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 - simply create your free Places membership before visiting.
Our pay as you go sessions cost £9.50 for adults, £6.00 for seniors and £5.80 for 11-15 year-olds.
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 bespoke digital programme using state-of-the-art EGYM Fitness Hub & Tanita Body Composition scales. 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.
To make the most of your session, please download the EGYM app before your session.
The EGYM app is available for Apple (iOS) and Android devices. Simply visit the App Store for Apple devices and Google Play for Android and search for 'EGYM' or download via the links below.
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.
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 Ongar 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.
Les Mills classes
Les Mills classes are enjoyed all over the world and include Body Pump, Body Combat, Body Balance, Body Attack and Sh’bam.
Pool classes
Classes range from gentle to high impact so you can work hard and enjoy the support of the pool improving strength and fitness.
Take a look at our class timetable to find the one for you. Prices are available to view on our timetable.
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?
Ask a member of the team at Ongar Leisure Centre for more details or call us on 01277 363969.
Exercise referral scheme
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.
Exercise referral scheme
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.
Junior fitness
We run the following supervised sessions for children aged 11-15 years to attend. An induction must be completed as part of the first visit:
- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday: 4.15pm - 5.15pm and 5.15pm - 6.15pm
- Saturday & 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.
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.