As people start new fitness regimes for the new year, the National Sports Centre (NSC) is issuing a reminder about the facilities and programmes it offers.

Last January, many of the facilities at the NSC in Groves Road, Douglas, were out of action following disastrous flooding in December.

Graham Cregeen MHK, Minister for Education and Children, said: ‘The NSC is back up and running and the opportunity was taken to bring facilities up to the most modern standards.

‘I’d encourage those who are kick-starting a new fitness regime who haven’t visited the NSC for a while to take a look round and see what we offer.’

In addition to the Fitness Zone (gym), sports halls, squash courts, bowls hall, outdoor track and field, pools, steam room, Jacuzzi and a timetable of classes, the NSC runs programmes encouraging people of all ages and abilities to regain and maintain fitness. These restart in January after a Christmas break.

Step into Sport, for pupils in Reception year and years 1, 2 and 3 at primary school, recommences on Tuesday 3rd January. There are hour-long after-school sessions from Tuesday to Friday in rugby, multi-sports, athletics and badminton and participation is just ?1.

Walk & Talk, at locations throughout the Island, also restarts on Tuesday 3rd January. Suitable for all ages and abilities, it’s a sociable and enjoyable way to exercise, with milestones rewarded with prizes. Taking part is ?1.50 a session including refreshments.

The Swing of Things restarts on Monday 9th January. Sessions introduce adults to sports they may not have tried, including table tennis, racquet ball, squash, badminton and short tennis. The charge, ?3.15 per session, includes tea or coffee in the NSC cafe.

For information about the facilities, programmes, memberships and classes at the NSC, visit www.gov.im/categories/leisure-and-entertainment/national-sports-centre/ or ring 01624 688588.