Gym, classes and fitness
We're dedicated to helping our members stay active in whatever way suits them. That's why we've developed a comprehensive plan to ensure we can provide you with the support you need.
We offer a range of memberships to suit you, depending on your needs, from Swim Only deals to our all-encompassing Premium Plus membership.
Alternatively, we also welcome day visitors - find out how to create your free Places membership and claim your day pass.
Our current pay as you go rates are as follows:
Adult: £9.50
Older adults: £6.00
Adults (with disabilities): £4.40
Junior: £6.00
Gym support
To familiarise you with the gym and to get to know your goals we'd like to offer you a short group introduction to the gym. This can be booked with a member of the team when you join or at a later date via our website.
One-to-one support sessions can be booked with a member of the gym team. The sessions last 45 minutes and are chargeable.
You are also welcome to book one free 15 minute programme review a month, just speak to a member of our team.
Our gyms are not always manned, but rest assured support is never far away. Our equipment is labelled with QR codes, which when scanned, provide you a video tutorial. Also look out for our latest workout boards in the gym, with a scannable code showcasing the latest workout to try.
The place for all your digital fitness tracking and programming support is our Places Tracker app. Click the link below to find out more.
Gym etiquette
We want everyone's time in our gym to be as comfortable as possible, so we ask all visitors to remember the below when using the facilities.
- Please help us keep the gym clean by wiping down equipment after use
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the activity you're doing
- Lifting barefoot or in socks is permitted on lifting platforms only
- Make use of our lockers for bags
- Our gym's aren't always manned, so if you require assistance or support when there are no team members on the gym floor, please visit our friendly reception team
- In case of emergency, push the assistance alarm
- During busy times, please be mindful of the length of time you spend on each piece of equipment to allow other gym users to complete their workout
Junior Gym etiquette
- A gym induction must be completed before using the gym
- 1 adult (18 years+) can attend with up to four Junior members and is responsible for the Junior member's conduct
- You must follow all exercise programme advice given by our Fitness team
By following the guidance above, we hope all visitors can enjoy their visits to the gym.
Take a virtual tour
Want to take a look at our gym and the rest of the centre before your visit? Our virtual tour allows you to explore everything we have to offer.
Group workout classes
We host a range of classes, across all intensities so whatever you’re in the mood for, come along and dance, lift, run & relax with us.
Classes at Waltham Abbey Leisure Centre
We operate a range of fitness classes at our centre, both in and out of the pool. Take a look at some of the types of activities we've got for you:
Group cycling
Ride like the wind with our group cycling classes. You’ll feel like you’ve had a workout with one of these sessions.
Studio classes
Offering a range of intensities from gentle and relaxing to a more intensive workout, you’ll be able to find a class that suits you.
Les Mills classes
Les Mills classes are enjoyed all over the world including BODYBALANCE, a yoga, tai chi, Pilates workout that builds flexibility and strength, and BODYPUMP, a barbell class that strengthens your entire body.
Virtual cycling classes
Workout in your own time, with regular classes throughout the day our virtual Les Mills RPM cycling offers flexibility for busy lives
Take a look at our class timetable to find the one for you.
Personal training
Are you doing the same workout each time you come to gym? Are you lacking motivation? Are you not achieving your goals?
If you relate to any of the above, personal training is for you! The clue is the title – Personal training is all about you! With a range of packages & prices available, what are you waiting for?
Meet your PTs
We've got a great team of personal trainers at Waltham Abbey Leisure Centre. Meet the team...
Sian Sellen
I love helping people achieve their fitness goals no matter what they might be. I have a masters in sports rehabilitation and specialise in injury, pre and post op, as well as health conditions.
Give me a call today to let me help you be the best version of yourself
Marek Tonder
Are you ready for a transformation? I'm here to help you achieve the best version of yourself!
I am a graduate of Roehampton University in Sport and Exercise Science, and I specialise in strength and conditioning, building muscle and losing fat. With my support I will help you shape your body, raise your self-confidence and energy level. Together, we will break down all barriers and overcome challenges!
Contact me now, and let's start this amazing journey towards a better version of yourself!
Chelsea Sampson
I specialise in fat loss and building a lean, toned body and trust me I have first hand experience in every stage of the process! I will provide you with all the knowledge and encouragement to live an active, healthy lifestyle in a fun, easy and sustainable way
Ask a member of the team at Waltham Abbey Leisure Centre for more details or call us on 01992 716733.
Exercise referral scheme
Exercise Referral is a 12-week programme designed to improve health and wellbeing by encouraging participants to move more within a safe and comfortable environment. The scheme aims to help those who suffer from, or are at risk of, developing chronic medical conditions and provides support to people whose health could benefit from a more active lifestyle.
Exercise referral scheme
How can physical activity help me?
Physical activity is an essential aspect of good health, managing conditions and preventing illness. By increasing your level of physical activity, you can support your body in:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Increasing bone density
- Improving mobility, cholesterol levels, lung function and mood
- Lowering blood pressure, stress, and anxiety levels
What can I expect from the scheme?
Upon signing up to the scheme, you will meet our friendly team of trained staff at your chosen Leisure Centre within the Epping District. Together, you will agree a personal plan which considers your medical conditions, preferences, interests, and lifestyles.
During the 12-week programme, you will be provided with ongoing support from the team to achieve the goals set during your first consultation session.
What’s the process?
Your first appointment can take 30 minutes at either Places Leisure Epping, Loughton, Ongar, Waltham Abbey Leisure Centre. You will meet with a member of the fitness team to go through a pre-exercise questionnaire and discuss the different activities available.
The team will work with you to set realistic goals and work through an exercise plan. If the gym is something you would like to try, we’ll set you up with a personalised programme and taking into account your medical conditions and reason for referral.
Throughout the programme you will have access to ongoing support and receive follow-ups/reviews at e.g., six and 12 weeks.
Am I eligible?
Those who are eligible include people who are currently inactive and suffer with one or more of the following medical conditions:
- Asthma
- Obesity (BMI over 30)
- Diabetes
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Simple mechanical (non-specific) back pain
- Total joint replacement
- Depression
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Hypertension
- COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
- Cancer rehabilitation
- Cardiac rehabilitation
How much does it cost?
The scheme is at a very competitive discounted rate. For more information, please contact us on 01992 716733 or email us at enquiries@walthamabbeyleisurecentre.org
How do I sign up?
If you meet the requirements, you can either be referred via your GP, nominated help professional, or by emailing us if you'd like more information
Junior fitness
We run the following supervised sessions for children aged 11-15 years to attend:
- Monday - Friday 3.30pm - 4.30pm and 4.45pm - 5.45pm
- Saturday and Sunday 11.00am - 12.00pm
All junior gym users must complete a group introduction before using the gym independently. These sessions last 30 minutes and can be booked with a member of our team when joining.
Once a junior member has completed their introduction and received programme advice they can attend outside the above supervised sessions with a parent/guardian or appropriate adult (18+) on a ratio of a maximum four juniors per adult.