Tag: Edinburgh Leisure

Edinburgh Student’s Sweet Fundraising Push for London Marathon Challenge

Edinburgh University student and lifeguard Alexandra Ogilvie is heating up her marathon fundraising efforts with a community bake sale at Leith Victoria Swim Centre on February 22nd, 2025.

The event marks a key milestone in her journey to raise £2,000 for Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programme ahead of her London Marathon debut.

Alexandra, who balances her mathematics studies with lifeguarding duties, will be showcasing her baking talents with an array of homemade treats, including her signature cheesecakes and cupcakes. Local businesses have also stepped up to support the cause, contributing to what promises to be an impressive spread of baked goods.

“This will be my very first marathon, and I couldn’t be more excited to take on one of the world’s most iconic running events,” says Alexandra, who won Edinburgh Leisure’s coveted 2025 TCS London Marathon slot.

“Running a marathon has always been a dream of mine to accomplish before turning 20, and now I have the incredible honour of representing Edinburgh Leisure on this global stage.”

The funds raised will support Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programme, which helps over 12,500 people affected by health conditions, disabilities, inequalities, and poverty access physical activity and sport each year. As both a student and lifeguard, Alexandra has witnessed firsthand the programme’s impact on the community.

“Each year, Edinburgh Leisure relies on fundraising to support its work,” Alexandra explains.

“With rising costs and increasing demand, your support has never been more important. Every penny raised will go towards helping the most vulnerable in our community live healthier and happier lives.”

The bake sale will take place during regular operating hours at Leith Victoria Swim Centre, offering visitors the perfect opportunity to indulge in some sweet treats and perhaps work them off with a swim or workout afterward.

To support Alexandra’s marathon journey and donate to her fundraising total, visit: Fundraising Link

Find out more about Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programme – www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/active-communities.

Event Details:

Date: February 22nd, 2025

Location: Leith Victoria Swim Centre

Time: From 10am

Teeing up history at Silverknowes

Edinburgh Leisure scores Heritage Grant

Edinburgh Leisure has secured a £500 grant from the Sporting Heritage Grants Programme, made possible by the players of the National Lottery and Heritage Fund to celebrate the city’s remarkable golfing legacy. 

Working alongside their golf team, this exciting project will shine a spotlight on the rich history of Edinburgh’s six golf courses, tracing the sport’s roots from its 15th-century origins at Leith Links through to the prestigious Dispatch Trophy, which celebrates the 125th anniversary of being played. 

Silverknowes Golf Course will host an exhibition bringing together a fascinating collection of golfing treasures.

Visitors can expect to discover historical artifacts from local clubs, pore over archival photographs and documents, and dive into the personal stories of club members that have shaped the golfing community over the generations.

Rohan Craig, Golf Supervisor at Edinburgh Leisure said: “Our golf heritage exhibition will be looking to transcend traditional sporting narratives by uncovering overlooked community stories and creating inclusive pathways to engagement. By positioning golf as more than a sport – but a social and cultural touchstone – we’re hoping to attract non-traditional audiences.

“We’ll be reaching out to the various clubs that use our courses, in the hope that they can contribute physical memorabilia and archival materials, historical object and photographs and encourage anyone with interesting memorabilia to get in touch.”

This initiative, part of Sporting Heritage’s UK-wide programme celebrating local sporting history, promises to be a hole-in-one for golf enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The exhibition will complement Edinburgh Leisure’s Edinburgh 900 exhibition, coming soon, which will be displayed at the Braids Golf Course for the 125th year of the Dispatch Trophy in May 2025.

Keep up with the project’s progress by following @sportinghistory.

Jumpstart Your Child’s Fitness Journey

Edinburgh Leisure’s Taster Week for Under 5s

Encourage your pre-school child to get active from an early age by signing up for Play & Try coached activities. As the largest provider of sport and leisure facilities across the city, Edinburgh Leisure is well-placed to encourage your child to reach their full potential, help them build confidence, learn skills, and meet friends.

Edinburgh Leisure is offering a taster week from 17th February – 21st February where new and existing customers can come and try coached activities for under 5s for £3.00 per session.

Tailored for little ones, from babies to pre-schoolers, these fun and engaging sessions are all about having a blast while exploring the first steps into various sports.

Classes include Gym and Jump, Gym Nippers, Swim Baby, Swim Nippers, Swim Toddler, Jump & Dive Skills, Jump Into Sport, Football Mini Kickers and Kick Starters.

Sessions will be offered at Ainslie Park, Craiglockhart Tennis Centre, Drumbrae Leisure Centre, Gracemount Leisure Centre, Kirkliston Leisure Centre, Leith Victoria Swim Centre, Portobello Swim Centre, the Royal Commonwealth Pool, Tumbles at Portobello, and Warrender Swim Centre and are suitable for babies and toddlers.

For those that loved the taster sessions, parents can sign up their child/children for a coaching course at the venue on the same day, with the February fee waived.*

Wherever you’re at on the map or in life, Edinburgh Leisure is here to help the people of Edinburgh enjoy a healthier, happier, and more active life. And it’s never too early to start.

Book your spot today for just £3.00 per session:

www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/under5s-sports-tasters

Make a Splash: Edinburgh’s diving programme expanded

From Olympic aspirations to first-time divers, Edinburgh Leisure is expanding its prestigious diving programme at the Royal Commonwealth Pool. With 120 new spaces available from February 22nd, this marks an exciting return to pre-pandemic capacity and beyond.

The ‘Commie Pool’ stands as the east of Scotland’s crown jewel for diving excellence, featuring world-class facilities that include multiple springboards, platforms reaching up to 10m, and a state-of-the-art dry land training area.

The comprehensive facility offers everything from trampolines and tumble racks to specialised diving boards with crash mats – all designed to build confidence and perfect technique safely.

“Our expanded programme opens doors for everyone, from age 3 to Masters level,” says Vicki Tomlinson, dive co-ordinator and GB judge at Paris 2024. “Whether you’re seeking a new challenge or dreaming of following in the footsteps of British diving stars like Jack Laugher and Grace Reid or Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix, our world-class coaching team is here to guide you.”

The expansion includes:

  • 70 additional junior spaces across all skill levels
  • 50 new weekday spaces in Dive Skills 1
  • Enhanced pre-school programme with convenient Wednesday and Friday sessions
  • Expanded Masters’ class availability

Leading the programme’s evolution is Adam Smallwood, the newly appointed Performance Lead Coach, whose impressive track record includes coaching British diving elite. This appointment strengthens the valuable partnership between The University of Edinburgh, Aquatics GB, Scottish Swimming and Edinburgh Leisure, positioning Edinburgh as a powerhouse for developing future diving talents.

The Royal Commonwealth Pool’s legacy includes hosting prestigious events such as the 2014 Commonwealth Games and 2018 European Championships. And, this same Olympic-standard facility is accessible to the local community, with flexible public diving sessions available without pre-booking.

Experience the thrill of diving in a facility that has launched countless careers and created countless memories. Whether you’re 5 or 50, the expanded programme has a place for you.

Ready to take the plunge?

Visit https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/coaching-courses/diving to secure your spot in Edinburgh’s premier diving programme.

Lord Provost Celebrates Gracemount’s National Award-Winning Success

Edinburgh’s Gracemount Leisure Centre, recently named Scotland’s Centre of the Year at the prestigious ukactive awards, welcomed the Rt Hon Lord Provost and Lord Lieutenant of the City of Edinburgh, Robert Aldridge last week to recognise their outstanding achievement in community fitness and wellbeing.

The Edinburgh Leisure centre which has seen a remarkable 14% increase in visits between 2022 and 2023, received the distinguished visitor for a comprehensive tour led by Managers Craig Cassidy and Jen Murray. The visit highlighted the facility’s exceptional contribution to community health and inclusion.

“We’re so much more than just a gym or a swimming pool – it’s a friendly and bustling community hub at the heart of the local area,” said Craig Cassidy, Manager at Gracemount Leisure Centre.

“With staff who go out of their way to make customers feel at home, it’s somewhere people feel inspired and empowered to live happy, healthy and active lives.”

The centre’s recent success is attributed to several key initiatives:

  • A major gym refurbishment featuring new Life Fitness equipment, leading to a dramatic increase in class participation from 226 to 706 customers monthly
  • Development of an extensive Additional Support Needs (ASN) programme, including multi-sports activities, and specialised family swimming sessions which supports over 100 families, giving parents and children the opportunity to get active together in a supportive environment.
  • Implementation of their Active Communities programme, providing access to hundreds of people affected by health conditions, disabilities, inequality, and poverty. Working alongside community partners, such as health professionals and social workers, projects such as Steady Steps for people at risk of a fall; Open All Hours, which gives local young people free access to fun diversionary activities on a Friday night; and Looked After & Active for care experienced children and young people make an active life more accessible for local people who face barriers to participation.
  • Investment in staff development and wellbeing, resulting in exceptional customer service scores of 9.5/10

The ukactive awards, open to all UK fitness facilities from independent studios to national chains and leisure trusts, recognised Gracemount’s outstanding commitment to meeting community needs through a rigorous assessment process including written submissions, customer surveys, mystery shopping, and digital reviews.

Gracemount’s success is further evidenced by its above-industry-average member retention rate of 14.4 months, demonstrating its vital role in promoting sustained community health and wellness.

Back in the Saddle: New Course Helps Seniors Rediscover Cycling Joy

Edinburgh Leisure is seeking new participants as it launches an innovative 11-week cycling course, starting Monday, 3rd March, designed specifically for older adults looking to rebuild their cycling confidence. The programme offers a supportive environment for those eager to return to cycling after years away from the handlebars.

The course, based at Saughton Sports Centre’s 400m traffic-free track, uses Cycling Scotland’s acclaimed Bikeability curriculum to help participants regain their cycling prowess. At just £3 per week, or £33 for the block, the programme provides bikes, helmets, and Hi-Viz vests, though participants are welcome to bring their own equipment.

“Cycling is a great way to keep fit, active and mobile while enjoying Edinburgh’s amazing network of dedicated cycle paths,” says Cat Wilson, Edinburgh Leisure’s Project Officer for Older Adults.

“Whether you want to join grandchildren on family rides or meet new people, our experienced volunteers will help you rediscover the joy of cycling at your own pace.”

The course features:

  • Professional instruction in essential skills including safe stopping, proper signalling, and gear management
  • A traffic-free learning environment
  • Fully qualified, passionate volunteer instructors
  • All necessary equipment provided
  • Social, relaxed atmosphere with like-minded participants

Upon completing the initial course, participants can progress to an 8-week Level 2 programme, where they’ll explore Edinburgh’s cycle paths using their newly refined skills.

Important Notes:

  • This is not a beginners’ course but is designed for those who have previously cycled
  • Suitable for adults aged 50 and above
  • No current cycling experience required
  • All abilities welcome

The Ageing Well project, a partnership between NHS Lothian, Edinburgh Leisure, and Pilmeny Development Project, is part of the UK Ageing Well network dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles for older adults and increasing expectations of good health in later life.

For registration, information and to register your interest: Phone: 0131 458 2260 Email: active@edinburghleisure.co.uk

Diving into History: Glenogle Swim Centre hosts Great Lengths exhibition

Dive into history as Glenogle Swim Centre hosts ‘Your Health is for Life – Great Lengths’ exhibition.

Focusing on one of the ten themes of Edinburgh 900 celebrations, ‘the City of Leisure’, the exhibition showcases the history of Edinburgh Leisure’s five Victorian pools and the Royal Commonwealth Pool, and the vital role Edinburgh Leisure has played in promoting active lifestyles for the past 26 years and generations before.

The free exhibition can be viewed on the mezzanine level next to the Café at Glenogle and includes a 2005 film by Sitar Rose and Karen Chambers, ‘Liquid Paradise’, which can be viewed by scanning the QR code and captures the unique atmosphere of the Victorian Warrender Swim Centre.

Kerry Teakle, Project Lead for Edinburgh 900 at Edinburgh Leisure said: “We’re delighted to relocate the exhibition to the historic Glenogle Baths, our stunning Victorian facility in the heart of Stockbridge, as it marks its 125th anniversary year.

“This move gives residents and visitors in this vibrant part of the city a chance to experience the exhibition in a truly special setting. We invite you to make an afternoon of it – enjoy a swim and refuel with a coffee and homemade treat at the fabulous Café at Glenogle while exploring the exhibition in this architectural gem.”

Edinburgh Leisure was awarded funding as part of the prestigious Edinburgh 900 celebrations, a landmark initiative commemorating the city’s rich history.

Edinburgh 900 represents almost a millennium of shared history, and the full programme examines how Edinburgh came to be over centuries, from commerce to conflict and from faith to finance. The programme also celebrates Edinburgh in the present day and looks ahead to its future ambitions and aspirations.

Exhibition Details

Making Waves: Edinburgh Leisure expands Swim Programme with 750 new spaces

Edinburgh Leisure, the city’s leading sports and leisure provider, is expanding its swim programme by creating 750 additional swimming lesson spaces for participants ranging from pre-school children to adults.

The expansion comes at a critical time. While learning to swim remains a vital life skill with significant benefits for social development, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted swimming coaching, causing many teachers to leave the profession.

In response, Edinburgh Leisure has strategically focused on recruiting and training new coaches to restore and enhance its swimming programme.

“Everyone should be able to enjoy Scotland’s beautiful waterways safely and with confidence,” says Angela McCowan, Coaching Programme Manager. “Our Learn to Swim programme gives children and adults the opportunity to develop critical water skills in a supportive environment.”

As part of the Learn to Swim Framework—a collaborative initiative between Scottish Water and Scottish Swimming—Edinburgh Leisure is dedicated to creating inclusive, welcoming spaces where individuals of all abilities can learn alongside their peers.

Key highlights of the programme include:

  • 750 new swimming lesson spaces across multiple venues
  • Fully accredited swim teachers following the Scottish Swimming Learn to Swim Programme
  • Focus on building water confidence for all age groups
  • More spaces and lessons are now available across the city, with the largest increases at Ainslie Park, Drumbrae Leisure Centre, Warrender Swim Centre, and the Royal Commonwealth Pool.

“Our recent coaching customer survey confirmed the high demand for swimming lessons,” McCowan adds. “These additional spaces will make it easier for participants to progress through our programme levels.”

Spaces are expected to fill quickly, particularly at entry levels. Interested individuals are encouraged to book their lessons promptly.

Book Now: 

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/coaching-courses/swimming

Diving Into Opportunity

Free Lifeguard training opens doors for young Edinburgh talent

Edinburgh Leisure, in partnership with The King’s Trust, is offering an exciting opportunity for young people aged 16-30 to launch a career in lifeguarding through a comprehensive free training programme starting in February 2025.

Programme Highlights

The innovative ‘Get into Lifeguarding’ initiative provides a structured pathway to employment, featuring:

  • A pre-selection day with a swim test
  • Free 1-week National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) course
  • One week of work experience at one of Edinburgh Leisure pool venues
  • Mentorship from experienced staff
  • Job interview preparation
  • Up to six months of post-programme support
  • Reimbursed travel expenses and lunches

Programme Timeline

  • w/c 3 February 2025:                 Pre-selection Day
  • 17 – 21 February 2025:             NPLQ Course
  • 24 – 28 February 2025:            Work Experience at an Edinburgh Leisure venue
  • Dates TBC:                                      Interview Experience and Celebration Event

Franek Karwacki, 18, from Trinity, is one of the last cohort’s success stories. He’d left Trinity High School in summer 2024 with outstanding A-grade Highers and had been working part-time in a fish and chip shop.

Unlike many of his peers who pursued immediate university education, Franek chose an alternative path. Encouraged by his father, he applied to the ‘Get Into Lifeguarding Course’ offered by the King’s Trust in partnership with Edinburgh Leisure, viewing it as an opportunity for professional development and personal growth.

“Unlike my university-bound friends who are burning through their savings, I’m earning a steady income. The shift work doesn’t bother me, and I quite enjoy the earlies, starting at 5:30am and ending at 2pm, as it gives me time to pursue my passion for basketball,” he says. 

The programme has opened a door he hadn’t even considered before: “I hadn’t necessarily thought about lifeguarding as a career path,” Franek admitted, “but now I’ve gained skills that were completely paid for and got a job. The support from both Edinburgh Leisure and the King’s Trust had transformed what could have been an uncertain period into a real opportunity.”

Alyson Coats, Manager at Leith Victoria Swim Centre and responsible for the partnership, emphasised the programme’s broader mission: “”This initiative is a win-win. We’re providing young people with a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and potentially launch a career in the leisure industry. 

“For many young people, like Franek, this could be life-changing for them.”

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply by Friday, 24 January 2025:

Spaces are limited to 10 participants. Don’t miss this life-changing opportunity!

 £0 Joining Fee: Kickstart Your Fitness Journey in 2025

As the world welcomes in 2025 and the “New Year, New You” mantra resonates, Edinburgh Leisure is offering an exciting opportunity for fitness enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

With a £0 Joining Fee promotion throughout January 2025, there’s never been a better time to embark on your wellness journey.

Exclusive Membership Promotion: Zero Barriers to Fitness

Designed to make fitness accessible to everyone, regardless of age or fitness level, Edinburgh Leisure, the city’s largest provider of sports and leisure facilities, is breaking down financial barriers with its £0 Joining Fee offer.

Comprehensive Fitness Options

Members gain unlimited access to an impressive range of facilities:

  • 12 pools
  • 17 gyms across the city
  • New Evolve Hybrid gym at Meadowbank
  • Lead and speed climbing facilities
  • Six golf courses
  • Over 750 weekly fitness classes

The no Joining Fee membership is available to new members from January 1st to 31st, 2025.

Fitness for Every Journey

Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned athlete, Edinburgh Leisure offers tailored fitness solutions.

Cutting-Edge Fitness Trends

Edinburgh Leisure has revolutionised the fitness landscape with the launch of Evolve Meadowbank, an official Hyrox Affiliate Training Club.

As the first leisure trust affiliated with Hyrox, they offer classes for both Hyrox newcomers and experienced participants. With a Hyrox competition in Glasgow in March 2025, their specialised membership is perfect for those looking to get competition-ready.

At the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA: Ratho), a significant £100,000 investment from sportscotland’s Sport Facilities Fund and National Lottery Players has transformed climbing opportunities.

The centre has unveiled a state-of-the-art competition bouldering wall, designed by the Serious Climbing team at Rockcity in partnership with Dreamwall.

This remarkable facility makes EICA: Ratho the only climbing centre in the UK with Olympic and International standard facilities across all three climbing disciplines: lead climbing, speed climbing, and bouldering.

This investment demonstrates Edinburgh Leisure’s commitment to providing world-class sporting infrastructure. Climbing enthusiasts and aspiring athletes can now access cutting-edge facilities that support progression at every skill level, from beginners to competitive climbers.

Group Fitness Renaissance

Post-pandemic, group exercise is experiencing a revival. Edinburgh Leisure provides a diverse range of classes:

  • Cardio
  • Dance
  • Strength training
  • Mind and body classes (Yoga and Pilates)

Inclusive Fitness for All Ages

Recognising the importance of fitness across all life stages, Edinburgh Leisure offers:

  • “Get up and Go” gym classes specifically designed for older adults
  • Low-level studio classes for those preferring a slower pace
  • Introductory and personal programmes at no extra cost to support you with a personalised fitness plan to reach your goals.

Your 2025 Fitness Transformation Starts Here

Whether you’re a tech-driven fitness tracker, a studio class enthusiast, or seeking a holistic wellness approach, Edinburgh Leisure provides the tools, support, and motivation to help you achieve your goals.

Embrace the New Year. Transform your fitness. Start your journey today!

Website: www.edinburghleisure.co.uk

#FitnessJourney2025