EXERCISE MAKES YOU SMILE. Fact.

We sent our #TotalGuidetoBath blogger @SarahfromBath to @betterextremebath (at the previously known Bath Sports Centre) to try out their various offerings.

Shiny, new & really good value with varying memberships I used the GYM, VIRTUAL STUDIO, EXERCISE STUDIO (taught class) and the SWIMMING POOL & Sauna on 3 separate visits during January.

In training for the Bath Half, I opted for a cardio workout in the gym and enjoyed a slow 5k on one of many running machines. What struck me was how diverse the gym users were. (I was there on a Monday at 10 am). Diversity across ages, abilities, and interests which made it feel very inclusive especially for those more self-conscious about working out in public. It had lots of mat space, different machine types and was spotless and bright. The staff on duty were smiley and helpful (thank you Conor) and there were plenty of screens and TVs to distract you if that works for you (it works for me!).

My daughters both already have junior memberships which are EXCELLENT value and for which I highly rate (for both parent and child).

On my second visit I used the whizzy sounding VIRTUAL STUDIO.

Outside the studio is a console and it’s easy as this to use: 1. Check the timetable. 2. Pick class type (yoga, hitt, spin, aerobics, Zumba etc etc, there are over 800 classes to choose from!) 3. Pick your class length. 4. Pick class intensity. 5. And the now the hard bit, WORK OUT!

Classes are shown on a big screen, like you might do a dvd workout at home or online. I showed up on a Monday at 9.15 and opted for a short yoga stretch out. The staff member kindly helped me, but it looked pretty straight-forward and showed plenty of flexibility. I also had the studio entirely to myself which was perfect for my Monday morning sluggish state although I guess it won’t always be empty.

There are also scheduled classes using this system and listed on the timetable. Ideal for those who don’t need their hand holding or who want to squeeze in an extra type of workout before or after the gym or swim. I liked it!

On my third visit I planned to pack in a swim, quick sauna and then I had picked a Zumba class from their extensive taught class timetable.

The main changing rooms have been reconfigured to accommodate more families swimming together so be prepared for a mixed setting, but there are secure changing cubicles and secure lockers, so it worked for me. There were swimming lessons taking place in the new small (learner) pool and on the far side of the main pool. I was level 2 swimming teacher (ASA) for nearly 10 years and can honestly say the lessons looked great! Well taught, fun and well-staffed.

Being post-surgery I took to the pool for a gently 30 lengths in the slow lane, having not swam for nearly 18 months. I totally loved the pain free and gentle workout the water gave me (and since coming home from that swim I have ordered new goggles with a view to swimming regularly again).

I then engineered enough time to take 15 minutes in the sauna and was glad that I had. Its bijoux but big enough for 6 adults to enjoy the therapy of heat.

And then onwards to my first Zumba class in several years. Taught by the super bubbly Amy, which involved great music choices, excellent dance moves (ranging from easy to follow, to concentrate a bit harder!). It was obviously really popular, when the chaps too for guys who like to dance too which I loved. It was 45 mins long, requires booking (members get priority) and excellent fun.

@better_uk at Bath offer multiple memberships from stay & play to comprehensive member packages offering flexibility for lifestyles and budgets. It’s new, super clean and the staff are ace.

Thanks to them for their hospitality, professionalism and create thinking around their offering. All of my three visits gave me much to smile about. Thank you.

By @SarahfromBath