Chelmsford community gym welcomes impressive upgrade

Chelmsford Sport and Athletics Centre (CSAC) underwent a huge transformation recently with a much-anticipated refurbishment.  

The gym at Melbourne’s community leisure centre now hosts top-of-the range equipment and the centre has a brand-new studio space. The whole site is now open, just in time for new members to take advantage of Chelmsford City Sports’ Festive Fit deal, by signing up for £20 and getting the rest of the year free! 

Councillor Natacha Dudley, Cabinet Member for an Active Chelmsford, says this refurbishment is a key investment in residents’ health. 

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“Of course, having a brand-new gym full of state-of-the-art equipment is exciting, but what I’m most proud of is that every element of the refurb was curated to ensure the gym is suitable for everyone. From the professional athletes who compete on CSAC’s tracks, to the residents of nearby villages and estates who are interested in getting into fitness; everyone will find what they need here.

“The centre’s friendly and knowledgeable team are excited to help members and visitors find their way around the new gym.”

Cllr Natacha Dudley, Cabinet Member for an Active Chelmsford

State-of-the-art equipment accessible to all 

As you enter the new gym, you’re greeted by a spacious functional area, perfect to mobilise pre-workout and stretch post-workout. The main gym area holds cardio machines, from stair climbers to self-propelled treadmills, and a variety of resistance machines. The free weights section includes two half racks, a huge range of dumbbells, discs and bars, and a lifting space.

Additional ground floor studio 

The first floor of the centre previously held a gym and a fitness studio, with a separate free weights gym downstairs alongside the sports hall and another studio.  

Now, the entire first floor has been opened up into a spacious gym with a free weights section incorporated. On the ground floor, the old free weights area has been converted into studio space, with brand new flooring, an LED lighting system, and speakers.

Over 25 new classes have been added to the studio timetable, with extra early morning classes, a wider variety of mind and body classes, and new Les Mills programmes. Gym floor Arena classes are also available, for circuit training that utilises functional equipment. 

CSAC has extended its Forever Active programme, with more classes and activity sessions for older residents. Its Active Health scheme has also expanded, making space for additional referrals. The Mayor of Chelmsford, who officially opened the gym, says she’s pleased to see fitness being promoted to all:

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“Being active is important throughout life, but keeping ourselves active as we get older can bring so many benefits. Maintaining strength and balance is key to independence and having the equipment that I’ve seen here today in our local community is going to make that so much more achievable.

“Hearing how passionate the staff at Chelmsford Sport and Athletics Centre are about the accessibility of the gym is fantastic and I can’t wait to see how many people are impacted by this new space along with the staff’s guidance. What a wonderful addition to Chelmsford City Council’s leisure centre offering – and a great opportunity to get a jump start on those new year’s resolutions!”

Cllr Linda Mascot, Mayor of Chelmsford

Friendly, knowledgeable staff on hand

Members now have a greater range of equipment to explore during their workouts. But don’t let that put you off if you’re new to fitness: The centre’s approachable, expert staff are always on hand to help. CSAC centre manager, Justin Hubbard, says the new gym has had a great reaction so far: 

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“The equipment we have here really is of the highest level. We’re so proud of the new space and seeing customers’ reactions to it is the best part!

“The Keiser strength training machines are definite favourites, as they’re ideal for improving the customer experience. Their unique resistance system makes it safer and easier for anyone to start an exercise regime and can help build members’ confidence and motivation.

“The space has been designed to work for everyone, from those just starting out to experienced athletes, and we’re so proud to be able to welcome residents of Chelmsford and the athletes who choose to train here. I recently showed Daryll Neita [Olympic medal winning British sprinter] around the centre and she described it as a “hidden gem”. Well, we’re ready for everyone to find us now!”

Justin Hubbard, Chelmsford Sport and Athletics Centre Manager

Great value monthly memberships

If you’d like to join your local leisure centre, please don’t hesitate! CSAC’s welcoming centre staff and expert, supportive gym team will ensure you’re well looked after as you start your fitness journey. And if you’re a regular gym goer, we know you’ll love the upgraded facilities!

The centre is easily accessible on foot, by bike, car, or public transport. Just a short journey away from many of Chelmsford’s local estates and villages, including Newland Spring, Broomfield, Writtle, Roxwell and Beaulieu. 

Take advantage of our current ‘Festive Fit’ deal: Join for £20 and get rest of the year free. You can sign up online or head to the centre to join.