Operators across the UK ran special events and gave away free passes to encourage people to try their facilities yesterday (18 September) in celebration of the 13th National Fitness Day.

Organised by UK Active, National Fitness Day is a celebration of fitness which last year encouraged 10 million people to be active. This year the industry body partnered with men’s mental health charity, Movember, and sports reward platform, Endurance Zone, to encourage people to take part in a fitness activity, around the theme of Your Health is For Life.

Weightlifting champion, Emily Campbell, who won bronze at the Paris Olympics, along with ParalympicGB swimmer, Maisie Summers-Newton, came on board this year as ambassadors.

Campbell says: “I’m proud of what I've achieved for TeamGB, but for me it’s even more important to use my platform to show the nation that strength training should be for everybody. I’m committed to giving back to these facilities and communities that have supported me to be where I am today.”

Summers-Newton – who won two golds and a bronze in Paris – was at the London Aquatic Centre for the celebrations, joined members for a workout and a fun diving class. “Physical activity is so important for my health and I’m really passionate about making sure everyone can experience the benefits of being active,” she said.

UK Active CEO, Huw Edwards, said: “National Fitness Day is about celebrating that our health is for life and we are honoured to have two of the stars of this year's Games joining our campaign to celebrate the physical and mental benefits of being active.”

Schools and workplaces across the UK were encouraged to take part by hosting 10@10: 10 minutes of physical activity at 10am, or by putting on a group activity.

Across the UK, operators lay on special events and promotions. Caerphilly County Borough Council offered up annual membership for just £50 for year seven students, as well as complimentary access to facilities and special events, such as free health checks and fitness challenges.

BH Live, in Portsmouth, gave free gym and swim sessions to those quoting National Fitness Day when booking.

Places Leisure extended the offering to free five-day passes to encourage people to come more than once. “Sometimes it just takes one or two visits to a friendly and welcoming centre for individuals to being to tackle their gymtimidation,” said CEO, Belinda Steward.

National Fitness Day was first organised in 2011 by Energie Fitness founder, the late Jan Spaticchia, who gifted it to UK Active to run on behalf of the nation. UK Active has subsequently created a Jan Spaticchia award in his honour.