A new social fitness project in the West End of Glasgow opens its doors to the public this weekend.
Movement Park aims to enhance the lives of children and adults in the Whiteinch area of the city, educating people on the importance of sport and fitness-based movement.
The charity-based project will unveil its innovative new multi-activity facility on South Street at a demonstration weekend and festival.
Local people and visitors will be given a free taster of what’s on offer at the new urban-feel centre on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12.
On show will be a range of movement classes as well as judo, dancing, yoga, circus skills and parkour – a form of gymnastics that uses buildings and public spaces as obstacles.
Recently acknowledged as an official UK sport, Movement Park will feature a dedicated outdoor Parkour training area, allowing visitors to test out their skills using the specifically designed obstacle training course.
In addition, the sporting facility will also feature an indoor sprung flooring system for those who wish to participate in the Judo classes within the centre.
The unique South Street centre was created by a small group of enthusiastic judo players who were inspired by Glasgow’s Commonwealth Games in 2014.
Stephen Somerville, convenor and co-founder of Movement Park, said: "Our ethos is very much about the wellbeing of the local community, employability, social cohesion, education and mindful movement – a place where people can come, participate and develop their own goals.
“There really is something for everyone at Movement Park regardless of any ability or circumstance. We look forward to lifting the wraps on our unique new facility and welcoming a wave of visitors from the community and wider Glasgow.”
Acknowledging the social and health problems found in the local area, the Movement Park founders hope to help residents of all ages, develop the fundamental movement skills required for sporting activities.
The former warehouse on Glasgow’s Clydeway, has been styled by renowned Glasgow graffiti artist, Rogue One.
The customised interior has created an impressive urban-feel centre, appealing to a range of youngsters and adults alike looking for an engaging way to explore their sporting abilities in a positive and supportive environment.
Movement Park secured more than £70,000 from grant funding to create and develop the innovative new facility which will be a welcome addition to the local area.
Yvonne Brennan, Marketing and Communication Director for Movement Park, said: “Improving physical literacy will be at the heart of everything we do at Movement Park and our well-established team all have backgrounds in athletics, coaching and development, making it the perfect mix for visitors to the centre who want to get active."
* Movement Park will host their free open weekend at the new South Street Centre in Whiteinch on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 March from 10am – 4pm. For further details of classes and pricing, please visit the Movement Park website www.movementpark.org.uk. Movement Park is located at 813 South Street, Glasgow, G14 0BX. Pre-launch memberships are available.
