24 July 2009

New fitness guru for Queenstown’s community health and fitness centre

Queenstown’s first community-owned health and fitness centre is on track to open at Labour Weekend and is to be run by a talented and motivated health and fitness professional.  The fitness centre will complete the community’s vision for a fully integrated health and fitness facility incorporating both the pool and the purpose-built “dry” area.

Richie Heap, a well-known Queenstown resident, joined the Lakes Leisure team on Monday (20 July).  He is responsible for opening and managing the new Alpine Health and Fitness Centre, located within the Alpine Aqualand complex at the Queenstown Events Centre in Frankton.

Originally from Palmerston North, 33 year old Richie has lived in Queenstown on and off for the past 11 yrs.  He holds a Diploma in Sports Science and Physiology and has a wealth of health and fitness experience, having worked in gyms locally, round New Zealand and overseas.  .

Richie is excited about his new position and sees the health and fitness centre as a valuable asset to the community.

“Combined with Alpine Aqualand, this centre will provide a fantastic integrated health, fitness and leisure facility designed to be accessible and inclusive,” he says.

“It’s all about encouraging people to get out and get active.  We have a variety of leisure and sporting activities under one roof so it’s easy for people to find something they can build it into their own health and fitness routine.   For example, if you’re coming in to play sport, you might decide to tack on a workout or go for a swim or try indoor rockclimbing while you’re there. It’s also conveniently located in Frankton with plenty of free carparking right outside.” 

Richie is currently putting the Centre’s procedures together, ordering equipment and setting membership prices.

“Everyone wants to know the membership pricing policy – I can say we’re nearly there and will be releasing them just as soon as possible.  They will certainly be competitive.”

He’s keen to keep people up to date with what’s happening at the centre and will blog updates on www.lakes leisure.co.nz every two weeks leading up to the launch date.

Lakes Leisure CEO Fiona McKissock believes Richie is just the person to drive the centre.

“I’ve seen him in action at Boot Camp and he definitely gets results!” she says.  “This is an exciting time for us – the new health and fitness centre is a big step toward becoming the Wakatipu’s hub for fitness and fun.”

The new Alpine Health and Fitness Centre will feature a range of cardio and weight training equipment and provide a variety of fitness programmes for a wide range of users.  The facilities will also be a drawcard in attracting top level national and international athletes and sports teams to the district. 

Richie says the centre’s group fitness programmes will enhance and complement existing programmes offered by various community groups.  Part of his role will be to work with community groups to continually build and maintain Lakes Leisure services and ensure community needs are met.

ENDS

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