Former Great Britain Olympic swimmer Katy Sexton MBE took centre stage to cut the opening ribbon.

The launch event also featured plenty of entertainment on the gym floor. Horizon Leisure’s staff went head-to-head in a friendly gym challenge, alongside interactive gym floor taster classes that gave customers a firsthand look at the upgraded space.

Funded exclusively by the charitable leisure trust, this major upgrade includes brand new cardio equipment on the mid floor, a full-strength upgrade on the ground floor and a refreshed free weights area with new racks and layout. There is also a new 10-metre sprint track on the top floor along with self-powered cardio and functional equipment, and a dedicated glute training zone.

The new equipment from Horizon Leisure’s wellness partner, Pulse Fitness, includes modern Low-Impact Elevation Treadmills, Curved Slat Treadmills, Stepmills and Air Bikes, Pin-selected Strength Machines, Plate-loaded Weights Machines (such as Hack Squats and Hip Thrusts), Olympic Benches and Multiple Half Racks. The gym also has a Functional Rig, Prowler Sleds and Plyo Boxes.

Mike Lyons, CEO, Horizon Leisure said: 'We had a great day celebrating the new gym with our community, staff and special guests. We are proud of the positive impact our investment will have on our customers. Beyond the fantastic new equipment, the new atmospheric lighting, fresh décor and modern flooring make the space feel welcoming and on-trend.

'We scheduled the refurbishment, which took three weeks, during August to minimise disruption to our customers, who were also encouraged to use our alternative site in Havant for a gym workout during the temporary closure. As a charity, our goal is to inspire healthier, happier lives, and that starts with creating spaces people love to be in.'

Cameron James, regional sales manager Southwest at Pulse Fitness, added: 'We are delighted with the new-look gym at Waterlooville Leisure Centre. By combining a broad range of equipment from our cardio, strength and functional training lines, the refreshed facility has been expertly designed and will support a variety of training goals while creating an engaging experience for customers.'