FITNESS fans can improve their flexibility, stability and strength in new Aqua Balance classes at the Chester-le-Street Leisure Centre.

The sessions in the centre’s swimming pool, using an Aquabase balance board to give a fun core workout, take place from 6.15pm to 6.45pm on Mondays and from 9am to 9.30am on Sundays. They have to be booked in advance. .

Kaye Stephenson, principal aquatics manager, said “Our Aqua Balance classes have loads of great benefits, including the obvious impacts such as improved cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength, but they can also contribute to better posture, provide a boost to mental wellbeing and improve people’s coordination and balance.

“They’re suitable for all abilities too because, while the instability of balancing in the water makes the core muscles work harder than a normal gym class, the buoyancy of the water reduces stress on the joints.”

Thrive card holders can book online at http://www.durham.gov.uk/clsleisurecentre and non-Thrive card holders can book over the phone on 03000 266 444. Customers can choose whether to wear gym or swim wear to participate in the class, which is priced at £4.20, £2.70 for concessions, and is free for leisure centre users with a swimming membership.