Horizon Leisure launches ‘Horizon Buddies’ network

Leisure facility operator, Horizon Leisure, has launched a customer ‘buddy group’ designed to connect individuals with similar fitness goals and support its members working out at its wellbeing centres across the South East.

The Horizon Buddies programme has been launched by the charitable trust via a Facebook group and, in just a few days, almost 200 people have joined the group, with many introducing themselves and finding new fitness partners.

Horizon Buddies was the brainchild of Horizon Leisure member, Ree, 29, who felt less confident working out in the weights area of the gym without her personal trainer and was looking for a workout partner.

Alexandra Pinhorn, Marketing Manager, Horizon Leisure, said: “The Facebook group, which is managed by my team, encourages members at our centres in Havant, Waterlooville and Guilford to introduce themselves, share their fitness goals, and connect with like-minded gym buddies. It’s a supportive, non-judgemental community where members are asked to respect boundaries, be kind and be reliable.

“It’s been amazing to see the community grow so quickly, and we’re excited to see even more connections form. Although this isn’t exclusively a women’s group, it’s striking that 90% of our buddies are women. It clearly demonstrates that leisure operators must do more to make women feel more comfortable about working out in the gym because everyone deserves the right to exercise safely and with confidence.”