News

Bradley Stoke Active Lifestyle Centre is celebrating a decade of supporting local people to move more, feel better and live healthier lives with a £170,000 reinvestment, and new power assisted equipment, in its Wellbeing Studio.

As the studio approaches its 10-year anniversary, the significant upgrade demonstrates Circadian Trust's continued commitment to invest back into the communities it serves, ensuring local people have access to welcoming, inclusive spaces that support health, wellbeing and independence.

Over the past ten years, the Wellbeing Studio has become much more than a place to exercise. It has helped hundreds of people build confidence, improve mobility, manage health conditions, reduce social isolation and take positive steps towards improving their overall wellbeing. For many, it has provided a supportive introduction to physical activity in an environment designed around encouragement rather than intimidation.

This latest investment reinforces that commitment, enhancing facilities for older adults, people living with long-term health conditions, those recovering from illness or injury and anyone who may feel traditional gym environments are not for them.

The benefits are reflected in the experiences of members such as Alison, who uses the Wellbeing Studio at Bradley Stoke Active Lifestyle Centre:

 “When I first had my knee surgery, I couldn’t really move; I had complications. I’ve got to the stage now where I can move a lot more and I can go to the gym and cycle and do all the things that I used to be able to do. If you haven’t got a lot of confidence, it is a really good place to start because everybody is more or less in the same boat.”

At the heart of the upgraded studio is a suite of power-assisted equipment from UK manufacturer Innerva, designed to support active ageing and make movement accessible for people of all abilities. Research carried out by Innerva and Sheffield Hallam University found that 94% of users reported improved aerobic fitness, while 93% reported improved flexibility.

The investment represents the latest chapter in Circadian Trust's ongoing mission to create opportunities for healthier, more active communities across South Gloucestershire. As a charitable trust, Circadian continually reinvests into its facilities and services, ensuring they remain relevant, accessible and responsive to local needs.

Jim Rollo, Manager and Head of Health and Wellbeing for Circadian Trust, said:

"As we approach ten years of the Wellbeing Studio, this investment is a celebration of the people who have made it such a success. Over the last decade we have seen countless individuals improve their confidence, maintain their independence and discover that being active can be enjoyable and achievable.

"This reinvestment is about far more than equipment. It's about continuing to provide spaces where everyone feels welcome, supported and valued. We want people to know that our centres are for everybody, regardless of age, ability or experience."

Liz Wright, Sales Manager for Innerva, said:

"The teams across the Active Lifestyle Centres share our commitment to helping people remain active, independent and connected to their communities. Their focus has always been on supporting people, and that's why we are proud to be part of their wellbeing journey."

"This investment reflects a long-term commitment to local communities and to creating welcoming spaces where people can enjoy the physical, mental and social benefits of movement. We're delighted to support Circadian Trust as it continues to expand access to inclusive wellbeing opportunities."

At Yate Active Lifestyle Centre, a dedicated new Wellbeing Studio recently opened in June in response to growing demand for exercise referral and health support programmes, whilst the Wellbeing Studio at Thornbury recently celebrated it’s two-year anniversary.

The importance of these facilities is reflected in the fact that around 20% of Active Lifestyle Centre members come through long-term health referrals. For many residents, the centres provide a vital bridge between healthcare and independent physical activity, helping people stay active, connected and healthier for longer.

As it celebrates ten years of success, the Bradley Stoke Wellbeing Studio continues to demonstrate the value of investing in people and communities, go beyond the gym floor, the impact can be seen in improved independence, stronger social connections and healthier lifestyles for local residents.