Gym, classes and fitness
We're dedicated to helping our members stay active in whatever way suits them. That's why we've developed a comprehensive plan to ensure we can provide you with the support you need.
We offer a range of memberships to suit you, depending on your needs, from Swim Only deals to our all-encompassing Premium Plus membership.
Alternatively, we also welcome day visitors - find out how to create your free Places membership and claim your day pass.
Our current pay as you go rates are as follows:
Adult: £10.00
Older adults: £6.40
Adults (with disabilities): £4.60
Junior: £6.40
Gym support
We offer a free one-to-one support session for our members* to help familiarise you with the gym, to get to know your goals and build a personalised workout plan. We’ll ensure you leave the session feeling confident and ready to start your programme. The session lasts for an hour and can be booked online.
You are also welcome to book one free 15-minute programme review a month, just speak to a member of our team.
Our gyms are not always manned, but rest assured support is never far away. Our equipment is labelled with QR codes, which when scanned, provide you with a video tutorial.
For all your digital fitness tracking and programming support, visit the 'digital fitness' section of our Places Leisure app.
*One-to-one support sessions are free of charge to Premium Plus memberships, Premium memberships and Gym Only memberships. For Places Members, One-to-one Introductions are included in the casual entrance fee rate.
Gym etiquette
We want everyone's time in our gym to be as comfortable as possible, so we ask all visitors to remember the below when using the facilities.
- Please help us keep the gym clean by wiping down equipment after use
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the activity you're doing
- Lifting barefoot or in socks is permitted on lifting platforms only
- Make use of our lockers for bags
- Our gym's aren't always manned, so if you require assistance or support when there are no team members on the gym floor, please visit our friendly reception team
- In case of emergency, push the assistance alarm
- During busy times, please be mindful of the length of time you spend on each piece of equipment to allow other gym users to complete their workout
Junior Gym etiquette
- A gym induction must be completed before using the gym
- 1 adult (18 years+) can attend with up to four Junior members and is responsible for the Junior member's conduct
- You must follow all exercise programme advice given by our Fitness team
By following the guidance above, we hope all visitors can enjoy their visits to the gym.
Take a virtual tour
Want to take a look at our gym and the rest of the centre before your visit? Our virtual tour allows you to explore everything we have to offer.
Group workout classes
We host a range of classes, across all intensities so whatever you’re in the mood for, come along and dance, lift, run & relax with us.
Classes at Waltham Abbey Leisure Centre
We operate a range of fitness classes at our centre, both in and out of the pool. Take a look at some of the types of activities we've got for you:
Group cycling
Ride like the wind with our group cycling classes. You’ll feel like you’ve had a workout with one of these sessions.
Studio classes
Offering a range of intensities from gentle and relaxing to a more intensive workout, you’ll be able to find a class that suits you.
Low impact classes
Our low intensity classes are just as important as our high energy offering. Our Social Lively Classes are ideal for those looking to keep active and socialise with others! 40 - 45 minutes of fun, gentle, chair based exercise followed by a complimentary hot drink and chat in our café.
Les Mills classes
Les Mills classes are enjoyed all over the world including BODYBALANCE, a yoga, tai chi, Pilates workout that builds flexibility and strength, and BODYPUMP, a barbell class that strengthens your entire body.
Virtual cycling classes
Workout in your own time, with regular classes throughout the day our virtual Les Mills RPM cycling offers flexibility for busy lives
Take a look at our class timetable to find the one for you.
Personal training
Are you doing the same workout each time you come to gym? Are you lacking motivation? Are you not achieving your goals?
If you relate to any of the above, personal training is for you! The clue is the title – Personal training is all about you! With a range of packages & prices available, what are you waiting for?
Meet your PTs
We've got a great team of personal trainers at Waltham Abbey Leisure Centre. Meet the team...
Sian Sellen
I love helping people achieve their fitness goals no matter what they might be. I have a masters in sports rehabilitation and specialise in injury, pre and post op, as well as health conditions.
Give me a call today to let me help you be the best version of yourself
Marek Tonder
Are you ready for a transformation? I'm here to help you achieve the best version of yourself!
I am a graduate of Roehampton University in Sport and Exercise Science, and I specialise in strength and conditioning, building muscle and losing fat. With my support I will help you shape your body, raise your self-confidence and energy level. Together, we will break down all barriers and overcome challenges!
Contact me now, and let's start this amazing journey towards a better version of yourself!
Chelsea Sampson
I specialise in fat loss and building a lean, toned body and trust me I have first hand experience in every stage of the process! I will provide you with all the knowledge and encouragement to live an active, healthy lifestyle in a fun, easy and sustainable way
Ask a member of the team at Waltham Abbey Leisure Centre for more details or call us on 01992 761540.
Exercise Referral
Exercise Referral is a formalised method of enabling those with certain medical conditions, and health risks, to access exercise in a safe and effective manner. Having been referred by a registered health professional you have the reassurance of knowing that physical activity is considered to be appropriate for you.
Proudly supporting the We Are Undefeatable movement
Exercise Referral
About the programme
Engaging in regular physical activity can positively impact weight management, mental wellbeing, heart health and muscle and joint functions. Being active not only helps manage existing health conditions but also serves as a preventive measure against other health complications.
Exercise Referral offers an ideal opportunity for individuals with long-term health conditions to increase their physical activity and enhance their overall health and wellness.
Our Exercise Referral membership offers an initial 12-week support programme, tailored to empower individuals to self-manage their conditions with increased confidence.
Who is eligible for the Exercise Referral membership?
Individuals with a range of long-term health conditions, such as asthma, arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, depression, anxiety, osteoporosis and rehabilitation from Covid-19, are welcome to participate in the Exercise Referral Scheme.
How to enrol
If you have a long-term health condition, including those mentioned above, simply consult your GP, nurse, physio, social prescriber or other healthcare practitioner. If you meet the eligibility criteria, they can refer you to your preferred Places Leisure centre.
The Exercise Referral programme comes at a discounted rate & offers great value for money. Please speak to a member of the team regarding prices & payment options available to you.
What is included in the Exercise Referral programme?
Our programme gives you access to expert guidance and exercise prescription from a qualified instructor. Your journey on the programme will include:
- Initial health assessment from a qualified instructor
- Support on exercise goals and techniques
- Personalised guidance and encouragement
- Drop-in supervised support sessions
- Ongoing support & advice
- Access to the gym and swimming pool
- Group exercise classes
We want to support your health for the long-term and you will have the opportunity to continue your membership with us after your 12 weeks programme.
Are you a Health or Social Care Practitioner that would like more information on the Places Leisure Exercise Referral programme? Please click here for more details on referring into this programme.
Big Sister project
Big Sister helps girls aged 9-15 in target areas feel ‘sport ready’ by recruiting a network of ‘big sisters’ to empower and enable girls to enjoy sport, exercise, and physical activity during puberty.
As part of our commitment to helping girls get into activity we are offering a free membership to girls who meet the eligibility criteria*, or a 50% discounted membership for all other girls, which includes:
- Unlimited gym use during Junior Gym hours, which includes a gym induction (11-15 year olds)
- After initial gym induction, unlimited access to the gym at any time when accompanied by an adult aged 18+
- Unlimited swimming
- Age appropriate group workout classes including exclusive We Move classes every Monday 5.15pm-5.45pm
- Friendly on-site team, to support you through your activity
- Free access to Places Leisure App and Virtual Studio which includes a Big Sister channel
To enquire, click the button below and complete the form, a member of the team will be in touch
*Proof of eligibility required. Click below for full details.
Junior fitness
We run the following supervised sessions for children aged 11-15 years to attend:
- Monday - Friday 3.30pm - 4.15pm and 4.15pm - 5.00pm
- Saturday and Sunday 11.00am - 12.00pm
All junior gym users must complete a group introduction before using the gym independently. These sessions last 30 minutes and can be booked with a member of our team when joining.
An induction will need to be completed at each centre to be used
Once a junior member has completed their introduction and received programme advice they can attend outside the above supervised sessions with a parent/guardian or appropriate adult (18+) on a ratio of a maximum four juniors per adult.