A fitness centre in the Cumbrian town of Cockermouth is celebrating its anniversary, having offered its services to gym clothing-clad women for two decades.

The women-only fitness centre, called Shapers, was set up by Jacqui Clarkson and her father John Wilson, the Times and Star reports.

It was forced to close in November when it was struck by floods, but has recently reopened.

Mrs Clarkson told the newspaper that it felt "brilliant" to know the gym had reached its 20th anniversary.

"We have a range of clients who come to Shapers. Our oldest is an 89-year-old and the youngest is 16," she added.

Mrs Clarkson went on to thank those who had supported the gym, especially the customers who kept their gym memberships even when it was closed.

A number of exercise machines feature at the gym, including stationary bikes.

According to the NHS, regular cycling can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke.

Posted by Sue Wallis ADNFCR-2569-ID-800015582-ADNFCR

Sport & Fitness Clothing News - Latest Stories

Danger of exercise to hypertensive people 'blocked'

Posted on 06-Apr-11

Scientists have found a way of preventing a greater increase in the blood pressure of women with hypertension when they exercise in their ladies running clothing.

Sport for all initiative hailed a success

Posted on 06-Apr-11

People of all ages, abilities and walks of life donned their gym clothing recently to take part in free sports sessions at the University of Nottingham.

Exercise 'keeps the heart young'

Posted on 05-Apr-11

Women who exercise regularly throughout their lives have stronger, healthier hearts than those who do not don their ladies fitness clothing often, a study has suggested.

Using own body mass 'is helpful in resistance exercise'

Posted on 04-Apr-11

Older women can benefit from donning their gym clothing and taking part in resistance exercises that include using their own body weight.

Progressive resistance training 'is good for seniors'

Posted on 01-Apr-11

Progressive resistance training can help elderly women to improve their strength in their ladies fitness clothing.