Pro SW Gym, a new independent gym which to be used by Ghana's national boxing team ahead of the London 2012 Games, has opened its doors in Loughton, Essex.

A Life Fitness-equipped cardio suite and 15 Spinner NXT bikes from Star Trac are among the facilities at the new 4,000sq ft (372sq m) boxing and fitness centre.

Designed to cater for amateur and professional boxers alike, Pro SW Gym also comprises a full-size ring with six ringside punchbags; a speed ball and two floor-to-floor ceiling balls.

The new facility offers monthly memberships, which include fitness classes, at £49, while a pay-as-you-go option is also available starting at £10 for use of the gym.

Pro SW Gym owner Michael Amoo-Bediako said: "Boxing is an intensive sport, which requires a lot of cardio and resistance work.

"Speed and stamina are vital for elite boxers, but to achieve greatness, time needs to be spent on building up cardio and respiratory fitness levels."