Strongman Jacob puts new gym to the test

Tuesday, 17 June 2025 01:48

Wales' Strongest Man has helped to officially open a new 'strength gym' at Barry Lesiure Centre.

Jacob Brooke, who is a member at the leisure centre, was among the first to use the new facility, which was made possible following recent upgrade work.

The project saw an existing space to the side of the centre being transformed into a modern strength and functioning training zone for over 16s.

Luke Edwards, Barry Leisure Centre manager, said: "The team and I have been working hard on this project over the last 18 months, so we are delighted to be able to get to the point where customers and the community will benefit."

"We are all very excited for the opening and to receive customer feedback on the developments."

The new gym includes a range of new and refurbished lifting equipment, including benches, squat racks and deadlift platforms.

The training area features two new Powermill Climbers along with two new Powermill Climbers, an Airbike, a SkiErg, Battle Ropes, Plyo boxes and two 15 metre sled tracks.

The new facility has been joint funded by Parkwood Leisure, the Vale of Glamorgan Council and the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund.

It comes two years after the main gym was upgraded with the leisure centre now able to expand its fitness classes and provide more sports hall time and children's activities.

Funding was also provided to refurbish the changing rooms and toilets at Llantwit Major Leisure Centre.

Cllr Gwyn John, cabinet member for leisure and sport, said: "We're delighted to add this brand-new facility to our leisure offering in the Vale. It's a great asset for the local community, and we were proud to support it as a council."

"Our partnership with Parkwood and Legacy Leisure continues to thrive, with growing user numbers and the social value that comes with more people using our facilities and keeping active."

The strength gym is available to all members over the age of 16 at no extra cost - with non-members able to use the facility on a pay-as-you-go basis.