I have been a member of Sparkhill Pool and Fitness Centre since 2022, and my experience over the years has been extremely positive. The centre provides a welcoming, friendly, and inclusive environment, with excellent facilities for gym training, swimming, and fitness classes. The staff and instructors are always approachable, supportive, and helpful, which makes a huge difference.
When I first joined, I mainly used the gym and occasionally went swimming, but I struggled at times to stay motivated. Since I started attending classes regularly in mid-2024, my motivation and enjoyment of fitness have improved massively, and I now genuinely look forward to coming to the gym.
One of my favourite classes has always been Tabata. Amina’s classes were fantastic, bringing great energy and intensity to every session. Since Amina went on maternity leave, Lamin has taken over the class and has been brilliant so far. He has kept the same format and atmosphere that members enjoyed while also bringing his own enthusiasm and motivation.
Thursday GRIT classes were previously led by Shabila, and since Lamin has taken over those sessions as well, he has continued exactly where Shabila left off. The classes remain intense, challenging, and enjoyable, and it is clear he genuinely cares about helping members push themselves and improve.
I also thoroughly enjoy Tom’s Pilates classes and the AMRAP Circuits classes, previously known as Group Cycling Circuits. Tom creates a great balance between challenge and enjoyment, making every session motivating and fun.
The recently introduced Adult MMA classes have also been a fantastic addition. The class was initially led by Aamir, with Hamid and occasionally Lamin covering sessions, and is now permanently led by Sensei Akid. The sessions are intense, challenging, and something completely different from the other classes on offer. Sensei Akid runs the class in a way that keeps members motivated and wanting to return every week.
I also used to attend Balal’s Power class, previously held on Fridays at 6:45pm. It was always a very enjoyable and challenging class, although unfortunately I can no longer attend since it moved to Thursdays at 8:00pm.
Another brilliant class was the Saturday and Sunday Boxercise/Box Fit class led initially by PT Junaid. The class was highly challenging, energetic, and offered something different compared to the other sessions available at the centre. After Junaid left, Ibaad initially took over before the class was eventually removed from the timetable permanently. I genuinely enjoyed attending while it lasted, and it is a shame the class never returned.
The reception staff also deserve recognition. Shak, Tahir, and Umar are always friendly, approachable, and happy to help whenever needed, and they contribute greatly to the welcoming atmosphere of the centre.
Overall, Sparkhill Pool and Fitness Centre has had a genuinely positive impact on my fitness journey. The combination of excellent facilities, supportive staff, and motivating instructors makes it a fantastic place to train, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a welcoming and enjoyable fitness environment.