Teesside timetable , including HIIT class Blaze , cycling sessions Cyclone and Rhythm , energy sessions Ignite and Spirit and outdoor
Fitness lead – Former Irish dancer Susie Kaylor is the new group exercise supervisor at David Lloyd Teesside .
circuit bootcamp , Battlebox – which are all exclusive to David Lloyd .
New sessions include Boxfit and 30-minute HIIT classes , strength and condition sessions and circuits , while new holistic retreats have also been added to the schedules .
“ All group classes are led by certified instructors ,” says Susie .
“ We ’ re creating a wider range of options to suit all gym-goers , while we have a range of sessions for young people as well , including Blaze Rebels , Battlebox Rebels and Ignite Rebels – family-based classes which bring families exercising together and are a great way for families to bond .
“ And for people who go to the gym regularly , all classes can complement an individual training programme or regime .”
David Lloyd Teesside underwent a major £ 3.5m refurbishment in 2023 , adding a luxurious spa facility for members to enjoy .
To enquire about membership at David Lloyd Teesside , or to ask for a tour , call 01642 632100 or email teesside @ davidlloyd . co . uk , quoting Tees Business .
The voice of business in the Tees region | 129