From fitness challenges to spin the wheel prizes, residents in County Durham are being encouraged to boost their physical health this National Fitness Day.

Throughout September, Durham County Council has arranged a series of activities and challenges to encourage people to find new ways to move.

This includes offering residents free seven-day passes to its leisure centres throughout the month, which can be used to access the centres’ pools, classes and gyms.

On National Fitness Day itself, Wednesday 16 September, leisure centre members can spin the wheel at their local site for the chance to win memberships, guest passes for friends and family, and entries into a grand prize draw.

A month-long fitness challenge will also run throughout September, where anyone who achieves 2,000 ‘move points’ in one day via the Technogym app will be entered to win a year’s membership.

Cllr Karen Allison, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, said: “Exercise in any form, whether that’s a gentle walk or intense cardio, is beneficial to health and wellbeing. We want to encourage residents to explore ways to incorporate movement into their daily life, no matter their fitness level.

“As part of this ambition, we are committed to driving positive lifestyle change and increasing opportunities for residents to access to physical activity across the county. National Fitness Day is a perfect chance to encourage people to try something new and find a type of fitness that works for them.”

For more information about the council’s leisure centres, visit September National Fitness Day 2026