The Yard Gym Otley

Member spotlight from Iain Alexander -

My story starts having played football for close to 32 years. A few years ago I started to get pain to the side of my knee. This meant I couldn’t play football and I lost any interest in exercise.

Around this time I moved to Otley, not knowing anyone at all! Amongst the stress of moving house and a busy work life I thought I would take time to focus on myself, increase my fitness and look for potentially a new hobby/activity now that football was a struggle after the physio recommended I strength train.

I was looking for somewhere local, and stumbled across the yard online

Being totally honest I have been a member of lots of different gyms from leisure centres to big commercial ones. All of which I had never been able to stick at. There was always something missing. Whether that was putting too much pressure on myself, too busy, or not feeling part of a community. Another factor was the timetables and ability to take classes before and after work. Whenever I did go I only ever did cardio on the treadmill.

when searching I was very open minded. I came across the Yard via Google and noticed this very cool space, an active social media and messaged on Instagram. Not thinking too much about it. Within 1 hour (or even less) Nikki messaged back, in a weird way like she had been a friend or someone I know really well! This completely relaxed me.

I signed up for a 1 week trial, attending a number of classes from lift to spin. What I loved was that the classes could fit around my schedule.
Within the classes the instructors were super friendly, keen to answer any questions, help with techniques but also not afraid to push you! The other members immediately introduced themselves, I then shared that I was new to the area and got into conversations about all sorts from the best food places, coffee shops and also sharing what running races I had coming up.

The Yard isn’t a posers gym, there are no egos, I didn’t feel self conscious. I felt accepted, and part of a community.

My knee pain and lack of direction have been solved. I can squat and lunge, plus have so much more confidence in the gym.

10/10 recommend the yard gym
Iain

Jumping right onto that trend ❤️

These are the faces of 3 very happy and proud people.

Yesterday’s back yard ultra was an absolute roaring success. We were all so proud and amazed of everyone’s achievements.

I couldn’t have done this without the help of .pt and , who both formed an integral part of yesterday.

Not only these two, but also the decorations from , donations of baking, helpers in the kitchen, raffle prizes (still to be drawn so not too late to purchase) sponsorship and crowd support. And obviously big thanks to my husband who has to provide me not only with emotional support in the run up to events but also practical help on the day, every time
💙

Big congratulations to for being overall winner. This felt very special to me - everyone that knows Hayley , knows her for her running talents. But in amongst that you have to stop and admire that she’s also a mum to 3 small children, who wanted her attention in between each lap (whilst her mum rubbed her legs down as I looked on in envy 😆).

Eme musgrave came in second , joining us as a non member but also from a different town so she didn’t know anyone.

Followed by .carney.woods who casually vaped between laps in his recliner chair, supported by his mates from and looked as cool 😎 as a young guy can be.

Our little gym is such an amazing community of people that genuinely want the best for each other - and that’s all it’s about.

You’re not just a number here, I know everybody’s back story and how far they have come in their fitness journey. If my business ever became solely a numbers game , I wouldn’t want it. Because the people are what shapes us ❤️

On to bigger and better next year - already in the planning. Remember the yard back yard is where you saw it and experienced it first 🙌🏻

Reel of yesterday is in the making for you all to feast your eyes on.
❤️

🏃‍♂️ The Back Yard Yard Ultra is almost here! 🏃‍♀️💙

Are you ready to test your limits while supporting an incredible cause? Join us for a day of running, community and fundraising in aid of The Sarah Jackson Community Wish.

Whether you’re taking on 3km, 5km or 7km every hour, cheering from the sidelines, or simply popping by to support, we’d love to see you there!

🕡 Event Schedule
• 6:30–6:45am – Arrival
• 6:45am – Route briefing
• 6:55am – Final preparations
• 7:00am – First lap begins
• ⏰ A new lap starts every hour

🍴 Food and drinks will be available for all runners throughout the day, and spectators can enjoy food on offer too!

📋 Important: All runners must complete a PARQ form before taking part. Forms can be completed at The Yard Gym from Friday morning, or on Saturday morning (please arrive with plenty of time before your first lap).

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Meet Diane

Diane joined us in our early days knowing that she had to have 2 knee surgeries and strengthening her legs was advised for the best outcome.

Those knee surgeries happened , and weren’t easy breezy. But guess what? Both of her knees are now fully functional- she has started using the bike for full rotation , and loading the Legpress for full range of the joint.

Diane (and Louise) are both integral parts of our gym community - giving advice for all things supplemental from ivy house . Members are even entitled to a discount 🤩.

We love to see Diane’s movement has improved tenfold with regular attendance to our lift classes ❤️