Applemore Health & Leisure

816 Gym, which will be run by New Forest District Council, will allow children to get in shape on a range of exercise equipment that is traditionally found in adult fitness suites.

The mini treadmills, steppers and bikes have all been designed to be fun, safe and easy to use by young people aged 8-16.  Other equipment to tempt children to take up more exercise will include free weights, stability balls and punch bags.

Around 15 per cent of children in the UK are overweight or obese - conditions which can create a higher risk of developing serious health problems later in life.

The new gym, which opens on December 19, will offer a range of personal programmes and fun courses to encourage local children to take up regular exercise.  A programme of classes and courses is being organised later this year as well as dedicated sessions for clubs, schools and children with disabilities.

Instructors are all qualified to work with young people, who will be able to access the gym during evenings, weekends and school holidays.

Cllr Barry Rickman, portfolio holder for leisure at NFDC, said: "Everything that can be found in a regular adult gym will be available in this fabulous new facility. "We are determined to provide the best possible health and fitness facilities for people of all ages and we hope to attract a new generation of gym-goers in the New Forest."

Cllr Maureen Holding, portfolio holder for health and social inclusion, said: "We aim to ensure the New Forest continues to produce healthy children and adults, together with even more sporting champions. It's important we encourage people to take up regular exercise, which can help reduce the risk of developing serious health problems such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease."