Gender power shift
The upgrade and change to the layout of the gym has been welcomed by member Clare Bulloch.
The 50-year-old from Wishaw uses the gym four nights a week.
“I started back at the gym about a year-and-a-half ago”, Clare revealed.
“I use the strength and conditioning area two nights a week and also do circuit training.
“Every week I see more women using it. A lot of them go often.
“The new layout should be a lot better as some women hesitate to go into the segregated area.
“I tend not to use the small room as much as the strength and conditioning equipment in the main gym.
“Bringing it all in to the main gym area will be beneficial to more women.
Clare, who works as a credit controller in Motherwell, used to go with a friend to boxing exercise classes at Ravenscraig gym, but when they moved away her attendance faltered.
“Wishaw suits me better. Sometimes it’s just the thought of going, it’s taking that first step, but once you’re in it’s so much fun”, she admitted.
“Another friend said to me that strength and conditioning was becoming a big thing with women and that I should try it.
“The minute I went back I thoroughly enjoyed it.”
She also admits she is content to leave her husband at home as she heads for the gym.
Clare continued: “For me, if there’s football on the TV then I’m glad to get out the house.
“Things are changing and more and more women are going to the gym.
“The circuit training I go to is in the main gym and it’s mixed, men and women and all ages.
“People aged 50 don’t look out of place. It’s great. You only do what your body will allow you to do.
“You’re encouraged but nobody makes you do more than you can.”