Next Gen Canberra - First Impressions Count

"It’s too fancy to say it feels like 'home' – but that’s OK by me. I can go there and feel like I am on holidays for a few hours every week. Bliss..."

A few months ago I was approached by a company asking me to be a ‘health ambassador’ for a gym that hadn’t been built. I thought it sounded like a great opportunity but wasn’t going to commit to anything until I saw the gym in its full fit out.

For more than a decade I have worked as a Group Fitness Instructor in many outstanding gyms across Canberra, so my bar was set high. If a gym was going to become my new ‘go to’ it had to meet some pretty high benchmarks.

Well, this morning I got to see the gym - Next Gen in Lynham. I took my toddler and my husband for a Saturday outing; have an explore and proper sticky beak at their official Open Day. We arrived and the carpark was busy and the local radio station was out the front broadcasting live.

We walked in and were greeted by friendly faces who answered our questions and directed us to the crèche. Crèche was my first priority. As a Mum with a toddler, I need a gym my son feels happy at. We walked in and I met one of the carers. I was impressed to hear that the crèche staff have worked as a team for years and was delighted when my son actually walked away from me and straight over to the toys to play. I was instantly assured that my son would be happy to play there while I workout.

We ventured upstairs for my 'second priority'. I needed to see a pretty slick RPM room because RPM has been such a huge part of my life. I walked in and had to test the bikes out. The 2 bikes I tested were so easy to set up, with cleats (or straps) for my cycling shoes. The ride was smooth and the gears/dial worked like a dream. I was so impressed by the bikes and loved the spacious room. Plenty of bikes so no one misses out on a great Les Mills class.

We explored the weights room, the yoga room, the Group Fitness room and took a peek at the incredible squash courts and swimming pool from the top level. It’s such an impressive looking gym. I have to say I was pretty blown away.

We returned to the ground floor and the café was buzzing. I saw a friend who was enjoying the most amazing looking brunch of eggs and vege. It looked scrumptious and healthy. Big tick there from me. Another big bonus for me, is that the café includes a soft play room for little ones to happily romp in - clearly visible through the glass windows. That means I can enjoy a coffee with my Mama friends while keeping watch over my son. Sure beats trying to keep him happy in a high chair for more than 5 mins!

Before leaving I wanted to find out about Next Gen’s ‘cardio tennis’ located on one of their beautiful tennis courts. I’m the first to say I am a pretty rubbish tennis player, but I always find it loads of fun. Turns out cardio tennis is probably perfect for me. Think ‘boot-camp-circuit’ with tennis elements to get the heart pumping! I’ll definitely be checking that out – sounds FUN!

With computers on hand, a ‘spa’ to relax in, family friendly change rooms and so much more… I have to say, I’ll happily make this gym my new ‘go to’. It’s too fancy to say it feels like 'home' – but that’s OK by me. I can go there and feel like I am on holidays for a few hours every week. Bliss... 

I cannot wait to get in and try out everything the gym has to offer. Take a look at my Instagram @FEEDinc for updates and pics of my antics at Next Gen in Canberra in the coming months. #NextGenCbra

Until next time,
Eat well, be well
Lisa xo



THE DEETS:
Next Gen Canberra
Open from 22 June 2015.
1 Riggall Place, Lyneham
Various membership packages are available
Phone: 1800 077 177
Web: www.nextgenclubs.com.au/home/canberra