How to claim a free gym pass in County Durham this September

Durham County Council is offering a month-long programme of activities to mark National Fitness Day and help residents explore new ways to move.

As part of the campaign, people can claim a free seven-day pass to use the council’s own leisure centres across County Durham, giving access to pools, gyms, and fitness classes.

Residents can also access a free week-long Move Plus Pass, which can be used for gentle exercise classes, pools and walking sports sessions.

It can also be used to access the council’s Move Hubs, which offer power-assisted exercise equipment.

Free taster sessions in yoga, Pilates, and HIITStep will be available at selected locations, and a fresh round of the Couch to 5k running programme is already underway.

Cllr Karen Allison, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, said: “Exercise in any form, whether that’s a gentle walk or intense cardio, is beneficial to health and wellbeing.

“We want to encourage residents to explore ways to incorporate movement into their daily life, no matter their fitness level.

“As part of this ambition, we are committed to driving positive lifestyle change and increasing opportunities for residents to access physical activity across the county.”

On National Fitness Day, which falls on Wednesday, September 16, leisure centre members can spin the wheel at their local site for the chance to win memberships, guest passes for friends and family, and entries into a grand prize draw.

Two fitness challenges will run throughout September, giving residents the opportunity to win a range of membership prizes by earning MOVE points through the Technogym app.

As part of the campaign, members who achieve 2,000 MOVE points on National Fitness Day will be entered into a prize draw to win a free 12-month membership.

In addition, participants who accumulate 15,000, 30,000 or 50,000 MOVE points during September will be entered into separate prize draws, providing even more opportunities to be rewarded for staying active.

Councillor Allison said the council is “As part of this ambition, we are committed to driving positive lifestyle change and increasing opportunities for residents to access physical activity across the county.”