FITNESS fanatics can now exercise their right to a cheaper workout — thanks to a new £100,000 Port Glasgow gym.

Bosses from Inverclyde Leisure (IL) have invested heavily in upgrading and extending the current facility at Boglestone Community Centre and rolled out Fitness for Less — an initiative offering users the chance to get active at a lower cost.

The existing Boglestone gym has been given a dramatic facelift and state-of-the-art Technogym equipment introduced, while the Lesser Hall next door has been transformed into a dedicated weights room.

IL chiefs have thrown their weight behind the initiative and invested the six-figure sum to encourage more people to work out.

The new affordable fitness model means people can enjoy unlimited access to the 60-station gym for £16.99 a month — and £9.99 for the first month until 31 May.

The Boglestone gym got up and running last Monday and the scheme proved popular right from the off, with 22 new members signing up on the first day.

Kieron Vango, IL chief executive, said: “We’re hoping it will attract people who haven’t used the gym before, and that will drive people to get active, which is what we are trying to do.

“We’ve had a huge reaction so far.” The Fitness for Less model will be rolled out to Ravenscraig Sports Centre in the autumn as part of a transformation that will also see a new 120-station gym and a ‘clip and climb’ facility installed.

There are also plans in place to upgrade equipment at IL gyms in Kilmacolm and Gourock.

David McCorkindale, IL head of leisure and community facilities, said: “With Port Glasgow and Ravenscraig we thought we had to diversify a wee bit from our usual model.

“This is the first of its kind in Inverclyde.

“We want to encourage people to be active, stay active and lead a healthier lifestyle.

“We’re making it more affordable for people to do this.

“It’s great value and customers get a discount on fitness classes and swimming as well.” Boglestone gym regulars Sandy McFarland and wife Teresa, from Port Glasgow, told the Tele they were impressed with the new look.

Sandy said: “This is our first time and it looks great.” Fellow fitness fanatic Amy Miller, who also lives in the Port, said: “It’s lovely — really nice — and makes the gym look so much bigger.” Boglestone gym instructor and shift leader Ryan Ross says the transformation and expansion has been great for staff too.

He said: “The layout makes it appear more spacious — people can’t believe how different it looks.

“It’s excellent value for money and to be honest I never thought this would happen in the Port.

“It’s what the community centre needed and a great addition to the top of the town.” For more information call Boglestone gym on 715771 or visit inverclydeleisure.com