Gym’s 874-mile trial in bid to buy equipment for disabled members

Fit4Less members are set to run, cycle and row distance from John O’ Groats to Lands End

Fitness fans will embark on a “John O’Groats to Land’s End” challenge – without leaving the comfort of the gym.

Members and staff of Fit4Less Perth hope to run, cycle and row 874 miles, the length of Britain, in five days to raise money for new disability-friendly equipment.

The inclusion for all classes launched by the gym earlier this year offers free exercise classes to people with mental and physical disabilities, the only class of its kind in Perth and Kinross.

It has been so popular that gym manager Tammy Fleuchar wants to add a second class to the weekly timetable and buy more equipment.

She said: “The main aim is to drum up some support and funds for the inclusion group because it keeps growing.

“We are working with Perth and Kinross Disability Support to decide which equipment would be best, but it’s

“I know 874 miles is a big ask, but I know we will definitely manage it. A lot of the inclusion group members’ families and friends are getting involved

also very basic things like some people want to come along, but don’t have transport, so the money could pay for taxis or buses for them.

“One member is in a wheelchair and we’re limited to what we can do for her, so we would like to get a bit more wheelchair-friendly equipment in or even some training for staff in how to support her.”

The challenge will run between Monday and Friday, and anyone can drop in to take part, on any cardio machine they choose.

Sponsorship and donations can also be handed into the gym, where a tally will be kept to record the progress.

Tammy added: “I know 874 miles is a big ask, but I know we will definitely manage it.

“A lot of the inclusion group members’ families and friends are getting involved and we have great members and staff at the gym who won’t stop until we finish it.

“The group members will be doing their bit at the next class and everyone is welcome to come in and help us get to the target.”

Earlier this year, members and staff of the Canal Street gym walked up and down Ben Nevis three times in 24 hours, raising more than £500 for the Perth branch of mental-health charity Andy’s Man Club.

The free inclusion group is held every Wednesday in the gym’s studio, between 11.30am and 12.15pm.

Picture: Steve MacDougall. Staff members Chris Smith, left, and Kyle McLeish getting ready for the challenge at Fit4Less Perth.