David Lloyd Clubs has officially opened its newest health and leisure facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire, following a £12 million investment. The new club, located at the Catalyst Bicester business park, has created 80 new jobs in the local community and offers a wide range of premium health, wellness, and family-oriented amenities.
The opening marks the 103rd UK club for the David Lloyd group and is designed to cater to the growing demand for comprehensive wellness services in the region. The facility spans a significant area, incorporating state-of-the-art fitness equipment, swimming pools, and an expansive spa retreat.
Key Takeaways
- David Lloyd Clubs has launched a new £12 million facility in Bicester, Oxfordshire.
- The project has generated 80 new full-time and part-time employment opportunities.
- Key features include a 100-station gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and a luxury spa.
- The club aims to provide a family-friendly environment with dedicated kids' clubs and activities.
A Major Investment in Local Wellness
The development of the Bicester club represents a significant financial commitment by David Lloyd Clubs, reflecting the company's confidence in the local economy. The £12 million investment has funded the construction and outfitting of a modern facility designed to meet high standards of quality and service.
According to the company, the creation of 80 new jobs covers a variety of roles, including fitness coaching, spa therapy, hospitality, and club management. This influx of employment is expected to provide a notable boost to the Bicester area.
The new club is strategically located at Catalyst Bicester, a new science and technology park. This placement aims to serve both the local residential community and professionals working within the business park, offering convenient access to premium leisure facilities.
State-of-the-Art Fitness Facilities
At the core of the new club is a spacious 100-station gymnasium. The gym is equipped with the latest fitness technology, including a diverse range of cardio and strength-training machines. Members have access to advanced equipment such as Woodway treadmills, Technogym resistance machines, and a large free-weights area.
Beyond the main gym floor, the club features several specialized fitness zones. These include a dedicated area for functional training, equipped with rigs, kettlebells, and plyometric boxes. This space is designed to support high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and other dynamic workout styles.
What is Functional Training?
Functional training involves exercises that mimic everyday movements, focusing on building strength, coordination, and balance for real-world activities. It often utilizes equipment like resistance bands, kettlebells, and bodyweight exercises to engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously.
The club also offers three dedicated group exercise studios: one for high-impact workouts, a Mind & Body studio for yoga and Pilates, and a cycle hub for indoor cycling classes. The schedule includes over 100 weekly classes, catering to all fitness levels and interests.
Comprehensive Aquatic and Spa Amenities
A central feature of the David Lloyd Bicester club is its extensive aquatic offering. The facility includes a 25-meter indoor swimming pool and a 20-meter heated outdoor pool. The outdoor pool area is complemented by a sun terrace, allowing members to relax and socialize in warmer weather.
The club's spa, named the 'Spa Retreat,' is designed as a luxury wellness destination. It provides a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, separate from the main fitness areas.
"Our goal with the Bicester club was to create a complete wellness destination for the entire family," stated Jack Phillips, the General Manager. "The Spa Retreat is a key part of that vision, offering a tranquil space where members can truly unwind and focus on their well-being."
The spa facilities include:
- A hydrotherapy pool
- Himalayan salt sauna
- Eucalyptus steam room
- An ice cave for cryotherapy benefits
- Heated relaxation beds
These amenities are designed to provide a premium spa experience, which is included as part of the club's membership packages.
Did You Know?
The David Lloyd Clubs group was founded in 1982 by former professional tennis player David Lloyd. The first club opened in Heston, West London, with a strong focus on racquet sports. Today, the group operates 132 clubs across the UK and Europe.
A Focus on Family and Community
David Lloyd Clubs has built its brand on providing a family-friendly environment, and the Bicester location continues this tradition. The club includes dedicated spaces and programs for children, aiming to make it an attractive destination for families.
The 'DL Kids' club offers a range of activities for children aged 3 months to 16 years. These activities are scheduled to align with adult group exercise classes, allowing parents to work out while their children are supervised. Facilities for younger members include an indoor soft-play area and a dedicated family lounge.
The club also features a Clubroom, a large social space with an indoor and outdoor patio. This area serves as a central hub for members to eat, work, and socialize. The menu offers a range of healthy meals, snacks, and drinks, catering to different dietary needs.
Racquet Sports and Outdoor Activities
Staying true to its heritage, the new club provides excellent facilities for racquet sports. It features several championship-standard tennis courts, available for booking by members. The club also offers professional coaching programs for both adults and children, catering to all skill levels from beginner to advanced.
In addition to tennis, the club has courts for squash and badminton, further expanding the options for members. The integration of high-quality racquet facilities is a core component of the David Lloyd experience, setting it apart from many other health clubs.
The outdoor space is not limited to the swimming pool and tennis courts. The club's design incorporates landscaped grounds, providing a pleasant environment for members to enjoy. The outdoor patio area connected to the Clubroom is designed for al fresco dining and social events during the summer months.