Over 150 new members have joined Barrhead Action Zone gym since it reopened for business on Monday 25 January after a major £177,000 refurbishment.

The upgrade was part of East Renfrewshire Council's capital replacement programme which introduces new equipment to the Action Zone gyms every five years.

The old equipment has been redistributed to schools throughout East Renfrewshire.

Leisure services manager John Watson said: "The Barrhead Action Zone gym is now fully equipped with an impressive range of state of the art equipment which includes the latest technology for using individual iPods. There are also plasma screens throughout the gym area to keep users entertained and informed.


"Some machine are fitted with personal TV screens with full freeview and there are virtual trainers available to ensure the users get the most out of their workout."

The gym has also been given a facelift with attractive new signage including a new welcome sign at reception, window vinyls, posters, rollup banners and information notices. These were designed by the council’s in-house graphic design team.

The entire gym and free weights area as well as the changing rooms and Action Zone reception were also completely re-floored with high quality vinyl.

Sports convener Councillor Mary Montague, who visited the new gym recently, said: "I was most impressed with the facilities on offer at the refurbished gym. It was also encouraging to see so many people of differing levels of fitness and of all ages using the new state of the art equipment.

"The staff are to be commended as they have had their hands full showing members how to use the new equipment effectively and safely."

(GK/BMcC)