Steve Black, coach of the Newcastle Falcons, officially opened the new Activ8 junior gym at Gateshead Leisure Centre last week.

Located on the first floor of the council-run leisure centre, the facility offers a range of cardiovascular and resistance machines designed specifically for children aged seven to 14 years old.

Each session in the gym will comprise a circuit training class led by an instructor.

“The emphasis behind the new Activ8 gym is on making exercise fun,” said Councillor John McElroy, cabinet member for culture at Gateshead Council.

“A change from the usual exercise options open to young people, the gym doesn’t focus on one particular sport, so youngsters don’t have to worry about knowing any rules or being part of a competitive team.”

Black added: “It’s important that youngsters are encouraged to take up sport from an early age so it becomes a part of their lives.”