IT’S time to get fit for free – thanks to the launch of the UK’s first ever National Fitness Week. Everyone in the region can benefit from special health checks in February thanks to one of the world’s largest health clubs, Fitness First.

Throughout the week Fitness First clubs at Bournemouth and Poole are offering five point health checks – testing blood pressure, resting heart rate, grip strength, peak flow and flexibility – for free.

“Our aim is to encourage more people to take a look at their lifestyle and try to make positive changes,” said John Gamble, managing director of Fitness First based at Poole.

“This is not only about getting people to join a gym. We want to encourage people to try different ways of exercising and find one to suit each person and their lifestyle.

“It has been proven that regular exercise is one of the key ways to improve health and wellbeing – helping to reduce the numbers of lifestyle diseases such as heart disease, asthma, osteoporosis and cancer.

“We want to help people understand more about their own fitness – and break down those perceived barriers which stop many people from exercising. The five point check is a great way to identify both the good and the bad in people’s health.

“It provides a good starting point – a place to begin encouraging everyone to get active and incorporate exercise in to their everyday lives for a healthier, fitter nation,” he added.

A dedicated website will be the information hub for the week. There will be fitness tips and nutrition advice from expert personal trainers – as well as suggestions on how to get started with exercise.

National Fitness Week also aims to motivate existing Fitness First members by hosting a number of special activities at clubs during the week.

For more information visit national-fitness.com