COUNTY Durham residents are being offered free leisure centre passes this month to mark National Fitness Day.
Throughout September, Durham County Council is providing free seven-day passes to all of its leisure centres, giving people the opportunity to try out pools, gyms and fitness classes at no cost.
Councillor Karen Allison, cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, said: "Exercise in any form, whether that’s a gentle walk or intense cardio, is beneficial to health and wellbeing.
"We want to encourage residents to explore ways to incorporate movement into their daily life, no matter their fitness level.
"As part of this ambition, we are committed to driving positive lifestyle change and increasing opportunities for residents to access physical activity across the county.
"National Fitness Day is a perfect chance to encourage people to try something new and find a type of exercise that works for them."
In addition to the seven-day leisure centre passes, a free week-long Move Plus Pass is also available.
This pass gives access to gentle exercise classes, pools and walking sports sessions, as well as the council’s Move Hubs, which offer power-assisted exercise equipment.
The council is also offering free taster sessions in yoga, pilates and HIITStep, available at some sites, and is inviting residents to join the new wave of the Couch to 5k programme, now underway at sites across the county.
On National Fitness Day itself, which falls on Wednesday, September 16, leisure centre members can spin the wheel at their local site for the chance to win memberships, guest passes for friends and family, and entries into a grand prize draw.
Two fitness challenges will run throughout September.
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Residents can win membership prizes by collecting MOVE points through the Technogym app, with those earning 2,000 MOVE points on National Fitness Day entered into a draw to win a free 12-month membership.
Additional prize draws are available throughout the month for those who reach 15,000, 30,000, or 50,000 MOVE points.
For more details about National Fitness Day and the full programme of activities, visit www.thriveleisure.co.uk/index.php/activities/september-national-fitness-day-2026/
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