WE'VE already got plenty of reasons to hit the gym, but now Bolton folk are about to have access to world class facilities.

This week I was lucky enough to be one of the first to try out the new health and fitness centre at Bolton Arena.

The plush facilities at the Arena are being officially opened today.

And while staff were busy making last minute preparations for Saturday's opening, I was given a sneak preview of what's on offer.

As you might expect, it has a superbly-equipped gym, a sprung-floor dance studio for exercise classes, a sauna, steam room and jacuzzi.

The Arena also boasts indoor courts for tennis and badminton and floodlit outdoor tennis courts and multi-use games area.

And there's a running track which is to become home to Horwich RMI Harriers and Athletics Club -- I couldn't resist trying this out.

There was a nip in the air as I jogged over to the running track, and a slight breeze -- perfect running weather.

Of course, at its highest level, track running is only for those who really want to push themselves in a competitive environment.

The gym, on the other hand, really does have something to offer everybody.

You'll find everything you would expect to find in a swanky health and fitness club, from the latest equipment to friendly and helpful instructors to show you how to use it.

All new members get a free fitness induction and personal exercise programmes.

As a shortie, I'm only 5ft 2", I noticed that all of the equipment was neat and compact and I could actually see over it from one end of the room to the other.

This made a pleasant change and I found it less intimidating than being surrounded by 6ft tall metal structures.

And despite its hi-tech appearance the equipment is simple to use and to set and modify -- although this does rule out the "Could you show me how to adjust this?" chat-up line.

Female readers will know what I'm talking about even if they've never been inside a gym!

My favourite equipment was the versa climb, pictured bottom right, which is the ultimate fitness and full-body conditioner.

And I liked the stair climber which has revolving stairs.

I hadn't come across this piece of equipment before but it's easy to use and provides a really good lower body workout.

The gym is light and airy courtesy of the huge windows that span the length of the room and give a great view of the track and outdoor areas.

There is only one exercise studio but this is a good size and there are a variety of exercise classes ranging from Pilates to Reebok Power Cycle lined up from the week commencing Monday 23 April.

Paul Culshaw, assistant marketing manager, said: "The state of the art gym equipment and facilities are cutting edge -- but this is something everyone can enjoy.

"You don't have to be a member and there are concessions for juniors, the over-65s, students and the unemployed."

Membership fees are reasonable but if you use the gym less than twice a week you would be better off taking advantage of the equally sensible pay as you play rates that mean everyone can make use of this excellent addition to Bolton's fitness venues.

And bosses at the prestigious all-round sporting facility, think the Arena will have wide-ranging benefits to the town as a whole.

Paul Culshaw said: "It's a first class facility. As well as hosting the Badminton competition during the Commonwealth Games, the Davis Cup will be held here later this year."

In terms of tennis venues it seems Bolton Arena is second only to Wimbledon in this country.

And as anyone who's ever been motivated to hit the tennis courts come Wimbledon will tell you, there's nothing like watching high level competition to stir your soul.

But with eight indoor tennis courts, locals will be able to enjoy playing all year round -- whatever their standard.

I was so impressed, I was rather disappointed I hadn't brought my tennis raquet to try out the courts as well.

Still that's just one good reason to go back for another look.

For more information about Bolton Arena telephone 01204-488100.

Access

The health and fitness suite club only opens today but has already attracted 1000 members.

There is a capacity of

It will be open every day from