Chris Lane returns to the fitness sector – rebrands former Virgin Active site

Entrepreneur Chris Lane has come out of retirement, buying and rebranding a former Virgin Active site in Angmering, West Sussex as a Lanes Health Club.

Lane, who bought the club in June along with three other private investors, told Health Club Management he's developing a new concept which he may roll out.

After pumping £400,000 (US$528,900, €454,300) into refurbishing the site, the club now features new fitness equipment, a lounge with log burner, revamped exercise studios and a re-engineered gym.

In addition, it has a 25-metre pool, high-intensity studio and a holistic studio offering Pilates, yoga and meditation. A wet suite includes a spa pool, steam and sauna rooms. It also has a full working kitchen for the café.

The club offers walking groups, cycling clubs, drop-in meditation and health-related courses, physiotherapy and rehabilitation.

Lane previously built the Chris Lane Tennis and Health Club, which he sold in 2002 to Whitbread – then owner of the David Lloyd Leisure clubs.

“We’re not just here to provide equipment and a space to exercise”, said Lane. “Lanes is a ‘proper’ club with a buzzing social programme and a range of educational activities, which are important for creating community and keeping our brains and bodies active. We have introduced new wellness classes reflecting the latest research and trends, including ‘Yogic Sleep’ and meditation.

"Our aim is to make our local residents fall in love with exercise and make the club a way of life.”