Fitness training provider Premier Training International (PTI) has announced the official opening of its £550,000 flagship academy in Finsbury Park, London.

The 12,187sq ft (1,132sq m) facility was launched by PTI founder Norman Basson and chief executive Debra Stuart and includes a new on-site job shop for personal trainers. PTI's new London Academy is the provider's largest investment in a single site since it formed in 1993, and is to become the leading venue in its network of 19 training facilities across the UK.

Stuart said: "Premier has trained more than 30,000 students since 1993 and our commitment towards providing students with the best quality training was behind our decision to invest in this new academy. "It will provide students with the latest educational and training facilities as well as becoming a world class centre for research and development in our sector."

PTI has partnerships with operators Fitness First, LA Fitness and David Lloyd Leisure among others, and it is hoped the job shop will offer personal trainers a range of employment opportunities. "By offering this complete package we will increase opportunities to progress from the classroom to the gym floor, meaning our graduates will have the best careers advice available in the industry," added Stuart.

Image: PTI founder Norman Basson (left) with chief executive Debra Stuart