Sandwell Leisure Trust has created an exercise haven tailored for those who struggle to access traditional gym settings due to their age, health or mobility.

The trust has transformed a former meeting room into the Live Well Studio, which is attracting a diverse group of new users including stroke victims and wheelchair users.

Located at Portway Lifestyle Centre in Oldbury, West Midlands, the studio opened in September 2023 with six pieces of Innerva’s power-assisted exercise equipment inherited from Langley Swimming Centre, which closed in 2022.

Since its launch, the studio has recorded an impressive 1,500 visits from the local community, with many users booking in for four to five sessions a week. The inclusive and inviting environment provides a safe and gentle 30-minute workout suitable for people over the age of 16 and all levels of fitness, including older adults, those new to exercise and people with health conditions.

“The studio has attracted people you wouldn’t find in your everyday gym, including wheelchair users, those with visual impairment and stroke victims. People tell us the equipment is really improving their quality of life,” says Liz Griffin, Site Fitness Coordinator for Portway Lifestyle Centre.

One of the features of the Live Well Studio is its relaxed and friendly setting, which appeals to people who are uncomfortable in traditional gyms, she says.

“Users like the cosiness of the studio which encourages social interaction and allows people to have a good natter with each other. The social aspect is just as important for some of our users as the physical benefits they get from the equipment.”

John Harling, Leisure Manager at Portway Lifestyle Centre, says: “We are really pleased with the performance of the Live Well Studio and the power assisted exercise equipment. We have seen a steady increase in usage and interest, with 30 new members signing up since the New Year and over 1,500 visits since it launched.”

Sandwell Leisure Trust has partnered with a variety of organisations to provide access to the studio and enhance its role as a community hub. These include Sandwell Adult Social Care Services and the Albion Foundation, which works with adults with learning difficulties.

“We work daily with individuals who have various disabilities and the Live Well Studio has become a firm favourite with them. We have individuals who have lost weight, gained confidence and increased mobility since using the studio equipment,” says Lynn and Donna from Sandwell Adult Social Care Services.

In addition to free studio inductions, the trust offers flexible pay-as-you-go options, concessions for those on low incomes and discounted membership for the over 50s to reduce barriers to entry and make the Live Well Studio accessible to a broad range of community members.

Live Well Studio user, Elaine, aged 68, says: “I have been using the Live Well studio since October and I have noticed a great difference in my mobility. I struggle with arthritis and poor circulation and find the machines very comfortable to use. I have met some lovely people since using this little gym and the staff are very friendly.”

Liz Wright, Sales Manager at Innerva, said: “I was quite emotional when Liz took me on a tour of Portway Lifestyle Centre. As someone with both a physical and hidden disability, I was moved to see how inclusion is at the heart of everything they do. It’s excellent to hear how well the studio is performing, which is testament to the team’s approach and key partnerships.”