9 August 2024

Not just a flex: how this group of Canberra health clubs plans to lead fitness sector

| Dione David
Start the conversation
Women work out at Canberra Southern Cross Club health club

Canberra Southern Cross Club constantly invests and reinvests in its gyms to stay at the leading edge. Photo: CSCC.

It takes a multi-pronged approach to become a leader and stay a leader on the competitive playing field of the Canberra fitness sector. But Greg Chamberlain isn’t too worried.

The Canberra Southern Cross Club (CSCC) gyms manager is fairly confident his group is on the right track.

“We view ourselves as a class leader in the Canberra fitness community and want to ensure we stay at the leading edge,” he says.

“Part of that means ensuring we provide the highest quality facilities possible. That’s why we’re constantly re-investing in our gyms to ensure we provide the highest standard of service.”

Last year saw a complete revamp of Stellar in Phillip and this year Anytime Fitness in Jamison got a fresh look, modern design and new equipment. Next year, it’ll be Anytime Fitness Woden’s turn.

READ ALSO Improving your swimming skills isn’t just a fair weather pursuit

CSCC health clubs comprise four Anytime Fitness gyms in Jamison, Woden, Tuggeranong and Phillip. The latter sits within Stellar Canberra – a unique facility combining a women’s gym, heated pool and Canberra’s only dedicated posing room for the body-building community.

Stellar instructors offer almost 80 group fitness classes weekly, covering everything from pump-style sessions to yoga, pilates, dance-based classes, aqua aerobics, classes targeted at older members and much more. A range of services also runs out of the pool including rehabilitation classes, aqua aerobics, kids’ and adult swim classes and member free time.

Under the same roof, allied health professionals including physiotherapists and dieticians provide easy access to a holistic health experience for members.

“We’ve always been very proud of Stellar. It’s a manifestation of our club philosophy,” Greg says.

“We want to provide a safe and supportive fitness environment for all Canberrans regardless of their fitness background or where they are in their fitness journey.

“Whether people are coming into a gym for the first time, are more experienced gym goers, those coming back from injury or older clients looking to maintain health and wellness to ensure a good quality of life in their later years, we’re here for them.”

Canberra Southern Cross Club Anytime Fitness

Last year saw a complete revamp of Stellar in Phillip, which houses a holistic collection of health and wellbeing facilities and services. Photo: CSCC.

To that end, all CSCC’s Anytime Fitness facilities are approved for under 18s. So those aged 14 to 17 can learn good health habits from a young age in a supervised, safe and supportive environment.

Every young person is supported with a fitness assessment and receives an individualised program.

“They’re provided with all the information and guidance they need to learn how to work out safely and ensure they’re doing things the right way from the start. That includes understanding how to separate misinformation from evidence-based fitness approaches,” Greg says.

“These are the learnings that’ll hopefully become a lifestyle as they grow into healthy adults.”

READ ALSO Survivors who ‘get it’ become Bosom Buddies for Canberra breast cancer patients

Greg says the goal for CSCC health clubs is for every member – from youths to older gym goers, first timers to veterans – to walk away achieving their goals.

His highlight is witnessing a member’s conscious decision to follow good habits that benefit their lifestyle.

“If that’s what you want to achieve, it’s a good idea to start by seeking support with a qualified trainer. They have the tools and knowledge to get you where you want to go,” he says.

“Start small. Form little habits that embed fitness into your everyday routine. By simply packing your gym clothes into your work bag, it’s easier to make sure you stop by the gym on the way home.

“Most of all, whatever you choose to do, make it something fun. Whether it’s jumping in the pool, joining a group exercise program or hitting the weights, it has to be something enjoyable for you. It’ll be a habit before you know it.”

For more information contact Canberra Southern Cross Club.

REGION MEDIA PARTNER CONTENT

Start the conversation

Daily Digest

Want the best Canberra news delivered daily? Every day we package the most popular Riotact stories and send them straight to your inbox. Sign-up now for trusted local news that will never be behind a paywall.

By submitting your email address you are agreeing to Region Group's terms and conditions and privacy policy.