Fitness First has taken a leap into the youth market with the opening of the first SHOKK gym area in one of its sites.

SHOKK is a new youth fitness concept from Kidco Fitness. Rather then being miniature versions of adult fitness equipment, SHOKK is ergonomically designed and uses functional lifting technology, which is purpose built for children's growing bodies.

The SHOKK gym area at Fitness First's new site in Aintree is being used as a tester, and if the response is good will mark the beginning of a national roll out.

'By opening a SHOKK gym area which is positioned away from the mainstream fitness equipment we're hoping to appeal to under 18 members and invest in the future of Fitness First,' says Andy King, north west regional manager at Fitness First.

All the gym's instructors will undertake a Sprito ratified Youth Strength Training module before working in the SHOKK gym, and Kidco will also provide an education programme for the children that use the gym.