Charitable trust, Horizon Leisure, has launched a customer ‘buddy group’ designed to connect individuals with similar fitness goals and support members working out at its wellbeing centres across the South East.
Horizon Buddies was the brainchild of Horizon member, Ree, 29, who felt less confident working out in the weights area of the gym without her PT and was looking for a workout partner. It has been launched by the Horizon Leisure team via a Facebook group and, in just a few days, almost 200 people have joined the group, with many introducing themselves and finding new fitness partners.
Alexandra Pinhorn, Marketing Manager, Horizon Leisure says: “The Facebook group, which is managed by my team, encourages members at our centres in Havant, Waterlooville and Guilford to introduce themselves, share their fitness goals, and connect with like-minded gym buddies. It’s a supportive, non-judgemental community where members are asked to respect boundaries, be kind and be reliable.
“It’s been amazing to see the community grow so quickly, and we’re excited to see even more connections form! Although this isn’t exclusively a women’s group, it’s striking that 90% of our buddies are women. It clearly demonstrates that leisure operators must do more to make women feel more comfortable about working out in the gym, because everyone deserves the right to exercise safely and with confidence.”
Member, Ree explains: “I enjoy the structure of some group exercise classes and also love working out with a Personal Trainer in the gym, but whenever I train alone I don’t push myself as hard and I’m less confident. For example, when lifting a bench press, I feel safer and more empowered having someone there. A part of me is nervous that if I drop it I might not be able to get it off me.
“Since having a PT session every time I work out isn’t feasible, I wanted to find a way to connect with other gym-goers who might feel the same way. So I contacted the team at Horizon Leisure to see if there was a means to create a network to meet other likeminded people, and Horizon Buddies was formed!”
Pinhorn says: “Having a workout buddy not only boosts motivation but also builds accountability, making it easier to stay consistent. Being a gym member isn’t just about getting healthier, it’s also about being in an environment where you are around other likeminded people, making connections along the way. However, our members’ safety is paramount, so we advise new buddies to meet in public at our leisure centres and report any concerns directly to us.”
With thanks to Big Fish PR
