Birmingham Leisure Centres to Offer Extended Hours During Ramadan
The Birmingham Community Leisure Trust (BCLT) has announced that two of its leisure centres will extend their opening hours to accommodate customers observing Ramadan, which runs from February 17 to March 18 this year.
Flexible Access for Fasting Individuals
Fox Hollies Leisure Centre and Ladywood Leisure Centre will remain open until 11pm from Monday to Thursday. This initiative aims to provide greater flexibility for members of the local community who are fasting and wish to maintain their fitness routines.
The extended hours allow people to use the facilities after breaking their fast at Iftar, the evening meal consumed at sunset during Ramadan. This adjustment supports those who find it more manageable to exercise later in the evening during this holy period.
Supporting Health and Wellbeing Goals
Romana Naz Khan, a Personal Trainer at Fox Hollies Leisure Centre, emphasized the importance of this move. "It is crucial that individuals who want to stay consistent with their health and wellbeing goals during Ramadan have access to supportive facilities," she said.
"For many members, training later in the evening is much more feasible during Ramadan. Having the centres open until 11pm enables people to exercise after Iftar, helping them stay on track with their goals and feel supported."
Khan encouraged those observing Ramadan to maintain their fitness routines. "Even a short 20-minute workout can significantly impact physical and mental wellbeing, so take advantage of the later opening times," she added.
Enhanced Comfort for Female Members
Fox Hollies Leisure Centre's ladies-only gym will also extend its hours until 11pm, offering additional comfort and convenience for female members who prefer a dedicated workout space.
Commitment to Community Needs
This initiative is part of BCLT's ongoing commitment to supporting the diverse needs of Birmingham's communities, ensuring everyone can prioritize their health and wellbeing. Members of other BCLT sites are welcome to attend Fox Hollies or Ladywood Leisure Centres during the extended hours.
In partnership with Serco Leisure, BCLT operates ten leisure facilities across Birmingham on behalf of Birmingham City Council.
