Not so hidden gems in Ramsgate

I don’t think the local Ramsgate Leisure Centre is a mystery to most locals. However, until recently, it was for me.

Nagging by my daughter brought me to the door and I signed up for the two-month summer programme at Ramsgate Leisure Centre. I then went along to the ‘Feel Good Factory’ nearly every day. This is a room full of 12 sitting or lying down machines which move your body for you! Perfect. You have four minutes on each machine then move onto the next one. In fact, you can and should put effort in, and, as I keep being reminded ‘engage your core’.

The best thing about this facility are the people who use it. Mainly, but not entirely, women ‘of a certain age’ (probably younger than me). Many people have had hip and knee replacements, and many have arthritis or have had sprains. It is excellent for people with special needs who are welcomed and encouraged. This sort of exercise is ideal. It also turns out that for many people it is the social interaction that is as attractive as the exercise. The social side of the sports centre is crucial for mental health by regular interaction with others.

Of course, there is much more to the sports centre than the Feel Good Factory. Proper exercise resources such as treadmills and rowing machines, classes such as yoga and dance, sports such as badminton, paddle ball, table tennis, indoor bowls and swimming. My grandson learnt to swim there and is now a champion – in my eyes.

Membership of the Ramsgate Leisure Centre also gives you membership of the other sports centres in Thanet. I would encourage everyone to go along to see what is on offer.

Written by:
Councillor Pat Makinson,
Sir Moses Montefiore Ward