Published:
11:56 March 21, 2022
Updated:
15:04 March 21, 2022
A Norfolk gym was saved from permanent closure after a deal was sealed that it could open 24 hours.
Fitness 2000 on Southtown Road closed suddenly when its operators Sentinel Leisure Trust delisted after “a substantial period” of difficulties.
A week later, new owners are in command with plans to upgrade equipment and open Great Yarmouth’s first 24-hour gym.
NR (New Revolution) Health and Fitness already operates gyms in Wymondham, Attleborough, Dereham and Watton and plans to bring its model to Yarmouth.
Owner Nathan Gostling and Director Aaron Johnson say they are excited to add to their family of fitness centers and look forward to welcoming many new staff and members.
Johnson, 31, said they had moved quickly to seal the deal and couldn’t be happier.
They hope to reopen on April 1.
On Monday, an open day was being held for the staff with the aim of recovering the majority.
Most of the equipment was owned by the lessor and the equipment leased from Pulse had already been removed.
Some of the cardio equipment and spin bikes looked tired and ready for an upgrade, Johnson added.
“I loved the space from the moment I walked in,” he said.
“Sometimes I think ‘how do I make this work?’ But I know what I would change and change.
“I love the place, it is quite well set, we are very happy with it.
“It’s been an exciting weekend.”
He said the suddenness of the closure had left “a bit of a sour taste” among members and staff with people attending workouts only to find everything closed.
Data protection rules could prevent new owners from contacting the more than 600 members who are offered free April as an incentive to rejoin.
Johnson said he and Gostling met as personal trainer trainees at age 16 and had a proven track record working for national networks and running their own business for the past five years.
He said the company was proud of its community spirit with member events and fundraising campaigns, most recently to help the people of Ukraine.
For more information contact NR Health and Fitness via their Facebook or Instagram pages or email [email protected].
