A new concept in exercise bike is now installed in the gym at Wentworth Leisure Centre, Hexham. The Wattbike, endorsed by UK Cycling, offers the closest experience to road cycling possible in an indoor setting.

Unlike standard gym cycles, the Wattbike is designed for high intensity workouts, both standing and seated.

The bikes have consoles which monitor and record not only speed and distance, but can also determine where the cyclist's power lies. In can tell you if both legs are working equally hard, highs and lows in power during an endurance event and so much more besides.

Alan Copland, Chair of One Life Racing Triathlon Club says, "I was delighted when Wentworth contacted me for my input on buying some new indoor cycling equipment. I immediately recommended the Wattbike for the huge range of benefits it could bring our current and prospective club members, especially when the weather prevents outdoor cycling.

Serious athletes can use the bikes to improve track performance and fitness, thanks to the reliable data output, whilst novices benefit enormously from the power distribution information which helps encourage a smoother pedal stroke."

Alan adds, "Thanks to the flexibility of the set up the Wattbike is perfect for doing a full bike 'fit' for junior or novice cyclists. This prevents an inexperienced athlete from buying the wrong sized bike which can lead to poor performance and even injury. The Wattbikes can also be used in some great fun activities - when they are linked together, cyclists can race each other in real time and test their peak power output against each other."

The Wattbike is just one of several new pieces of gym equipment at Wentworth Leisure Centre, one of which is the recently installed Power Plate - a vibration exercise machine which works by stimulating the muscles to contract and relax.

Lindy Higgins, fitness manager at Wentworth says, "We are really lucky to be able to keep re-investing in the facilities we can provide for our gym users and offer our customers all the latest technology and equipment.

The Wattbikes add a new dimension to the training programme of any cyclist, or anyone who just wants to add variety to their workout, whilst the Power Plate is a great time saver, toning muscles and helping to banish cellulite in as little as ten minutes per session. Our instructors are always on hand and are really keen to show customers how to get the most out of all the equipment on offer."