Edinburgh Leisure’s much-loved Festive Gymnastics Display is back for another spectacular year, bringing together over 800 gymnasts from across the city and beyond to perform in front of an expected audience of more than 2,000 spectators at Meadowbank Sports Centre on Sunday, 30 November 2025.

Now in its 19th year, the event will feature 46 teams from six Edinburgh Leisure gymnastics venues, including a special performance from some of the coaching staff. Joining them are guest clubs from across the Lothians and Fife, showcasing a dazzling array of talent and teamwork.

Dorothy McQueen, Gymnastics Development Officer at Edinburgh Leisure, said: “This event is a celebration of progress, participation and pure enjoyment. It’s a chance for our gymnasts to show their families and friends what they’ve been working on all year, and for guest clubs to experience the energy and community spirit of Edinburgh Leisure. The atmosphere is always electric, and it’s a wonderful way to round off the coaching year.”

The day is split into two sessions:
• Morning session: 09:00 – 12:15
• Afternoon session: 13:00 – 16:15

Tickets are priced at £5.80 per person, with under-5s free (no seat provided). Tickets are on sale now via TicketSource, with participating gymnasts guaranteed one pre-sale ticket. Each customer can purchase up to six tickets. To book tickets, visit: www.ticketsource.co.uk/edinburgh-leisure-events

Edinburgh Leisure is also welcoming volunteers to help the day run smoothly. From assisting with registration to guiding guests, it’s a great opportunity to get involved in a community event. No gymnastics experience is required.

To volunteer or for more information, contact Dorothy McQueen at Dorothymcqueen@edinburghleisure.co.uk.

Edinburgh Leisure’s gymnastics programme caters to all ages and abilities, from toddlers in Baby Nippers to advanced gymnasts in disciplines such as trampolining, acro and display gymnastics. Learn more at: www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/coaching

Bookings go live today, Tuesday, 30th September for Edinburgh Leisure’s latest Mind & Body Event, a full-day celebration of movement, mindfulness, and wellbeing.

Taking place on Saturday, 25th October at Meadowbank Sports Centre, this special event invites both members and non-members to explore the variety of mind/body classes available across Edinburgh Leisure venues.

Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve flexibility, or simply find a moment of calm, this event offers something for everyone. Attendees can choose from energising sessions in Studio 1 or calming, restorative classes in Studio 2 and the Cycle Studio, with expert instructors guiding each experience.

Classes include:

Studio 1 – Higher Energy

• 09:00 – Fitness Pilates (Sterenn L)
• 10:15 – Shapes: Pilates & Barre Conditioning (Alex S & Krista B)
• 11:15 – Pilates (Kris F)
• 12:30 – M1ND: Unwind (Sara K)

Studio 2 – Slow It Down

• 08:00 – Hatha Yoga: Restorative Flow (Simone B)
• 09:00 – Vinyasa Yoga: Energy Flow (Cat P)
• 10:15 – Body Balance (Mari A)

Cycle Studio

• 11:15 – Ashtanga Yoga: Strength Flow (Mark S)
• 12:30 – Yin Yoga: Unwind (Zosia R)

Additional classes are still to be confirmed, promising even more opportunities to explore what moves you.

All classes are just £5.25 for non-members and are free for Edinburgh Leisure Members. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or simply curious, this is your chance to try something new in a welcoming, relaxed space.

Book via the Edinburgh Leisure app or on the website from 30th September and join Edinburgh Leisure for a day of movement, mindfulness, and feel-good energy.

For more information: https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/mind-body-fitness-event/

With just 59% of school-aged children meeting the recommended daily levels of physical activity, the start of the new school term is the perfect time to get kids moving. Edinburgh Leisure is encouraging families to help their children discover their next big passion through sport by signing up for one of its fun and engaging coaching courses.

With a spotlight on three exciting sports – Diving, Climbing, and Tennis – the campaign encourages children aged P1 and up to try something new, build skills, and have fun in a supportive, expert-led environment. Whether they’re scaling new heights, making a splash, or smashing their first serve, there’s something for everyone.

Angela McCowan, Sports Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure said: “We want to encourage parents to give their children a new exciting hobby to look forward to this term and sport could be their next big thing. As the leading provider of sports and leisure facilities, we have a wide range of
coaching opportunities available across our venues for all abilities.

“Sports coaching offers so much more than just learning the game or skill – it helps children build confidence, develop strong listening and communication skills, and stay active in line with recommended exercise levels. It’s about nurturing life skills through movement, teamwork, and fun – giving every child the chance to grow both on and off the court, pitch, or pool.”

It is recommended that children and young people aged 5-18 years should aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity daily, with some of this activity being bone and muscle strengthening.

Preschoolers, aged 3-5 years, should be active throughout the day, with at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity. 

In Scotland, it is estimated that approximately 69-71% of children aged 5-15 meet the recommended 60 minutes of daily physical activity, including school-based activities. When excluding school-based activities, this figure drops to about 59%. There’s a notable age-related decline, with younger children (5-7 years old) being more active (around 80%) than older teens (13-15 years old) (around 60%). 

Why Join?

• Fun and friendly coaching for all abilities
• Expert instructors to guide every step
• A great way to stay active, make friends, and build confidence
• Flexible options across the city

Parents and guardians are encouraged to visit https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/coaching-activities/ to explore available sessions and sign up.

Let this term be the start of something big – because Diving, Climbing, or Tennis could be their next big thing.

Edinburgh Leisure, in partnership with The King’s Trust, is offering an exciting opportunity for young people aged 16-30 years to launch a career in lifeguarding through a comprehensive free training programme starting in August 2025.

To be eligible to apply, candidates must NOT be currently in full-time work or education (including school) and they must be aged between 16 and 30 years old.

Programme Highlights

The innovative ‘Get into Lifeguarding’ initiative provides a structured pathway to employment, featuring:
• A pre-selection day with a swim test, which will take place on 13 August
• Free 1-week National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) course
• One week of work experience at one of Edinburgh Leisure’s pool venues
• Mentorship from experienced staff
• Job interview preparation
• Up to six months of post-programme support
• Reimbursed travel expenses and lunches

Programme Timeline

Week 1: King’s Trust Team Building & Employability Skills Workshops at King’s Trust Venue
Week 2: NPLQ course week at Edinburgh Leisure Venue.
Week 3: King’s Trust CV and Interview Preparation Workshops at King’s Trust Venue
Week 4: Work Placement Week at Edinburgh Leisure Venue.
Week 5: Guaranteed Interviews & Celebration Event with Edinburgh Leisure & King’s Trust

Franek Karwacki, 18, from Trinity, is one of a previous cohort’s success stories.

He left Trinity High School in the summer of 2024 with outstanding A-grade Highers and had been working part-time in a fish and chip shop.

Unlike many of his peers who pursued immediate university education, Franek chose an alternative path. Encouraged by his father, he applied to the ‘Get Into Lifeguarding Course’ offered by the King’s Trust in partnership with Edinburgh Leisure, viewing it as an opportunity for professional development and personal growth.

Unlike his university-bound friends who were burning through their savings, it was an opportunity for him to earn a steady income in his ‘gap year’. The shift work didn’t bother him either, with him enthusing: “I quite enjoy the earlies, starting at 5:30 am and ending at 2 pm, as it gives me time to pursue my passion for basketball,” he says.

The programme opened a door he hadn’t even considered before. “I hadn’t necessarily thought about lifeguarding as a career path,” Franek admitted, “but now I’ve gained skills that were completely paid for and got a job. The support from both Edinburgh Leisure and the King’s Trust transformed what could have been an uncertain period into a real opportunity.”

A year on, having worked as a lifeguard at Leith Victoria, the qualifications have springboarded him into his next chapter. He has recently left Edinburgh Leisure to finally join his peers by heading to university in Sweden to study Economics and Society. “I’m going to be looking into lifeguarding opportunities while I’m in Sweden to support my studies, so the qualifications have definitely come in handy.”

Karen West, Manager at Portobello Swim Centre emphasised the programme’s broader mission: “This initiative is a win-win. We’re providing young people with a unique opportunity to learn, grow, and potentially launch a career in the leisure industry. For many young people, like Franek, this could be life-changing for them.”

How to Apply

For Programme-related enquiries and to apply, email by 7 August:
CentralSouthEastScotlandOperations@kingstrust.org.uk

Spaces are limited to 12 participants. Don’t miss this life-changing opportunity!

Edinburgh Leisure is calling on the public to lace up their walking shoes, don their tartan and join them for a cause that truly matters – helping older adults in Edinburgh stay active, connected, and happy.

On Saturday, 14th September 2025, a team from Edinburgh Leisure will be taking part in the Edinburgh Kiltwalk, walking to raise vital funds to support older adults across the city and they want you to join them. Every step taken and every pound raised will go directly towards improving the lives of older people – not just funding a project but making a real difference to real people.

The money raised will support participants of Ageing Well, one of Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programmes, which offers a lifeline of physical activity and social connection to older adults across the city.

Last year, almost 80 participants joined the Edinburgh Leisure Kiltwalk Team and raised £17,500, enabling the delivery of the 2024-25 project. This year they’re aiming for £15,000 to keep this life-changing work going. Every penny (plus gift aid) goes directly to Ageing Well.

All those signing up to the Kiltwalk to raise funds for Edinburgh Leisure will receive a 50% discount on the registration fee and an Edinburgh Leisure T-shirt and a tartan-themed snood.

Rachael McCrae, Head of Funding for Edinburgh Leisure explained: “Many people don’t realise we’re a charity. Ageing Well supports older adults in Edinburgh to stay active and stay connected. It’s led by a fantastic team, which includes many older adult volunteers and offers walking, cycling, gardening, buddy swimming and more. Like many charities with reduced funding, we’re feeling the pinch! Every pound raised will help keep this going – and with your Kiltwalk steps, you’ll get active too!”
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The Kiltwalk has three walk lengths, which can be signed up, with a 50% reduced registration for:

• The Mighty Stride (approx. 21 miles) – £10 registration fee
• The Big Stroll (approx. 11 miles) – £10 registration fee
• The Wee Wander (approx. 5 miles) – £6.50 for adults, £3.50 for children

Edinburgh Leisure’s Active Communities programme supports 14,700 people annually who face the greatest barriers to getting active– people affected by health conditions, inequalities, and poverty.

Your participation in the Kiltwalk will raise crucial funds to promote health, happiness, and connectedness among older adults in Edinburgh whilst contributing to a fantastic and enjoyable event.

To find out more about signing up with Edinburgh Leisure to walk the Kiltwalk, and to get your 50% discount, click here.

To find out more about the Kiltwalk, click here.

Edinburgh Leisure is on the hunt for the next generation of divers. For those who have been inspired by divers such as Jack Laugher, Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix (daughter of Fred!) and Tom Daley, Edinburgh Leisure is offering the opportunity for children to come and try diving with our experienced coaches at the Royal Commonwealth Pool to see if they have a talent for the sport.

Children should be between 5 and 16 years old, able to swim 10 metres unaided, confident in deep water and submerge in water without goggles. No experience in necessary as they will be learning basic skills but those interested in gymnastics, trampolining, acrobatics or similar sports might enjoy this opportunity to try a new sport.

Priced at just £3, the diving taster sessions at the Royal Commonwealth Pool are offered on:

Monday 4 – Friday 8 August at 17.10 – 17.40

To secure a place, interested people should visit the Edinburgh Leisure website –
https://shorturl.at/uLDKw

Edinburgh Leisure offers a world-class diving programme at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, complete with a dedicated dry dive area featuring trampolines and harnesses, which enables more experienced divers to practice twists and turns before attempting them on the boards. Their diving programme follows the National Diving Award Scheme right through to competitive level.

Athletes training at the Royal Commonwealth Pool include local Edinburgh boy, James Heatly (GB); Yona Knight-Wisdom (Jamaica) and Grace Reid, who grew up in the capital, are amongst other Olympians who have previously trained at the Commie.
For more information: https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/coaching-activities/diving/

Fifty-year-old Duncan Kirkpatrick’s recovery journey provides a great example of how physical activity can transform rehabilitation outcomes following a haemorrhagic stroke. Just months after his life-changing medical event on 17 December 2023, Duncan is demonstrating remarkable progress through his commitment to sessions at Edinburgh Leisure’s Ainslie Park Leisure Centre.

The former painter and decorator, who played golf five to six times weekly before his stroke on 17 December 2023, now visits his local leisure centre six times a week – despite previously believing “the gym wasn’t for him.”

“His ultimate aim is to get back to playing golf,” says his wife of 15 years, Stacey, who has dedicated herself to supporting Duncan’s recovery journey. “But for now, he’s concentrating on the simple things we all take for granted, like walking and restoring movement in his right arm and hand.”

Following the stroke, Duncan’s right side was severely affected, with little to no feeling in his arm or leg. He also developed foot drop, a common post-stroke condition that affects walking. Duncan now wears a custom-designed ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) to reduce the risk of tripping or falling.

The Kirkpatricks’ journey with Edinburgh Leisure began in February 2024 when they visited Ainslie Park Leisure Centre to use the pool. With finances tight following an unexpected eviction from their rented home, Duncan has benefited from Edinburgh Leisure’s Get Active Card – a membership offering people on low incomes off-peak access to facilities for just £10 monthly without joining fees.

“Duncan was determined to walk into the pool,” Stacey recalls. “Fortunately, the design at Ainslie Park allowed him to do just that.” With assistance from Edinburgh Leisure staff who provided pool noodles for support, water-based exercise helped build Duncan’s confidence and strength.

Since then, Duncan has progressed to the gym where instructors Anna and Ricky have designed specialised programmes, including backwards treadmill walking to improve balance and coordination, and weight machines to strengthen his upper body and increase flexibility in affected muscles. He also walks forward on the treadmill for 1km each session, with an incline of two.

The couple supplements these sessions with weekly classes at the NHS Stroke Centre at Longstone, Chinese acupuncture, and their own E-Stim machine, which uses low-voltage electrical currents to stimulate nerves and muscles. They’ve even tried unconventional approaches such as applying stinging nettles to Duncan’s affected calf muscle – a technique Stacey discovered through a Canadian stroke survivor on TikTok.

Stacey, a self-employed luxury balloon stylist who was running Elevated Balloons & Events by Stacey, has paused much of her business to support Duncan’s recovery.

She’s been documenting his progress on TikTok (@roadtorecovery32) to connect with other stroke survivors and their families.

“No one chooses this to happen to them, and you find yourself being part of a unique group,” she explains. “A stroke doesn’t just affect the individual but the wider family, and we wouldn’t be where we are now without the invaluable support of my mum, her partner, and our wider network.”

The couple have become regular fixtures at Ainslie Park, where staff are delighted to witness Duncan’s determination. When asked what advice they would give to others in similar situations, they responded: “It does get better. Keep your goals small. Keep motivated. And visit your local leisure centre. All the staff at Ainslie Park Leisure Centre have been so welcoming and supportive, and check in on us regularly to see how we are.”

“It’s the little wins that keep us going,” adds Stacey. “Only the other day, Duncan called out to show me how he was able to pick up the TV remote control with ease for the first time.”

While Duncan’s planned November golfing trip to the USA with friends from Silverknowes Golf Club remains on hold, the couple recently celebrated a significant milestone with his first visit to the driving range at the Braids – another victory on his road to recovery.

“Duncan’s story exemplifies the message we’re emphasising about the critical role physical activity plays in recovery,” said Ricky Singh, Gym Instructor at Edinburgh Leisure’s Ainslie Park Leisure Centre. “His determination shows what’s possible when stroke survivors have access to appropriate facilities and support.”

ENDS


About Edinburgh Leisure’s Get Active Card: The Get Active Card provides affordable access to leisure facilities for Edinburgh residents on low incomes. It offers off-peak access to gyms, swimming pools and fitness classes for £10 a month with no joining fee.
For more information, visit: www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/get-active

About Stroke Recovery: A haemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel bursts inside the brain, causing bleeding. Physical activity plays a crucial role in recovery, helping rebuild strength, coordination, and independence.
For more information on stroke support, visit: www.chss.org.uk

Follow Duncan’s journey on Tik Tok – theroadtorecovery32

Edinburgh Leisure has expanded its commitment to inclusive fitness by launching a comprehensive new programme of gym sessions and exercise classes specifically designed for adults with additional support needs.

The new “Fit and Active” initiative offers a diverse range of weekly activities across two venues, with all sessions free to attend for cardholders. Classes include seated strength training, danceability sessions, gymability workouts, inclusive circuits, retro dance, and seated cardio options.

“We’re delighted to introduce these new classes that provide accessible fitness opportunities for adults with additional support needs,” said Sara Kemp, Community Development Officer (Equalities) at Edinburgh Leisure.

“Our goal is to ensure everyone in our community has the chance to stay active and healthy in a supportive, welcoming environment.”

The programme runs throughout the week at both Meadowbank Sport Centre and Leith Victoria Swim Centre, with sessions carefully scheduled to provide regular opportunities for participants. Activities range from traditional gym-based workouts to creative movement classes like danceability and retro dance.

Weekly Schedule:
• Monday: 1:1 gym sessions at both venues

• Tuesday: Four different classes at Meadowbank including seated strength, danceability, gymability, and inclusive circuits

• Wednesday: Danceability class at Leith Victoria

• Thursday: Gymability sessions at Leith Victoria

• Friday: Retro dance and seated cardio classes at Meadowbank

All sessions are included free of charge with a Fit and Active card. Interested participants can apply for their card by emailing fitandactive@edinburghleisure.co.uk.

The programme represents Edinburgh Leisure’s ongoing commitment to providing inclusive recreational opportunities for all members of the Edinburgh community, ensuring that fitness and wellbeing services are accessible to people of all abilities.

For more information about the Fit and Active programme or to apply for a membership card, contact Edinburgh Leisure at fitandactive@edinburghleisure.co.uk.

ENDS

Edinburgh Leisure invites brave young adventurers to join Emma, Fox, and Squirrel on an epic journey through the newly reimagined Tumbles Soft Play at Portobello, Edinburgh. The lucky adventurers will be among the first to discover the exciting new world that awaits within Explorer Island.

Ashliegh Murray, Manager at Tumbles at Portobello, said: “Our Explorer Island is a whole world of fun. An island where anything is possible, and adventure awaits! We’re looking to our customers to be part of the excitement when we reopen.

“Our new play frame will feature Emma, an adventurous redhead with a baseball cap and torch, alongside her trusty companions Fox and Squirrel. These young explorers are searching for brave new friends to join their quest for play and discovery.”

“We’re inviting parents and kids to unleash their creativity and to send us a photo of their little adventurer with a sandcastle they’ve built, (even if it’s with a little help from their friends, siblings or parents), and a short description explaining why their little adventurer should be part of this grand adventure. The Edinburgh Leisure team will select their favourite 15 explorers to join us at the exclusive reopening party, date and time still to be announced.”

As the latest of Edinburgh Leisure’s three soft plays to receive a makeover, Tumbles at Portobello is undergoing an exciting transformation. The renovations include:
• Interactive elements in the baby and toddler zones
• Reconfigured layout for enhanced play experiences
• Upgraded versions of current favourite features
• Extended café seating with fixed options to maximise space
• New flooring in the soft play and café area
• A refreshed reception area on the first floor
• Redecorated birthday party room for the return of celebration packages

How To Enter

• Send an email to marketingsupport@edinburghleisure.co.uk with:
• A photo of your little explorer, dressed for adventure, next to their sandcastle creation
• A brief explanation (300 words or less) of why they should join Emma, Fox, and Squirrel at the reopening party
• Child’s name and date of birth
• Parent/guardian contact number and email

All entries must be received by 5pm, Tuesday, 27th May 2025.

The Tumbles team will select 15 children from across age groups to be their special “star guests” at the grand reopening celebration, where they’ll join other young adventurers in being the first to explore the reimagined play space.

Edinburgh Leisure is a charity dedicated to creating opportunities for everyone to lead more active, healthy lives. They operate over 30 sports and leisure facilities throughout Edinburgh, including three soft play centres designed to inspire active play and imagination in children.

-Ends-

Terms and conditions apply:

Edinburgh Leisure will be selecting up to 15 children (aged 0 – 10 years) to join them for the launch of Tumbles on a date and time to be agreed. Edinburgh Leisure’s decision will be final.

The children chosen will be notified by Tuesday, 3rd June, at the latest.

• The chosen children will need to be available for a photo call at the launch party.
• As part of the prize, each child will receive a free 90-minute play session at Tumbles at the launch party. If the winner cannot make the date of the launch party, they will receive a voucher for a free soft play session at Tumbles (no cash alternative). If attending the launch party, each of the chosen children will receive a goody bag to take home.
• Siblings are welcome to attend and play in the soft play, if of the appropriate age, but will not be included in the photo-shoot and will not receive a goody bag.
• Edinburgh Leisure will be taking photos/film and/or gathering comments of your child as a record of the day and for promotional purposes. These images and comments may appear, for example, on our website, in email newsletters, on social media, or be sent out to media in news releases and/or used in our printed materials, including leaflets, posters.
• By accepting the invitation, parents/guardians consent to Edinburgh Leisure using images in video recordings and/or photographs for marketing purposes. If you prefer not to be filmed or photographed, please they need to inform a member of staff on the day.

Parents/guardians/carers understand that:
• The images will be held in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation.
• The images will be the copyright of Edinburgh Leisure
• That this permission is valid for 5 years, after which all images and the form will be deleted from Edinburgh Leisure’s library