New gym classes to get kids fit in Sunderland

The gym chain will offer four free gym classes each week to children aged between three and five.

The new concept aims to encourage physical activity among children and their parents to help tackle the childhood obesity problem.

This new exercise model was developed by Xercise4Kids Co-coordinator, Sarah Philp.

The classes last 45 minutes and take both the children and parents on a story telling journey through four different themes; The Underwater Kingdom, Deserted Lands, Jump Around Jungle and The Exceptional Circus. Each class incorporates different activities that keep the heart rate high and challenge the major muscle groups.

Every eight weeks the theme of the class changes to keep the children and parents engaged.

At the end of each eight-week programme, the children are presented with a certificate.

Sarah said; “I am delighted to be able to finally reveal the concept we have been working on for the last year. Xercise4Kids was inspired by the lack of inter-generational activity available in the UK for both parent and child. It eliminates the childcare barrier and also encourages interaction between parent and child as opposed to the current child movement classes offered.”

Ed Savage, general manager at the Sunderland Wayfarer Road branch, added: “By providing free exercise classes to every child aged three to five we will tackle childhood obesity head on by educating families to the benefits of a healthier, happier lifestyle.”

For more information, visit www.xercise4less.co.uk/xercise4kids/