The Versaclimber is a very popular piece of equipment and one that regularly makes the headlines in the regional and national press. To discover what has been happening in the world of 'VersaClimbing' and get some helpful tips for your health and fitness program please read the news section below.
 

THINGS ARE LOOKING EVEN BETTER FOR 
SPORTS INJURIES

Versaclimber UK has announced the launch of its latest new look model – the redesigned Sportsmedical climbing and stepping machine.

Used for rehabilitative training by the UK’s leading therapists and exercise physiologists to treat sportspeople recovering from injury, the new look Sportsmedical model now incorporates sleek black frame styling and a state-of-the art Polar compatible console.

The machine has been upgraded to bring it into line with the new look Versaclimber Club and Sport models, which were launched to the industry at last year’s LIW event.

The redesigned Versaclimber Sportsmedical model still incorporates the unique three level rehabilitation system, which is designed to cater for all types of sporting injury, enabling the user to exercise and isolate limbs and sections of the torso as they see fit. Although the machine is still true to its main purpose of rehabilitation therapy, its new look will make it feel at home in any modern gym. 

Its new user-friendly console now incorporates specialised volume controlled voice instruction.

The console also provides interactive motivational messages and display information including climbing speed, length of each stride, a timer, race programme and a total distance climbed function. Additionally, the console also includes a Polar compatible heart rate monitor as standard – an essential tool for recovering athletes and sportspeople.

“The Sportsmedical model has always been a leader in its field and the new console of the redesigned model will make using the machine a more interactive and rewarding experience for its users,” explains Neil Kelford, managing director of Versaclimber UK.

“Although the machine’s primary role is to provide essential rehabilitation therapy, we are aware of the fact that it is being used in some very style-conscious gyms, where visual presentation is an important factor. The new design will ensure that the Sportsmedical remains an obvious choice for gym owners and healthcare consultants.”

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One of world’s finest freedivers is using the Versaclimber as part of his training programme in preparation for his most amazing challenge yet – to establish a world record in all six of the freediving disciplines, beneath both Arctic & Antarctic ice.

Daros Gray has announced that he is training with the Versaclimber as he believes that its ability to deliver a tough aerobic workout will help to increase his stamina and fitness levels. This in turn, will help him to maintain his enormous lung capacity of 6.5 litres.

Daros and his world-renowned freediving team, which includes the son of legendary freediver, Jacques Mayol, will travel to the Lofoten Islands in Norway and Rothera in the Antarctic Peninsula to establish the freediving records.

In water temperatures of -2°c, Daros will attempt the following disciplines: 

• Constant weight – Descending to a depth of 50 metres with mask, fins & 
  weight-belt, without touching the depth-cable.
• Dynamic apnea – Swimming horizontally below the surface for 100 metres.
• Free immersion – Descending with the aid of the depth-cable, to a depth of 35 
  metres using no equipment.
• Variable weight – Descending using a 30kg weighted sled to a depth of 50 
  metres and then ascending with the use of fins.
• No-limits – Descending using an unlimited weight sled to a depth of 50 metres 
  and ascending with the use of an inflatable lift bag.
• Static apnea – Breath holding for five minutes, whilst submerged underwater.

Daros, who first used a Versaclimber some years ago in a gym in Edinburgh, says of the machine: “The Versaclimber is an essential fitness tool for freedivers. It helps to dramatically increase stamina levels and the longer stride facility is especially useful for building the calf and quad muscles, aiding the freedivers finning technique.”

“Its ability to increase fitness levels, which in turn helps to maintain and increase lung capacity, is key to freedivers – however, lung capacity and strength will only take you so far underwater, thereafter it’s all in your mind.”

Known as Polarfreedivers, Daros’ freediving team includes several members of a multiple Emmy Award winning wildlife production team, Adventure Productions, together with one of the most widely published photographers in the world, Greg Johnston, and Jean Jacques Mayol.

The funding for the pioneering challenge is being sought by leading sponsorship manager, Dougal Christie. Daros Gray and his team are also seeking sponsorship from interested parties for the Arctic & Antarctic freedives.

The team will undertake their Arctic freedive in September 2005 and their Antarctic freedive in March 2006.

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Versaclimber UK will be exhibiting its wide range of climbing and stepping machines on stand 23A at Fitness Expo 2004, to be held at Earls Court, London, from 14 –16 May.

Situated in the Combat and Martial Arts section of the health, diet and fitness event, Versaclimber UK will be displaying two models from its range of machines designed for use in the home and gym.

Visitors to the stand will be able to try out the state-of-the-art Versaclimber Club model, which is suitable for everybody’s exercise programme, from beginners to actual athletes. This machine benefits from a Polar-compatible interactive console, which includes voice instruction, motivational messages, an easy to read display and a choice of workout settings for all users.

The stand will also offer visitors the chance to try out one of Versaclimber UK’s reconditioned models, offering even more users the opportunity to access one of the most widely used pieces of equipment in today’s fitness market.

Tickets for the Fitness Expo event will be £12 on the day or £10 if booked in advance by calling 0871 230 2200.

For more information on the event, please visit www.fitnessexpo.co.uk

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Jordan Grand Prix has been supplied with a Versaclimber Sport Model for a trial period. The machine will be used to help Jordan’s drivers and team members achieve peak fitness for the start of what promises to be an excellent Grand Prix season for the team.

Supplied by Versaclimber UK, the machine will be improving the strength, endurance and cardiovascular fitness of the team’s drivers. 

Chief physiotherapist and health consultant of Jordan Grand Prix, Glenn Lindsay, will be utilising the Sport Model’s intelligent new console to set the drivers increasingly demanding fitness tests and challenges to help them remain focused on their goals for the 2004 season. 

The machine will be located at the team’s Silverstone-based human performance centre, and used by all Jordan Grand Prix employees under Glenn’s guidance. 

Glenn has used the Versaclimber a number of times during his career, he comments:

“The machine will help to develop the fitness of the entire team, but will be especially useful for helping the drivers achieve three key areas of fitness needed for Formula One.

“By helping our drivers to improve the muscular endurance of their upper bodies and increase their lower body strength, they will better handle the physical steering and braking pressures of Formula One racing. 

“The drivers will also improve cardiovascular fitness and lower their levels of body fat, which will improve heat dissipation during each race.”

The Versaclimber is just one small enhancement to the team’s resources as it gears up to improve upon Jordan’s previous season’s achievements in the 2004 Formula One World Championship.

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Sleek styling and a state-of-art console will greet visitors to Workout North’s 2004 event, as the totally new range of Versaclimber exercise machines are unleashed onto a waiting public.

On show will be the new Club and Sport models (upgraded versions of the former EZ and LX respectively) which both feature the range’s new sleek design of padded side rails and curved black metalwork. The Club model will appeal to the wider cross section of gym users and the Sport model is most suited to more intensive training.

Still the original stepping and climbing machine, the Versaclimber has benefited from the addition of a Polar-compatible interactive console. Voice instruction, motivational messages, an easy to read display and a choice of workout settings are also key features of this new console.

The console also features heart rate monitoring, exciting race mode training options, calorie counter and workout feedback – including climbing speed, length of each stride, time and total distance climbed.

Workout North regularly attracts key health and fitness industry figures resulting in quality sales leads. Neil Kelford, managing director of Versaclimber UK recognised this key factor when deciding where to exhibit the new range of machines this year, he comments:

“This is the Versaclimber’s third year at Workout North and we have been exhibiting here since it began. 

“We have always seen excellent sales from the show and feel that it’s a great platform for us to show off our new range. The show really helps to generate a buzz in the New Year as gyms and clubs start spending their budgets and we want our product range to be a part of that buzz.” 

For more information on the Versaclimber, just visit www.versaclimber.co.uk or why not visit stand 255 at the Workout North 2004 exhibition at the Reebok Stadium in Bolton on 3 – 4 February and try out the Versaclimber range for yourself.

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Versaclimber is celebrating its tenth year in the UK with one of its most prestigious orders yet.

Six brand new Versaclimber Club models can now be found in the England Cricket Board’s (ECB) new National Cricket Academy (NCA), which was officially opened on 14th November by Her Majesty The Queen.

The purpose-built academy, which is based at Loughborough University, has cost around £5million. An additional £1.5 million has been spent on kitting out the facility, which includes a fitness and conditioning suite where the Versaclimbers models are situated. The six Versaclimbers housed in the suite are configured in a Hi-tri format – where three of the machines are linked together in a circular format.

Configuring Versaclimbers in a Hi-Tri format can add a new dimension to group fitness training, enabling users to enjoy a light workout in a group environment or undertake a competitive team work out. More importantly, however, linking three Versaclimber models is an effective use of floor space, as they will operate perfectly in a space that can normally only be used for one or two other pieces of fitness equipment.

The NCA will be used by the national cricket team, as well as the  U19, U17 and U15 squad, national women’s team, coaches and county players for both training and rehabilitation purposes.

The NCA will be used by the Test and ODI cricket teams, the National Academy squad, as well as the U19, U17 and U15 squads, national women’s team, coaches and county players for both training and rehabilitation purposes.

Richard Smith, ECB NCA Sports Scientist, has been responsible for kitting out the Academy’s fitness and conditioning centre. He said: “Having the Versaclimber here will be brilliant as it adds a new dimension to non-weight bearing training and rehab”

Currently, around 55% of the England cricket squad consists of players who trained at the National Academy and this figure is expected to increase to 90% with the opening of the new state-of-the-art facility. 

The England cricket team is among just a few of the UK’s sports stars and celebrities that have discovered the Versaclimber since Managing Director Neil Kelford introduced it to the UK 10 years ago. Fellow Versaclimber enthusiasts include Olympic gold medallist Daley Thompson and Ranulph Fiennes – ‘the world’s greatest living explorer’.

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With a little help from his Versaclimber, Sir Ranulph Fiennes Bt OBE completed seven marathons in seven continents in seven days – consecutively!

Sir Ranulph (59) is underwent an emergency double heart by-pass operation following a heart attack he suffered on 7th June earlier this year. Despite this dramatic health scare, Sir Ranulph used his Versaclimber to combine his rehabilitation programme with training for his recent adventure.

Under doctors’ orders sir Ranulph uses his Versaclimber fitness machine at his home three times a week for 45-minute training sessions. The Polar compatibility of the Versaclimber console proved crucial in Sir Ranulph’s decision to use the machine in his rehabilitation and training programme.

He explained: “I was not allowed to undertake heavy training for two months after the heart attack so I needed a machine I could use to regain my fitness but at the same time monitor my heart rate.

“My cardiologist advised me it would be harmful to exceed 130bpm while training, so it was crucial that I used an exercise machine, like the Versaclimber, with a heart rate monitor.”

The machine provides a total body workout, which enabled Sir Ranulph to develop superior upper body and upper leg strength, which was vital for the cross-terrain marathon challenge. Sir Ranulph ran full marathons over a mix of terrains and in a variety of different environments from the sweltering heat of Singapore to the sub-zero temperatures of Antarctica. 

BBC News followed Sir Ranulph during his challenge and will soon be producing a documentary of the gruelling race.

The Versaclimber was also the exercise machine of Sir Ranulph’s choice when he trained for, and completed, the toughest endurance race in the world – the 1998 Discovery Channel Eco-Challenge.

He has also led more than 30 expeditions including: 

• The first ever polar circumnavigation of Earth 
• The discovery of the lost Arabian city of Ubar 
• The first ever hovercraft ascent of the longest river in the world 
• The first crossing of Antarctica and the Arctic Ocean 
• The first unsupported crossing of the Antarctic Continent 

In 1993 the Queen awarded Sir Ranulph the OBE for human endeavour and charitable services, his expeditions have, to date, raised over £5 million for charity.

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Kid power is soon to hit the gym in the shape of a brand new range of fitness equipment, designed specifically for seven to 15 year-olds, thanks to Physique.

Physique PTE is the first fitness equipment supplier in the UK to now stock the exclusive Precept Active8 range – a fun fitness solution for children. 

Already popular in the United States, Physique now hopes the Active8 range will catch on in local authorities and organisations concerned with children’s fitness throughout the UK.

The range comprises nine pieces of resistance equipment that make up the Hoist KL Circuit and nine Instyle Junior aerobikes. The system uses only compound exercises to reduce the stress on individual muscles and joints, so there is no risk of injury to the child. 

Overall, the system is designed to make exercise fun for children.

The Precept Active8 range is now available through Physique’s network of showrooms, which includes Rowley Regis in the West Midlands and Colne in Lancashire. 

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Professional record breaker and Versaclimber enthusiast Paddy Doyle is to complete a cross country 25-mile hill endurance trail in the hope of becoming the World’s Fittest Man.

Paddy holds 123 World and endurance records and has 31 entries and re-entries in the Guinness Book of Records. He has been training to become the Worlds Fittest Man for seven years. 

Last year Paddy set a Guinness World Record on the Versaclimber, live on ITV1’s This Morning programme, when he climbed for one hour on the Versaclimber wearing a 40lb backpack. Sadly the record was broken recently by fellow Versaclimber enthusiast Neil Rhodes.

The Versaclimber is an integral part of Paddy’s training for the title, he commented: “The Versaclimber is a very tough and challenging workout. I’ve done a couple of Versaclimber challenges and am definitely keen to do more and break some of the existing records.

“I highly rate the machine and would recommend it to any athlete who’s training for an endurance race. It’s a great piece of kit.” He added.

The judging criteria for the World’s Fittest Man is based on how many world records and endurance challenges you have attempted and under how many different disciplines they cover. You have to prove your skill in strength, speed, stamina and flexibility in different sporting fields and therefore cannot win by holding climbing records alone.

To date the title of ‘World’s Fittest Man’ has only been awarded to American’s. However, Paddy is confident that his background of World Records will stand him in good stead to be the next title holder. He currently holds records for push-ups, squat thrusts, weight lifting, boxing, martial arts. 

Officials from the competition will be at the cross country event in the Peak District on 8th November to verify and present Paddy with his certificate and trophy.

Paddy first started competing in endurance events in 1987 after he picked up a copy of the Guinness Book of Records and spotted a Chinese athlete held a couple of records for press ups and he thought he could break it. He assembled a crowd at his local gym, set a timer for four-and-a-half hours and did press ups with a 50lb steel plate on his back. He smashed the previous record with 4,100 press ups – an average of 15 per minute – and has never looked back since.

For further information about Paddy Doyle and his attempt to be the World’s Fittest Man log onto www.stamina4life.co.uk.

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Versaclimber UK Ltd has unveiled a sleek new range of Versaclimber exercise machines. The new models were unveiled at LIW 2003 (16 - 18th September).

The Club and Sport (formerly known as the EZ and LX respectively), have been updated and given a fresh new look for 2003. They are still the original climbing and stepping exercise machines, however the new Versaclimber Club and Sport models now feature curved black metalwork, padded side rails and a state-of-the-art console.

Billed as ‘your new personal trainer’ the Polar compatible console features a sound chip which enables it to give specialised, volume-controlled voice instruction and feedback during a workout. Remarkably, the technology behind the new Versaclimber console means that voice instruction is available in virtually any language. The new console is also believed to be one of only a handful currently on the market that offer voice instruction.

Motivational messages also feature on the new console’s easy-to-read display, in addition to a calorie counter, climbing speed, the length of each climbing ‘stride’, a timer and the total distance climbed. Versaclimber’s original popular pre-set training programmes, ranging from beginner to advanced levels, still feature on the new console in addition to heart rate and race mode training options. 

The aim of helping users achieve their workout goals has been at the forefront of the new Versaclimber designs. To this end, the comfort factor and versatility of the machine is now increased with the addition of padded side rails. The side rails allow the machines to be used either as simple stair-steppers, or by using the climbing handles, users can undertake a total body workout - proving that the Versaclimber is the original 2-in-1 exercise machine.

Neil Kelford, Managing Director of Versaclimber UK, explained why the Versaclimber has been given a facelift: “Since its introduction to the UK market more than 10 years ago the Versaclimber has developed a huge following with gyms, health clubs, home users, the Armed Forces and personal trainers, however it had begun to look dated.

“It was time for a change. The machine still does exactly what it says on the label – provide a zero impact, total body workout - only now it gives users even more. The new console and the Club and Sport models’ sleek and up-to-date look will now make them a welcome addition in any gym, whether it’s a healthclub or home.”

For details about the new Versaclimber range visit the 'products' section on the website or contact Versaclimber UK on 0121 561 2771. 

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Fitness enthusiast, Neil Rhodes, 44, has set yet another new Guinness World Record on the Versaclimber just six months after recovering from a near fatal brain aneurysm. Neil obliterated the previous record set for the height climbed during 60 minutes of continuous climbing on the Versaclimber - the original climbing and stepping machine. (see news item on 12/08/03)

In 60 minutes, Neil climbed an amazing 7,231ft on the Versaclimber at Cannons Health Club in Yeovil - more than double the distance of the existing record. Even more astonishing, he completed the record climb with a 40lb pack on his back! 

The previous world record of 3,144ft was set in November 2002 by iron man Paddy Doyle on ITV’s This Morning programme. During Neil’s challenge he kept the crowds entertained by singing a few songs and marked passing the previous record time by being interviewed for local television.

Neil was rushed to hospital in February this year after he suffered a brain aneurysm while working out in the gym. He went through a seven-hour emergency life-saving operation, which involved Neil having a titanium plate inserted in his head.  Neil then recovered in hospital for two weeks and amazingly within five days of returning home was working out at the gym. 

Having previously completed the separate Versaclimber Everest challenge in just 3 hours, 23 minutes and 13 seconds, Neil is no stranger to working out. In fact, it was his level of fitness that helped him survive the operation. 

“I’ve beaten the Iron Man’s Versaclimber record and have now dubbed myself Titanium Man in honour of my life-saving surgery!” Neil announced.

“I could easily break the record again tomorrow. I kept my heart rate at 153 bpm throughout the challenge and even had something left in me for a burst of energy at the end. I’ll set my sights on another challenge now though.”

For further information about Versaclimber challenges and the current record times visit the 'Times' section on the website.

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Four teams from an Isle of Man fitness centre have climbed Mount Everest without even leaving the gym, and setting not one but two brand new records in the process. The teams completed the 29,028ft climb on a Versaclimber – the original climbing and stepping machine - on Sunday 13th July.

Sixteen personal trainers and gym members from the new Gym & Tonic Health & Therapy Centre in Douglas, put together four teams of four to attempt the challenge and mark the opening of the fitness centre as well as raise £2,000 for a local charity. 

Two male teams and two female teams completed the challenge in relay, with each team member climbing at 500ft intervals. The first men’s team finished in 2 hours, 23.54 minutes with the second team finishing exactly 20 minutes later in 2 hours, 43.54 minutes closely followed by the women’s teams who completed the climb in 2 hours 57.53 minutes and 3 hours 29.40 minutes respectively.

However, all the teams’ times are amazing considering that the only other Versaclimber record for climbing the height of Everest was set by a 12-man team, who took 5 hours, 22 minutes the complete the feat. The times set by Gym & Tonic’s teams will now be posted on the Versaclimber UK website’s leader board of times. 

Prior to the challenge, the teams did a lot of training and regularly took part in Sunday morning training sessions on the Versaclimber. Andrew Parker, manager of Gym & Tonic, knows how much training is required for this kind of challenge and organised it to encourage his members to train harder.

“I saw the existing 12-man Everest team record on the Versaclimber website and I was confident we could beat it. We all trained hard for the challenge and although it’s not an easy task it is easily measured and gets all the members involved,” commented Andrew.

“I came across the Versaclimber 15 years ago at my local gym and have been a fan ever since. In a way, I wish I had never discovered it as it is very addictive. That’s why I’ve got two in my gym now!”

The challenge was so popular this year that Andrew is now going to make it an annual event and hopefully get even more teams involved next year.

Together, the teams raised £2,000 for the local St Bridge’s Hospice, which is hoping to raise £2 million to fund its relocation. 

To find out more information about the Versaclimber machine and the challenges you can attempt log on to www.versaclimber.co.uk.

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A team of intrepid explorers, including former jockey Richard Dunwoody, has completed a race across the Arctic and raised £1,500 for charity with a little help from Versaclimber UK.

The Polar Race, claimed to be ‘probably the world’s toughest race’, challenged four teams to cross the Arctic and reach the magnetic North Pole in the quickest time. 

One of the teams, Polar Team - consisting of Richard Dunwoody, ex Army Commando Tony Martin and marketing man Mark Harris – was helped in its quest to complete the 360-mile race by the donation of a Versaclimber machine.

In preparation for the challenge, Polar Team undertook a gruelling eight-month training regime, which included regular Versaclimber sessions on the original climbing and stepping machine.

Unusually, much of the Polar Team’s training took place in Iceland’s freezer warehouse in Swindon, which is normally home to frozen vegetables and tubs of ice cream. The Verscalimber proved to be an ideal piece of training equipment, because not only did it take up a very small amount of floor space in their unusual surroundings, but it also gave the team a total body workout. The versatility of the Versaclimber meant that the team only needed to use one piece of equipment to do the job of two or three separate exercise machines.

After the team put the Versaclimber through its paces for eight months, it was auctioned off prior to the epic journey to help finance the race and swell the funds of the team’s chosen charity, the World Wildlife Fund. Bids for the machine came in thick in fast and ended with a member of a rival team snapping up the Versaclimber for £900. 

Polar Team finished the epic race in only 11 days and claimed second place. The Versaclimber is no stranger to being put through its paces by mountaineers and explorers, however, as it is also used by Sir Ranulph Fiennes, ‘the world’s greatest living explorer’, as part of his training regime.

Mark Harris commented: “The Versaclimber was the ideal fitness tool for our total body workout. If it’s good enough for Ranulph Fiennes to train on, it’s good enough for us!”

Unfortunately the team had to tackle the Polar Race without Mark who had to drop out before the start due to injury. However, despite this minor set back, and a close encounter with a Polar Bear during their mission, the team finished the race in second place and in good health.

Neil Kelford, Managing Director of Versaclimber UK, was delighted to help out the team with their training. He said: “The Versaclimber is recognised as one of the best pieces of training equipment for this type of challenge and it’s great to think it helped the team finished this punishing race.”

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The Versaclimber has been credited with saving the life of Neil Rhodes, a personal trainer from Yeovil.

Neil Rhodes (44), a regular user of the Versaclimber, recently suffered a life threatening aneurysm and had to undergo an emergency seven-hour operation. 

With a survival rate of only 20%, Neil and the consultant neurologist who performed the life-saving operation believe that his high level of fitness saved his life. 

Neil said, “I reckon, as I workout on a Versaclimber that makes the machine a lifesaver.”

It was while exercising that Neil suffered the aneurysm – effectively a brain haemorrhage. He was rushed to hospital where he remained for two weeks. However, within four days of returning home Neil was back at the gym, with his doctor’s full approval, and exercising on the Versaclimber - albeit at a much more relaxed pace than he was previously used to.

Only last year, in November, Neil set a brand new Guinness World Record for climbing the height of Everest (29,028 ft) on the Versaclimber. He completed the record-breaking feat in only 3 hours, 23 minutes and 13 seconds, however only three months later a fellow Versaclimber enthusiast snatched the record from him. Now, only weeks into his recovery Neil already has plans to reclaim the title.

Neil’s determination and recovery is made all the more amazing when you consider that half of the people who survive an aneurysm are left with some sort of permanent effect or disability.

“My recovery seems to be going well, considering that most people would only just be leaving hospital. I seem to feel very tired, but it's to be expected when you consider what I've been through and the work I do. I have been very, very lucky and it has served to strengthen my resolve even further to stay fit and healthy,” he said.

Neil Kelford, Managing Director of Versaclimber UK, said: “I have known Neil for a number of years and his commitment to his own fitness and that of his clients has never ceased to astound me. After hearing a story like this, there has never been a better reason for going to the gym.” 

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Physique has launched a new gym equipment buying experience to businesses and private individuals in the Midlands.

Physique Training Equipment Plc is believed to be the only fitness equipment business of its kind in the UK to cater for both commercial and individual buyers. The Rowley Regis-based Midlands showroom is part of the Physique national network of ‘Cash and Carry’ fitness equipment showrooms and stores.

Brought to the Midlands by Managing Director Neil Kelford, Physique Midlands offers health clubs and individuals in the region, low cost, new and remanufactured branded fitness equipment including multi-gyms, free weights and a full range of cardiovascular equipment.

Commenting on the new venture Neil Kelford said: “The region was in need of a supplier with a wide range of good quality fitness equipment at value for money prices. As well as individuals, I expect the showroom to get a lot of interest from the public sector, including schools, fire stations and local authority gyms.

“Opening the showroom just off the M5 in Rowley Regis also means we’re in a great location to service the personal and commercial buyers across the whole of the Midlands and even further afield.”

The Physique Midlands showroom is one of a network of five showrooms based in Belfast, Glasgow, Lancashire and London selling either brand new or totally refurbished gym equipment. All equipment is manufactured and supplied to ISO 9002 standards with a full parts and service warranty.

For further information about the Physique Midlands showroom or to request a brochure please call 0121 561 2771.

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A former army Staff Sergeant is awaiting confirmation by Guinness that he has set a new world record for climbing the height of Mount Everest (29,028ft) on a Versaclimber exercise machine.

Freelance fitness instructor Kelvin Turner, from Redland in Bristol, set a new time of 2 hours, 57 minutes and 56.5 seconds for climbing the height of Mount Everest on the Versaclimber at the Livingwell Premier gym in Bristol on 19th February.

The existing world record time of 3 hours, 23 minutes and 13 seconds was only set in November last year, however Kelvin has now knocked more than 25 minutes off the time. 

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Former army Staff Sergeant, Kelvin Turner from Redland in Bristol, is to face his toughest challenge yet – climbing Mount Everest on Wednesday 19 February. 

Kelvin, now a freelance fitness instructor, will be attempting to set a brand new world record by climbing the height of Mount Everest (29,028ft) on a Versaclimber exercise machine at the Livingwell gym in Bristol.

The fastest time for climbing the height of Everest on a Versaclimber, which is a unique vertical climbing and stepping machine, stands at three hours, 23 minutes and 13 seconds – an unofficial record set in November 2002 and currently awaiting confirmation by the Guinness Book of World Records.

The record attempt is in aid of Whizz-Kidz, a national disabled children’s charity supported by Livingwell. Gym members are being invited to pay £1 and guess Kelvin’s time to complete the ultimate Versaclimber challenge. Prizes for the closest guesses include a night for two in a Hilton Hotel, one month’s free membership to the gym and many other prizes donated by local businesses.

Kelvin discovered the Versaclimber eight years ago and is now training on it five times a week, confident he can beat the unofficial record. He’s no stranger to a challenge. As well as being in the army for 21 years, he has completed numerous marathons and running events, including the Leadville Trial 100 in Colorado where he ran 100 miles in 23 hours and 58 minutes!

He said: “I needed a new challenge now I’ve retired from running and the Versaclimber seemed ideal.”

Kelvin added: “The Versaclimber is the best CV machine available. It’s the only machine to get your heart rate up to the same level as running. Now, I don’t train on any other machines. The Versaclimber gives me a great workout on its own.”

Kelvin starts his challenge at 5pm in the brasserrie at Livingwell. He will be hooked up to heart rate monitors so everyone can check his heart beat but not his time – that will only be revealed when he finishes. With the attempt taking place at peak time Kelvin is confident he can break the record and raise £500 for charity.

“I’ve clocked up 20,000ft in training which I found fairly easy so I’m hopeful to break the record and finish in around three hours, 10 minutes,” said Kelvin.

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Versaclimber UK is helping former jockey, Richard Dunwoody MBE, and Pans People star Babs Powell get in shape for the ultimate challenge – the Polar Race.

Versaclimber UK has given the stars a Versaclimber, a unique climbing and stepping exercise machine, to help them and their team, which is being led by ex Army Commando Tony Martin, get in shape for the race taking place in April 2003. 

The Arctic challenge will see the Polarteam, which also includes Jim Shekhdar - the first person to row across the Pacific Ocean single-handedly, walk across the Arctic Pole from Resolute Bay on the south side to the former North West Territories of Canada in April 2003.

The Versaclimber is one of the best pieces of exercise equipment to simulate the extreme physical conditions that the team will have to endure during the race. 
To further acclimatise to the conditions of the North Pole, the team is doing its training in temperatures of minus 25 at Iceland’s state-of-the-art cold store in Swindon, which is usually home to bags of frozen peas and tubs of ice cream. 

After completing what’s ‘probably the world’s toughest race’, in which the team will face the very real dangers of Polar bears, bitter winds and open water, the Versaclimber will be auctioned off by the Polarteam and the money donated to charity.

Also used by the ‘World’s Greatest Living Explorer, Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Neil Kelford, Managing Director of Versaclimber UK, is confident that the Versaclimber will meet all the Polarteam’s training needs and help prepare them for the gruelling challenge ahead. 

Neil commented: “The Versaclimber is recognised to be one of the best pieces of training equipment for this type of challenge. The team is going to have a very hard time ahead of them and will be pushing their bodies to the limit. 

“It’s great to think that the team will be using the Versaclimber to help them achieve one of the most difficult journeys in the world.” 

Ends.

Versaclimber UK is helping former jockey, Richard Dunwoody MBE, and Pans People star Babs Powell get in shape for the ultimate challenge – the Polar Race.

Versaclimber UK has given the stars a Versaclimber, a unique climbing and stepping exercise machine, to help them and their team, which is being led by ex Army Commando Tony Martin, get in shape for the race taking place in April 2003. 

The Arctic challenge will see the Polarteam, which also includes Jim Shekhdar - the first person to row across the Pacific Ocean single-handedly, walk across the Arctic Pole from Resolute Bay on the south side to the former North West Territories of Canada in April 2003.

The Versaclimber is one of the best pieces of exercise equipment to simulate the extreme physical conditions that the team will have to endure during the race. 
To further acclimatise to the conditions of the North Pole, the team is doing its training in temperatures of minus 25 at Iceland’s state-of-the-art cold store in Swindon, which is usually home to bags of frozen peas and tubs of ice cream. 

After completing what’s ‘probably the world’s toughest race’, in which the team will face the very real dangers of Polar bears, bitter winds and open water, the Versaclimber will be auctioned off by the Polarteam and the money donated to charity.

Also used by the ‘World’s Greatest Living Explorer, Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Neil Kelford, Managing Director of Versaclimber UK, is confident that the Versaclimber will meet all the Polarteam’s training needs and help prepare them for the gruelling challenge ahead. 

Neil commented: “The Versaclimber is recognised to be one of the best pieces of training equipment for this type of challenge. The team is going to have a very hard time ahead of them and will be pushing their bodies to the limit. 

“It’s great to think that the team will be using the Versaclimber to help them achieve one of the most difficult journeys in the world.” 

Ends.

Under the watchful eye of three adjudicators Neil Rhodes, a personal trainer from Yeovil, hopes to have set a brand new Guinness World Record for climbing the height of Everest (29,028 feet) on a Versaclimber exercise machine.

He set a time of 3 hours, 23 minutes and 13 seconds, knocking 11 minutes and 42.26 seconds off the existing Versaclimber record which was set in February earlier this year. Neil is now awaiting confirmation from Guinness as to whether he now holds the World Record for climbing 29,028 feet in the fastest time on a Versaclimber.

The amazing feat was performed at the Workout North Exhibition at Bolton’s Reebok stadium on Tuesday 26th November. During the climb Neil covered an average distance of 144 feet per minute, which equates to him taking a total of 29,263 vertical steps. 

Despite having sores on his feet from where the sweat had dripped into his socks during the challenge, Neil was delighted with his finishing time. Sustained throughout the record attempt every 20 minutes with High 5 complex carbohydrate drinks, Neil weighed in at 3lbs (1.5kg) less in weight than before he began the gruelling record attempt.

Neil said: “To get through the climb I set myself targets, such as having a drink or changing the position of my hands every 20 minutes. Although small, the targets kept me focused, which was a big help especially when I got to the half way point.”

The Everest challenge is Neil’s third Versaclimber record which he eventually hopes to have recognised by Guinness. “The Versaclimber challenges have provided me with real goals to aim for in both mine and my clients’ training programmes. I’m already looking forward to the challenges of other Versaclimber enthusiasts who want to take me on,” he added.

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Erdington strongman, Paddy Doyle (38) has added yet another record to his total of 114 of the toughest strength, speed and stamina regional, national, European and World records he currently holds. 

The new record was set live on ITV 1’s This Morning programme recently. The record involved Paddy climbing at total 3,144 feet in one hour, wearing a 40lb back pack, on the Versaclimber – a unique climbing and stepping exercise machine. To ensure there was no dispute over the weight Paddy actually carried an extra 1lb in his backpack. 

Paddy, who is soon to launch his autobiography ‘Iron Man’, was invited by This Morning to undertake a new Guinness World Record to publicise his new book.  With only two days notice and no training Paddy chose the Versaclimber record.

“I’ve always had my eye on a Versaclimber record and as I’ve got a few mountain challenges coming up over the next 12 months I thought doing the challenge would be good practice for me. The machine is also is pretty demanding,” explained Paddy, who is a former paratrooper and RAF reserve regiment soldier. 

Despite the 90 degree heat under the studio lights, Paddy climbed continuously for one hour. Guinness World Record rules state that during a record attempt you are not allowed to get off the Versaclimber or stop climbing at any point. 

“It was very difficult and, towards the end, painful,” said Paddy. “By the 40th minute my calves had seized up, I had pins and needles in my hands and my backpack had caused friction burns on my shoulders and spine where it had been rubbing. The heat from the lights really made me sweat and the sores became more and more painful as the salty sweat ran into them.” 

Unfortunately for Paddy his sores also turned septic and after only one day’s full rest he had to compete for his Black Belt 3rd Dan in freestyle martial arts. 

Despite the pain of the Versaclimber challenge, Paddy cites his non-stop Kumite boxing record as the hardest one he has ever done. This record involved him undertaking 5,962 full contact Kumite boxing rounds. 

Other records which Paddy holds include the World Record for most press-ups in a year, for which he managed to do more than one a half million (1,500,230 to be exact!), which is an average of 4,000 a day. He also holds numerous records for backpack running, sit-ups, squat thrusts, burpees and log carrying to name but a few. 

“I tell myself that I’ve got the record and make myself believe I’ve that already done it before I embark on any challenge. I then just block everything out and go for it,” said Paddy. 

In between breaking and setting new endurance records and also being the World Fitness Endurance Champion Paddy owns and runs Staminas Boxing and Martial Arts Centre in Erdingham, Birmingham. 

He added: “I enjoy breaking and setting new records and there are plenty more endurance events record out there to be broken. I believe an endurance athlete is like a good red wine – you just get better with age.” 

Ends.

Neil Rhodes (44), a personal trainer from Yeovil, hopes to climb into the Guinness Book of World Records on the Versaclimber stand at the Workout North show on Tuesday 26th November. On the day, he also hopes to raise money for the BBC Children in Need appeal.

Neil will attempt to climb the height of Everest (29,028 ft) on the unique Versaclimber climbing machine in a time of less than 4:58.34, to beat the record set in March earlier this year by a prison PE instructor.

The Guinness World Record rules state that the record attempt must be done in a public place and Neil must climb continuously without using the Versaclimber’s side rails for support or get off the machine at any time during the record attempt. Two independent verifiers will also be on hand throughout the record attempt to witness that Neil adheres to the rules. 

Neil already holds two British Versaclimber records for the 1,000ft sprint and the vertical mile. “The first 10 minutes on the Versaclimber are always the hardest but after that it gets easier,” he said. 

“It’s a fabulous machine for working every bit of your body and it really tests your strength and endurance. I’m training hard and am confident that I will add a World Record to my British total.”

“The Versaclimber challenges have provided me with real goals to aim for in both mine and my clients’ training programmes. I’m already looking forward to the challenges of other Versaclimber enthusiasts who want to take me on.”

The World Record attempt begins at 11.00am on Versaclimber UK’s stand – No.170 – at the Workout North Show, being held at Bolton’s Reebok Stadium on 26th - 27th November. 

Ends.
 

There are two chances to see the full range of Versaclimber equipment in action this November at this year’s PPP healthcare British Indoor Rowing Championship (BIRC) and the Work out North 2002 exhibition.

First off is BIRC, being held on 17th at the Birmingham Indoor Arena, where Versaclimber UK will be sharing its exhibition stand with Physique - the UK’s leading independent supplier of new and re-manufactured fitness equipment. Later in the month, on 26th and 27th November, Versaclimber UK will at WorkOut North 2002, being held at the Reebok Stadium in Bolton. 

Alongside the ever-popular IFI-accredited Sportsmed, Versaclimber EZ and 108c models, Versaclimber UK will be showcasing its brand new Versapulley at both exhibitions. The Versapulley is the industry’s first dual CV and strength trainer suitable for both the fitness and rehab market, launched earlier this year Versaclimber UK.

Revolutionary and totally different to Versaclimber's original step and climb system - a favourite of gym members since 1996, the new Versapulley uses a gravity-free resistance system making it the first ever high-low multi-function pulley system in the world.

Looking forward to both shows Neil Kelford, Managing Director of Versaclimber UK, commented: “Although they’re both relatively new, BIRC and Work Out North are fast becoming the key fitness shows outside London.  It’s an excellent opportunity for many people to test out a huge range of quality sports, fitness and rehab equipment without having to tackle the M25.”

For more details visit the website at www.versaclimber.co.uk or contact Versaclimber UK on (0121) 561 2771.

Ends.

Individual or group Versaclimber challenges make an excellent fundraising event. 

Following Stevie Begen’s successful attempt to break the Guinness World Record of climbing the height of Mt. Everest earlier this year, Versaclimber UK has been inundated with enquiries from people who want to attempt a challenge.

Stevie Begen raised more than £4,000 for charity when he climbed the height of Mt Everest. For some challenge ideas go to the website’s home page and download the ‘Ten Towers’ and ‘Ten Peaks’ training logs. 

Whether you plan to climb Mt. Everest or Nelson’s Column, it’s important to follow the rules. Versaclimber UK’s rules for any individual or group undertaking a Versaclimber challenge state that:

• You must climb continuously. 
• You cannot get off the machine at any time during the challenge
• You must not use the side rails to support your body weight. 
• The end time or distance must be verified by an independent person.
• Above all, the emphasis on any Versaclimber challenge is based on your honesty.

Rules and regulations surrounding a Guinness World Record attempt are much stricter; for details of these email info@versaclimber.co.uk.

Ends.

Novasol Services has launched a fitness equipment showroom, trading as Physique and is believed to be the first of its kind in the West Midlands to cater for both the personal user and commercial buyer.

Based in Rowley Regis, Birmingham, the 40 x 30 ft showroom has been stocked by Physique, the largest independent manufacturer and supplier of new and remanufactured fitness equipment in the United Kingdom. It now joins Physique’s network of showrooms throughout the UK.

Open to the public from Monday to Friday, The Physique showroom is kitted out with a huge range of products suitable for both gym and home use – including multi-gyms, cardiovascular equipment, the full Versaclimber product range, SportArt and Greenmaster cardiovascular products, free weights and other equipment used by health and fitness enthusiasts.

The equipment on display is both re-manufactured and brand new and is supplied to ISO 9002 certified quality in the style and colour required by the customer with a full parts and service warranty. 

"I believe there is certainly a place in the West Midlands fitness market for a dedicated showroom which services the commercial buyer as well as the individual purchaser. The combination of the right location, the right range of products at the right price will prove to be successful," explained Neil Kelford, Managing Director of Novasol Services.

Novasol Services has been trading successfully for 16 years, repairing, servicing and selling new and reconditioned equipment. The new showroom builds on the close working relationship Novasol has developed with Physique over 15 years.

For further details or a Physique showroom brochure contact Novasol Services on (0121) 561 2038.

Ends

NEW VERSAPULLEY ENTERS THE REHAB RING

Offering virtually 100% flexibility and adaptability for the user, the VersaPulley was launched to the UK rehabilitation and fitness market earlier this year by Versaclimber UK - distributor of the IFI accredited Versaclimber Sportsmed. 

The VersaPulley uses a revolutionary, gravity-free resistance system called MV² Technology - making it the industry’s first ever high-low multi-function pulley system.

The MV² system bridges the gap between conventional exercise machines by combining variable speed and force over a range of motion which is also variable. This technology allows the Versapulley to increase the power of movement by developing the natural elastic stretch reflex component of muscle and tendon.

A flywheel, rather than conventional weight methods such as plate loading or hydraulics, provides resistance. The user imparts energy to the flywheel on the pull stroke (compliant) and depletes the imparted energy on the pullback stroke (eccentric).

Put simply, if you pull then the VersaPulley pulls back! 

Using this technology means resistance is automatically decreased as muscles fatigue thus working the user to a maximum. Because the cycle of exercise reflects the ability of the user and the exercise required by the user, it’s perfect for many rehabilitation programmes.

The design of the machine, combined with MV² resistance, provides unlimited, multi-joint and multi-plane movement.  It also enables the user to replicate simple to complex training movements including rotational, lifting and chopping motions, which use more muscle, promote joint stabilisation and neuromuscular involvement. Because of this, the VersaPulley can also be used as an aid to daily activities such as walking, stepping, lifting and pulling.

The VersaPulley is also the only exercise machine that can be used effectively by two people simultaneously. Because the compliant resistance is fully accommodating, two people can exercise to their individual levels at the same time giving exactly the same workout achievable if they were on separate machines.

“Heartrate Incorporated launched the VersaPulley in the US last year and it has already proved itself popular in the rehabilitation market,” said Neil Kelford Managing Director of Versaclimber UK.

Ends

Versaclimber UK has launched the industry's first high-low multi-function pulley system – the Versapulley - combining cardiovascular and strength training at the same time. 

The Versapulley is totally different to Versaclimber's original step and climb system - a favourite of gym members since 1996. 

It uses a revolutionary, gravity-free resistance system called MV² that doesn't rely on weights, plate loading, hydraulics, air resistance, rubber band, impeller, magnetic or electrical resistance.

Instead, MV² technology utilises a flywheel mechanism to store energy the user provides through the 'concentric contraction' of a central 'cone'.  Energy is then released through 'eccentric contraction'. Using this technology means resistance is automatically decreased as muscles fatigue – working the athlete to a maximum but reducing the risk of injury to an absolute minimum.

The cycle of exercise can be up to five times faster than that achievable on a weights machine. And because it reflects the ability of the user, and the exercise required by the user, it’s perfect for all ranges of athletes from the raw novice to elite athlete. It is also possibly the most versatile piece of equipment in the industry for rehabilitation, offering virtually 100% flexibility and adaptability for the user.

One or two people can use the Versapulley simultaneously. The user can exert any force, at variable speeds, up to their personal maximum effort (4 to 400 pounds) over the entire range of motion (from 1 inch to 10 feet) from the first to the last rep. This resistance can be used at conventional slow repetition speeds or at high repetition speeds to combine strength and power in one single workout.

"MV² technology is one of the biggest developments in fitness equipment for a number of years – this is the principle behind the Versapulley and it is unique,” said Neil Kelford, Managing Director of Versaclimber UK. 

 “The Versapulley is the most versatile and most practical technology ever developed. It will challenge all traditional strength machines as it provides a complete, personalised, 100% compliant, user-defined exercise profile and that's better than any machine currently in the market. 

"Launched in the US last year, the Versapulley has proved popular in fitness and rehabilitation markets. It is designed for sport specific training and is the ideal tool to challenge all athletes and help them achieve their performance goals.”

For more details visit the website at www.versaclimber.co.uk or contact Versaclimber UK on (0121) 561 2771.

Ends

George Young from Stamford Bridge makes being fit and 50 look easy. Fifty-one year old George recently climbed a total of 5,000ft in an amazing time of 25 minutes and six seconds on the Versaclimber.

The amazing feat was done at Courtney’s Gym in York and witnessed by Gym Instructor Colin Knight on 11 March 2002.  George began using the Versaclimber climbing and stepping machine only three months ago in training for a fell running competition. 

As well as the Versaclimber, George has also been using the gym’s rowing machine and exercise bike as part of his training. He estimates that over the three-month period he has climbed a total of 116,000ft – the equivalent of four times the height of Mount Everest, rowed 75 miles and cycled 3,000 miles.

Despite also managing to cover a  distance of 8,600ft in 60 minutes, George  still thinks there’s room for improvement.

He said: “The 5,000ft Versaclimber distance came from the need for a competitive challenge over the dark winter months. It began with Spinning classes at the gym and evolved from there. 

“I discovered that I love using the Versaclimber – perhaps because I love climbing uphill. I’m now hoping for a good season on the exercise bike in the gym.”

Ends

Two Scottish Prison Service PE Instructors have climbed their way into the Guinness Book of World Records a set a new World Record on the Versaclimber exercise machine.

The joint record holders, Stevie Begen (35) from East Kilbride and Barry Keenan (28) from Stirling, each climbed the height of Mount Everest (29,028 feet) in only 4:58.34, knocking an amazing 1:49.24 off the old record. 

The record-breaking climb took place on Saturday 30th March at The Marches Shopping Centre in Stirling and was ratified by Versaclimber UK’s Sales Manager, Claes Svensson. The record attempt raised more than £4,200 for charity.

The men both had very different approaches to the marathon climb. Stevie adopted a steady approach averaging 102.5 feet per minute while Barry initially went off quite hard and averaged 110.2 feet per minute. At 29,000 feet the men caught each other up and decided to finish the climb together and claim a joint record.

Despite drinking plenty of fluids and taking salt tablets, after four hours cramp got the better of Barry and he was forced to slow down and rest. Stevie also suffered from cramp in his thighs and a numb foot and at one stage had to rest every  1,000 feet.

Stevie said: “Versaclimber gave me a different set of handles to use during the record attempt which meant I didn’t get aching shoulders which I’d been suffering quite badly from in training. 

“Despite the cramp and numb foot, I felt great on the day. We’ve already started to think about what are next challenge is going to be.”

Stevie’s immediate challenge will be bagging £1,750 worth of coins, which were donated by spectators on the day. “Unfortunately, the bank won’t accept the cash unless it’s all counted and bagged – this looks like it could take a lot longer than climbing Everest,” said Stevie.

Ends

Three Scottish Prison Service Physical Education Instructors will be putting themselves through their paces in aid of charity and reaching for the heights of a Guinness World Record at The Marches in Stirling on Saturday 30 March.

Two of the men, Stevie Begen (35) from St Leonards in East Kilbride and Barry Keenan (28) from Stirling, each hope to climb the height of Mount Everest (29,028ft) on a Versaclimber total body exercise machine in less than five hours to earn one of them a place in the Guinness Book of World Records and raise at least £2,000 for local charities.

On the day, two eight foot high Versaclimber exercise machines will be placed in the shopping centre and Stevie and Barry will each undertake the gruelling 29,028ft climb – a feat never before attempted. 

Stevie and Barry will also be joined at The Marches by their colleague, Graeme McGarva (32) from Tillicoutry in Stirling, who, at the same time, will be rowing the English Channel – 22.5 miles – on a Concept 2 Indoor Rower.

Versaclimber UK’s Sales Manager, Claes Svensson, will ratify each of the men’s individual Everest record attempt on the day. He said: “It is a tough challenge and not many people have managed it before. Stevie and Barry have been training hard so I have every confidence one of them will break the record, however I expect there will be a lot of sweat and tears along the way.”

Two charities will benefit from the mammoth climb and row – Radio Clyde’s Cash for Kids and McMillan Cancer Relief. The men hope to raise at least £1,000 on the day and BP Scotland has pledged to match all funds raised, up to value of £1,200, pound for pound. Prison inmates, from Polmont Young Offenders Institute where Stevie and Graeme work, have also pledged sponsorship and support, as well as inmates from Glenochil Prison where Barry is employed.

Stevie Begen explained why they chose to undertake the Everest Challenge on the Versaclimber: “The Versaclimber is the ultimate piece of fitness equipment. We have all used it in training before so we knew exactly what we’d be letting ourselves in for.

“We have all participated in sports events before but nothing on this scale. We felt the time was right for a challenge – at our age you need to be kept on our toes! – and the Versaclimber was the obvious choice in the gym.”

The Versaclimbers are following a strenuous training programme in preparation for the assault on Everest. Training involves four one-hour sessions on the Versaclimber a week as well one two hour session a fortnight. They also have a weights regime to allow them to build muscle tissue to avoid repetitive strain injury in their shoulders and back. In addition to this, they also do circuit training, swimming and football, during their normal working day.

Ends

Neil Pickup, the World, British and European Arm Wrestling Champion, recently confessed to being beaten by a woman on the Versaclimber.

He was challenged by a female friend to a 20-minute workout session on the Versaclimber and admits it had him beaten. He commented: “I consider myself fairly fit so when a friend challenged me to a Versaclimber session I thought it would be no problem. I was wrong!

“I am used to doing upper body weight training and don’t really do any work on the lower half of my body, so the total body exercise provided by the Versaclimber came as a real shock to me.”

Neil has vowed not to be beaten, however. He was so impressed with the Versaclimber workout that he now plans to introduce regular Versaclimbing sessions to his training routine.

His confession came when he visited the Versaclimber stand at the inaugural Work Out 2001 exhibition, held at the Reebok Stadium in Bolton on 27 – 28 November.

Neil arm wrestles in the 85kg category. He is ranked first in the world with his right arm and fifth with his left arm. To win the World Champion title, he had to win a total of 24 matches.

Ends

The benefits of Versaclimber exercise will be available to more people than ever following the accreditation of the Versaclimber 108c SportsMed machine by the English Federation of Disability Sports Inclusive Fitness Initiative (IFI).

The Versaclimber 108c SportsMed is one of only 46 pieces of sports equipment – from thousands available in the marketplace, to be accredited for use by disabled people. Accredited equipment, which includes treadmills, bikes and resistance equipment, will soon be available in 30 IFI approved local authority facilities throughout the UK. 

The SportsMed has been developed from the original Versaclimber to cater specifically for the disability and rehabilitation market. The addition of a seat for pedalling legs or arms and legs exercise, a heart rate control feature for appropriate cardiovascular intensity, limb range of motion limiters, and leg isolators - combined with the trademark Versaclimber stepping and total body climbing motion - enables the SportsMed to offer a versatile exercise system for all impairments. It offers the unique ability for users to use their functional muscles to move disabled muscles in a controlled continuous passive motion.

Using the SportsMed enables the user to get the correct training response without imposing excessive compressive or impact forces through the spine or joints. The climbing range, speed and intensity can all be altered as the user’s fitness levels increase.

The Inclusive Fitness Initiative was developed from research conducted by the Gary Jelen Sports Foundation in 1998, which identified a lack of provision in fitness facilities for disabled people; a lack of awareness among facility staff providing a barrier to participation; and a lack of knowledge amongst disabled people of the benefits of exercise. 

Currently operating as a pilot scheme, it is hoped that the Inclusive Fitness Initiative will be rolled out to every local authority nationally from 2003. 

Ends.

British Naval personnel are being kept in shape following the arrival of a further 16 new LX model Versaclimber machines to Naval gyms since July earlier this year. Versaclimber UK has now been supplying the unique stepping and climbing machine to the British Navy since 1994.

The Navy favours the Versaclimber because as well as providing an excellent total body workout, it takes up little floor space and does not need a power supply. This means it can easily be installed and used on submarines and ships as well in land based gyms, helping to keep troops fit and healthy. This is especially important in situations like that existing in the Middle East, where the forces can be in one place for a considerable amount of time, unable to exercise by running for example.

POPT Quentin Shillingford, Office Manager for HMS Nelson Gymnasium and Royal Navy Boxing Coach, acknowledged that the Versaclimber was an essential part of the training programmes of many Naval personnel. 

He said: “The Versaclimber is an ideal machine to use in training for the annual Royal Navy fitness test. It provides non-load bearing exercise so personnel can train safely and effectively for either of the test options - a mile and a half run or the bleep test.”

The Versaclimber LX model is also used in the training programmes of the Royal Navy Boxing Team, seven of who have been selected for the Great Britain squad.

The Versaclimber provides a challenging work and is used by members of the British Armed Forces and Fire Service as well as gym and health club members throughout the UK.

Ends.

A team of eight fire fighters used the Versaclimber – a unique stepping and climbing machine – to raise an amazing £1,500 for charity recently and came within 10 minutes of smashing a world record.

With a maximum of three weeks of Versclimber training under their belt – some only had a few hours, members of the Hereford and Worcester Combined Fire Authority climbed the height of Mount Everest, in an amazing two hours 30 minutes and 5 seconds.

Versaclimber UK Managing Director Neil Kelford, who provided the team with a machine to train on, witnessed the amazing climb for himself and said: “If I hadn’t seen it for myself I would never have believed it. The Versaclimber is a really tough exercise machine and to achieve a time like this after such a short training period is unbelievable. They deserved every penny they raised for charity.” 

Organised by Leading Fire Fighter Dave Smith, the charity climb was in aid of the Fire Services Benevolent Fund, The Air Ambulance and Worcester Talking Newspaper and Equipment Service for the Blind.

The charity climb took place at the Talbot Inn in Barbourne, Worcester, as part of the Tything Fest. “I was absolutely amazed how well the team did. The lads are now looking forward to attempting the record properly in the future; so watch this space we will have that record in the bag shortly,” said Dave.

He added: “It goes without saying that without the help of Versclimber UK supplying us with a machine, the event would never have got off the ground.” 

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Two Royal Navy teams from HMS Dryad in Portsmouth fought their way to third place at this year’s prestigious Brickwoods Field Gun Competition following considerable training on a unique step and climb machine, the Versaclimber.

The event was held at HMS Collingwood on 23rd June with the two Versaclimber sponsored crews securing their positions in the Plate 1 Final and Plate 2 Final. Team members trained in their own time during the run up to the competition which demands the qualities of leadership, commitment, confidence, teamwork, control, discipline and focus.

Spokesman for HMS Dryad, Lt. Gary Mills, explained: “The Field Gun Competition is unique to the Royal Navy and encompasses all Royal Navy personnel regardless of rank and experience. It requires considerable strength, stamina and speed from all crew members and the Versaclimber was ideal to use as part of the training programme as it enabled us to meet all the physical requirements of the competition.”

Brickwoods Field Gun Competition is contested by the shore establishments of the Royal Navy. The event moved from Her Majesty’s Dockyard to Whale Island before finally moving to HMS Collingwood, where it has been since the early 1960s. The event commemorates the feats of arms carried out by the Naval Brigade during the Boer War. 

It originates from the 1900 Royal Tournament when the crew of HMS Powerful ran a 4.72 callibre gun, weighing more than a tonne, through the arena of the Agricultural Hall in Islington after they returned home from the Boer War. The success of this celebration led to the creation of a skill at arms competition between crews. The first competition was held at Earls Court in 1907 which was closely followed by the creation of Brickwoods sponsored event by the Portsmouth Command. 

Ends.

VERSACLIMBER PROVES TO BE A HIT WITH VISUALLY-IMPAIRED ATHLETE

Melanie (25) from Kennilworth, who is registered blind, used the Versaclimber as part of her gruelling training schedule for the Paralympic games. As well as swimming, Melanie used the Versaclimber for a 15-20 minute stepping and climbing session three times a week at the High Performance Centre in Bath before she went out to Sydney. 

Since her stunning performance at Sydney in the 200-metre medley, 100 and 400 freestyle races in which she won bronze, silver and gold medals respectively, Melanie has now taken up running and intends to compete in marathon competitions. 

She said: “The Versaclimber definitely benefited my fitness for the Games. It’s excellent for aerobic training. Swimming all the time is a bit boring, so using the Versaclimber as part of my training is an excellent way for me to maintain interest in both my swimming and running training programmes.” 

All Versaclimber models are ideal for people who are visually-impaired as they can all be used without the electronic LX module console. In addition, the speed at which you step and climb can be controlled easily by simply turning a resistance knob.

The Versaclimber SportsMed Model has been designed specifically for the sports rehabilitation and disability market. It retains the trademark Versaclimber stepping and climbing exercise with seat and limb attachments so that exercise can be tailored specifically to the users needs.

For more information about any Versaclimber models contact (0121) 561 2771.

Ends. 

A full range of fully refurbished, ex-demo and second-hand Versaclimber machines can be bought from Versaclimber UK. 

The range includes the original Versaclimber, the EZ and Home and SportsMed models. All are available at greatly reduced prices and the fully refurbished models come with a 12-month warranty.  All machines are in full working order and are ideal for home or health club use. 

All the machines represent excellent value for money and are all in sound working order and, with proper maintenance, will withstand many more years of continuous use in the busiest clubs. 

For more information about the machines contact Versaclimber UK on (0121) 561 2771 or email info@versaclimber.co.uk.

Ends. 

Chartered physiotherapist Don Gatherer is ensuring that any injured England Rugby Team players keep in shape for the final stages of the Six Nations competition later this year by using the SportsMed Versaclimber as part of their rehabilitation programmes.

Don, of Don Gatherer Associates Ltd in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, has treated the injuries of some of Britain's top sporting stars since 1972, including the 1976 and '80 Great British Olympic team and most recently the Benetton Formula One team's Australian test driver, Mark Webber.

He is a specialist in the field of exercise therapy and uses the unique SportsMed Versaclimber to ensure that sportsmen and women with lower and upper body limb injuries retain their fitness levels during their recuperation from injuries.

Don Gatherer commented: "The SportsMed Versaclimber has a natural movement which plays an important role in the balance control of sports people when they are recovering from upper and lower limb injuries."

The SportsMed has been adapted from the original Versaclimber to cater specifically for the sports rehabilitation therapy market. The addition of a seat and a number of limb attachments - combined with the trademark Versaclimber stepping and climbing motion - enables the SportsMed to offer a versatile three level rehabilitation system for all types of sports injuries.

Using the SportsMed enables the user to get the correct training response without imposing excessive compressive forces through the lower limbs and pelvis. The climbing range, speed and intensity can all be altered as the patient's treatment progresses.

"The Sports-Med Versaclimber is fast becoming the choice of sports physiotherapists throughout the UK as it enables a faster, safer and more complete rehabilitation experience without the loss of cardiovascular or muscular conditioning during treatment," commented Claes Svensson, Sales Director of Versaclimber UK.

Ends.

Training based on your maximum heart rate and percentages of it is proven to be one of the most effective ways to burn fat, develop excellent basic fitness and stay in shape.  Training is much more focussed when you utilise percentages of your heart rate and it's very easy to do once you have established a maximum level. 

The most straightforward measure of maximum heart rate is 220 minus your age. Therefore, if you are 34, your maximum heart rate should be around 186. If the programme asks you to train at 70% of maximum, you therefore need to train continuously at 130. If your heart rate creeps above that level, you should reduce the workload and intensity to lower it again. It is important always to work with this discipline. 

There is little point in working out for half an hour at 180 beats per minute, if you are supposed to be exercising at 130, however you feel during the work out. It does not have the same physiological benefits and in all likelihood, it will leave you feeling too tired to undertake your next work out effectively.

If you have not previously undertaken any exercise, or if you are convalescing from an injury or illness, you must consult with your doctor first before doing any form of exercise, however mild it may be.

Don't train if you feel unwell or if your heart rate at rest is higher than it is normally. Do not train immediately after a meal and drink water regularly before, during and after your work out.
 

A. Beginner Programme (six week schedule)

Complete this session four times per week 

1. Before every work-out - Warm-Up (Minimum of ten minutes in total, to include    stretching and two minutes gentle climbing). Heart rate to reach 65% of maximum during warm-up

2. Five minutes gentle climbing (Heart rate no more than 65% of maximum), 10 minutes rest, then five minutes gentle climbing.

3. After every work-out - cool down. Gentle climbing until heart rate drops to 60% of maximum, then ten minutes stretching.

For week 3, increase the training period from 5 minutes to 10 minutes and for week 5 and beyond, increase it from 10 to 20 minutes. We suggest you follow the beginner programme for six weeks. Then, if you feel ready, step up to the Intermediate programme.
 

B. Intermediate Programme (six week schedule)

Complete this session five times per week

1. Before every work-out - Warm-Up (Minimum of ten minutes in total, to include stretching and two minutes gentle climbing). Heart rate to reach 75% of maximum during warm-up

2. Half an hour climb ö five minutes climbing at 75% of maximum heart rate, then five minutes at 85%. Repeat cycle three times within thirty minutes then cool down.

3. After every work-out - cool down. Gentle climbing until heart rate drops to 60% of maximum, then ten minutes stretching.

For week 3, increase the work-out to 35 minutes, adding an extra five minutes at 75% maximum heart rate, ie 5' @ 75%, 5' @ 85%, 5' @ 75%, 5' @ 85%, 5' @ 75%, 5' @ 85%, 5' @ 75% . For week 5 and beyond and a further five minutes at 85% of maximum heart rate, ie. 5' @ 75%, 5' @ 85%, 5' @ 75%, 5' @ 85%, 5' @ 75%, 5' @ 85%, 5' @ 75%, 5' @85%.

We suggest you follow the beginner programme for six weeks. Then, if you feel ready, step up to the Expert programme or continue at Intermediate level training for 4 minutes at 75% maximum heart rate and then 6 minutes at 85% heart rate.
 

C. Expert Programme ö Six-week schedule

Before every work-out - Warm-Up stretching 

Complete this session three times per week

0-10 minutes  - Warm-up climbing to peak at 70% of maximum heart rate.

10-25 minutes  - Interval sprint climbing ö power climb at maximum effort 
for 20 seconds, then active recovery until heart rate reduces to 80%. Repeat as many times as 15 minute period will allow and record maximum heart rates to measure improvements.

25-30 minutes - Cool down climbing until heart rate has reduced to 60% 
 

Complete this session once every week

0-10 minutes  - Warm-up climbing to peak at 70% of maximum heart rate.

10-25 minutes - Interval sprint climbing ö power climb at maximum effort 
for 20 seconds, then active recovery until heart rate reduces to 80%. Repeat as many times as 15 minute period will allow and record maximum heart rates to measure improvements.

25-40 minutes - Steady climbing at 75% maximum heart rate.

40-45 minutes - Five minutes climbing at 85% maximum heart rate
 

After every work-out - Cool down. Gentle climbing until heart rate drops to 60% of 
maximum, then ten minutes stretching.

Once you've completed six weeks of the above schedule, you may like to contact Versaclimber to ask for sports specific training programmes. Good luck!

Ends.

More than £1,500 has been raised by staff at the High Street branch of the HSBC Bank in West Bromwich after staff undertook the ultimate Versaclimber challenge ö climbing the height of Mount Everest in aid of Comic Relief.
f 
Twelve members of staff, including the manager and assistant manager, climbed the 29,028ft height of Mount Everest on the 16th March 2001, in an amazing time of five hours and 22 minutes.

The team of five women and seven men, which also included Versaclimber UK Managing Director Neil Kelford, originally allowed eight hours for the sponsored climb which took part in the main banking hall. 

The Bank was loaned a machine by Versaclimber UK two weeks before the fundraising event so that staff could practice for the marathon climb. Their practice certainly paid off when they completed the climb more than two hours and a half hours ahead of their planned schedule..!

The sponsored climb began at 9.00am on a normal working day for the Bank. Peter Simmons, Assistant Manager of the Bank, commented: ãIt was an excellent event which far exceeded our expectations. It was all for such a worthwhile cause that none of us who took part on the day even minded going back to our desks to work after we had finished the climb.ä 

The Bank raised more than £1,000 prior to the climb through sponsorship from local businesses and customers and a further £500 was raised on the day through donations.

Ends.

More than one minute has been knocked off the official Versaclimber 5,000ft UK record time in a charity event held recently at the Dolphin Leisure Centre in Darlington.

The winning team, Paulâs Two, smashed the UK record time of 24 minutes and two seconds by one minute and 23.03 seconds. The team of three, which included Paul Connolly (37), Gavin Luke (22) and Christopher Pearson (21), set the new record time on Sunday 25th February.

Last year Paulâs Two narrowly missed out to The Orange Team II which snatched the record from a team of TVâs Gladiators. Paulâs Two vowed to have revenge and went head-to-head with The Orange Team II, all colleagues of Paul at the leisure centre, in the closely fought competition this year.

ãThe record attempt was hard work but well worth it,ä commented Paul Connolly. ãIn a practice run we beat the record so we were a bit apprehensive as to whether we could repeat the performance in the actual event. We beat it in style which makes up for the disappointing second place we were forced to take last year.ä

Paul, a circuit training coach at the Dolphin Centre, now plans to tackle the official 12- hour Versaclimber record later this year. He and a team of 11 others will attempt to climb more than 111,956 feet on the Versaclimber in 12 hours and step into the Guinness Book of World Records at the same time.

Claes Svensson, Sales Manager of Versaclimber UK who witnessed the record-breaking climb, commented: ãIt was a fantastic and well-deserved victory for the team. The new record time of 22 minutes 36.97 seconds amazingly knocked nearly three minutes off the time set by the super fit Gladiators two years ago.

ãIâm looking forward to a repeat performance when Paul and his team go for the 12 hour record later this year.ä

Ends.

Bernie Shrosbree has one of the most enviable jobs in fitness. As the Human Performance Manager for the Benetton Formula One team, Bernie is responsible for ensuring that the racing team, which includes top drivers Jenson Button and Giancarlo Fisichella, are in peak condition. 

Based at the Benetton Formula One factory in Enstone, Oxfordshire, Bernie presides over a state-of-the-art £4 million Human Performance Centre. It acts as a training facility designed to improve the physiological and psychological fitness of the drivers and indeed the whole Benetton Formula One team. A suite of the industryâs most up-to-date fitness equipment is at the disposal of the team at the Centre including a Versaclimber ö a unique climbing machine. 

Bernie commented: ãThe fitness of a driver is of paramount importance to his performance and his needs are unique. During a race the driver undergoes great psychological stresses with extreme G-forces to the neck region and temperatures reaching more than 100°c in the cockpit of the car. Itâs important to have equipment in the gym that covers the driversâ specific needs - cardiovascular fitness, upper body strength, mental agility and reaction response.ä

The Versaclimber was introduced to the UK fitness market in 1994 and is now used by members of the armed forces, fire service and gyms and fitness suites throughout Britain. The original Versaclimber is recognised in the health and fitness industry as being the ultimate step and climb machine renowned for putting all level of users to the physical test. 

The unique action of the Versaclimber provides a zero-impact total body work out based on climbing ö widely recognised as a sport which requires superb levels of fitness and strength. Used regularly, the Versaclimber will not only increase aerobic and anaerobic capacity but also muscle definition.

As an ex- Royal Marine and former cross-country skiing champion, international triathlete and winner of the television programme ÎSurvival of the Fittestâ, Bernie is a hard task master and knows that fitness and mental well-being is paramount in extreme sports. 

Bernie said: ãRacing drivers need the endurance of a marathon runner or a long-distance cyclist, the neck and some of the arm strength of a prop forward, but the flexibility of a gymnast,ä said Bernie. ãIt is a unique combination so we look for whole body conditioning or specialist exercises so that the right parts of the body are being worked and conditioned.ä

As well as the Benetton Formula One team many other top sports people including Sara Symington, the Olympic cyclist, the rally driver Colin McRae and Pete Goss also use the Human Performance Centre. 

Pete Goss of Team Philips, the high profile but ill-fated round-the-world yacht team, approached Bernie Shrosbree at the Human Performance Centre for help to maximise the potential of his round-the-world yacht team. ãI could see that unless the team were at peak physical fitness then the fatigue and inevitable lack of sleep could seriously affect their performance and allow human error to slip in to the mix,ä said Shrosbree. 

He added; ãEveryone who comes to the Human Performance Centre is an individual case so we sit down with them to design programmes fitting precisely the athleteâs needs. Their demands are all different and itâs important to find an activity which the individual likes. Some may hate jogging but love using the Versaclimber for example so we can make sure that the preferred activity features predominately in the individualâs programme.ä

Versaclimber UK Managing Director Neil Kelford commented: ãItâs a real boost to the Versaclimberâs popularity that such a world class formula one team has chosen to use the machine in its driversâ training programmes. Hopefully the benefits of the Versaclimber will be seen on the 2001 race circuit against the Benetton Formula One team rivals like Schumacher and Hakkinen.ä

The 2001 Formula One season kicks off on March 4th with the Australian Grand Prix held in Albert Park, Melbourne.

Benetton Formula One Milestones

1983   Benetton enters Grand Prix racing through a one-year sponsorship 
          deal with the Tyrell team.
1984   Benetton announces a two-year sponsorship programme with Alfa Romeo.
1986   Benetton Formula Limited established as a team. Maiden victory 
          claimed by Gerhard Berger in the Mexican Grand Prix. Team finishes 
          sixth in Constructorsâ Championship.
1987   Team finishes fifth in Constructorsâ Championship.
1988   Team secures third place in Constructorsâ Championship.
1989   Team wins Japanese Grand Prix and finishes fourth in the Constructorsâ 
          Championship.
1990   Team take its first 1ö2 at the Japanese Grand Prix with Nelson Piquet 
         leading home Roberto Moreno. Piquet also wins Australian Grand Prix and 
          Team finishes third in the Constructorsâ Championship.
1991   Team wins Canadian Grand Prix and finishes fourth in the Constructors'
          Championship.
1992   Team opens its new technical centre at Enstone. Points scored in all the 
          seasonâs races and team wins Belgian Grand Prix to take third in the 
          Constructorsâ Championship.
1993   Team finished third in the Constructorsâ Championship.
1994   Team wins its first World Driversâ Championship. Pole positions taken in 
          Monaco, Spain, Canada, Hungary, Europe and Japan. Victory in the 
          Brazilian, Pacific, San Marino, Monaco, Canadian, French, Hungarian and 
          European Grands Prix. Team takes second place in the Constructorsâ 
          Championship.
1995   Team wins both the World Driversâ and Constructorsâ Championships. Pole 
          positions taken in San Marino, Spain, Canada and Japan. Victory in the
          Brazilian, Spanish, Monaco, French, British, German, Belgian, Italian, 
          European, Pacific and Japanese Grands Prix.
1996   Team finishes third in the Constructorsâ Championship with a total of 10 
          podium finishes, five in second place and five in third place.
1997   Team finishes third in the Constructorsâ Championship with a total of seven 
          podium finishes including pole position and victory for Gerhard Berger in 
          the German Grand Prix.
1998   Team finishes fifth in the Constructorsâ Championship and takes two 
          podium finishes ö second place in Monaco and Canada ö and pole 
          position at the Austrian Grand Prix.
1999   Team finishes sixth in the Constructorsâ Championship and takes second 
          place in the Canada Grand Prix.
2000   Team finishes fourth in the Constructorsâ Championship and takes three 
          podium finishes with Fisichella taking second place in the Brazil, Monte 
          Carlo and Montreal Grands Prix.

Ends.

Versaclimber UK has appointed its sales director Claes Svensson to oversee all sales of Versaclimber machines to the armed forces.

Claes' new role within Versaclimber UK has been created to cater for the increasing demand for the machine amongst physical training instructors in the Army, Navy, Royal Marines and RAF.

Neil Kelford, Managing Director of Versaclimber UK, commented: "The sales volume of Versaclimbers to the armed forces was such that it required a full-time person to deal with it. Claes understands the training needs and culture of the armed forces so he was the obvious choice for such an important role.

Of the increasing use of the Versaclimber amongst the armed forces, Claes commented: "The simplicity of the Versaclimber has contributed to the popularity of the machine in the armed forces. It does not require a power source and takes up a very small amount of floor space so is ideal to be used on Naval ships and submarines.

"The Versaclimber also gives users a complete and total body workout in a relatively short period of time so is an ideal machine for busy recruits to use in their training programmes."

Claes, originally from Sweden, has worked for Versaclimber UK since 1995 covering sales of the machines in Scotland and the north of England.

All armed forces enquiries should now be made to Claes Svensson on (01360) 550325 or email him at sales@versaclimber.co.uk.

Ends

Versaclimber UK has packed a punch with its sponsorship of the Royal Navy boxing team.

All 20 members of the team have been provided with tracksuits, baseball caps and shirts by Versaclimber UK. The kit will all be worn during a tour to Los Angeles in November where they will box against the US Navy boxing team.

The team use Versaclimber machines to train on as part of their training programme. Its unique step and climb action not only increases aerobic and anareobic capacity but also muscle definition when used regularly.

POPT Q Shillingford, coach of the boxing team and a former national boxing champion himself, believes four or five members of the team could reach the national finals and eventually box for England. He commented: "It's important that we look smart and professional when we are on tour and the kit which Versaclimber UK has provided us with will do that."

Managing Director of Versaclimber UK, Neil Kelford, said: "The Royal Navy has an excellent boxing team and we are very proud to be associated with it."

Ends

It's important to always stretch before and after a workout to prevent injury and encourage the development of long, lean muscles. So, whether you're about to tackle a vertical mile on the Versaclimber or a power walk in the park, start and end your workout with this simple set of stretches:

Lower body stretches

1.  Lunge forward stepping out with your right foot so that your left leg is straight behind you. Your feet should be parallel and heels should be flat to the ground with both hands resting on your right thigh. You should feel a stretch in your left calf. Hold this for 30 seconds, release and repeat the movement on your left side.

2.  Stand with your legs a little more than hip distance apart with your right foot pointing to the right and your left foot pointing forwards. Keeping the left leg straight, bend your right knee and transfer your weight onto your right leg. Rest your hands on your right thigh bending your torso forwards. Your spine should be straight and you should be looking straight ahead. The stretch can be felt on your left inner thigh. To progress the stretch take a deeper bend on the right leg. Hold for about 30 seconds and then change sides.

3.  Place your right heel on the floor in front of your left foot. Bend your left leg and raise your right toe towards the ceiling. Place your hands on your left thigh and bend your torso towards your knees, making sure that the chin stays up and your spine is straight. you should feel a stretch at the back of your right thigh. Hold this for 30 seconds then repeat then repeat the movement with your left side.

4.  In a standing position bend your right knee and bring in the ankle up behind you. Hold your ankle with your hand, making sure that your hips are tilted forward, both knees are together and your left knee is relaxed (you can hold onto something for balance with your free hand if you need to). You should feel a stretch at the front of the right thigh. Hold this for 30 seconds, release and then change legs. 

Upper body stretches

Before beginning the following upper body stretches make sure that your feet are shoulder width apart, toes are pointing forwards and knees are relaxed.

1.  Take your arms behind you, bending your elbows and placing the palms of your hands on the base of your back with your fingers together pointing towards the floor gently squeeze your shoulder blades together for 30 seconds. This stretch should be felt in the chest area.

2.  Stretch your arms out in front of you at shoulder height. Clasp your hands together so that your palms face towards you. Keeping your elbows slightly bent and your head looking down you should feel a stretch across the top of your back. Hold this for about 30 seconds 

3.  Extend your right arm towards the ceiling so that it is fully straight. Then bend it behind your head. Using your left arm gently push the back of the top of your right arm towards the back of your head. You should feel a stretch at the top and back of your arm. Hold for 30 seconds then repeat the movement with your left arm.

Ends. 

Pounding on a treadmill or pumping iron isn't always an attractive or viable option for the over-fifties who want to keep in shape. And the equipment in fitness suites and gyms which can be used easily is often limited.

However, the new Versaclimber EZ has been designed to meet the needs of every gym user and is now arriving in gyms and health club chains across the country, as well as in the homes of fitness enthusiasts.

The EZ was designed using feedback from enthusiasts at a large cross-section of gyms and the result is a machine which is ideal for every gym user regardless of age, weight, height or level of fitness.

Neil Kelford, Managing Director of Versaclimber UK, commented: "The EZ has been developed with people like the over-fifties in mind. It offers users a thorough workout with no impact on joints. The machine is already becoming popular with novice and intermediate users despite only having being introduced to the fitness market a short time ago."

For the older generation, the EZ provides an easy workout where all the major joints are exercise. It will improve flexibility, strength and basic fitness with only minimum regular workouts.

Ends.

If climbing the real Mount Everest or Mont Blanc in a group is a little too much, then one of the latest crazes to sweep gymnasiums in the USA could be answer.

More and more groups within gymnasiums are 'theming' their training and the Versaclimber has proved to be one of  the major beneficiaries. Versaclimbers have been popular in gyms in the UK for more than a decade, but now in the United States, Hi-Tri (three machines in a circular format) and Hi-Five (five machines) combinations are providing training stations where groups can chat while tackling the equivalent distance of an Everest climb, a trip up the Matterhorn or even a swift sprint up the Empire State Building!

The Versaclimber is unique in offering a combination step and climb action, which lends itself perfectly to group training in a Hi-Tri or Hi-Five format. Groups can see themselves and talk to and encourage other members while working out lightly or strenuously.

Experts reckon group training themed in this way helps reduce the boredom of training alone and provides real motivation during the workout itself.

"We are hearing about more and more examples in the US where gyms have themed training on the Hi-Tri and Hi-Five stations," commented Versaclimber UK's Neil Kelford.

"You don't have to work out in a group to theme your fitness programme in this way, but we can see why it's so popular across the Atlantic. We've picked up many of our training habits from the Americans, so why not this?"

Ends.

Have you ever felt like climbing Everest or vertically sprinting for fun? For thousands of Versaclimber users throughout the UK who want to undertake the challenge, there is now a new 'times' section on the Versaclimber web site for enthusiasts who want to shout about their Versaclimbing achievements. 

Individuals and groups can register their times for singlehandedly Versaclimbing Everest, doing a 1,000ft verticle sprint or a verticle mile, while groups of three can attempt the 5,000ft distance. To register a time visit www.versaclimber.co.uk and use the contact form to email your time to info@versaclimber.co.uk. 

Neil Kelford, Managing Director of Versaclimber UK, said: "This is an ideal way to make getting fit fun. It also gives people an achieveable fitness goal to aim for by competing against like-minded Versaclimber enthusiasts as well as elite athletes." 

Latest news and stories from the world of Versaclimbing are also posted on the web site, including new world records, fundraising events and even testimonials from leading sports people and medical practitioners who regularly use the Versaclimber in either training or treatment. 

Ends.

The holiday is booked, the weight loss programme is in place, gym membership has been renewd and the quest has begun for the ultimate biking body. 

Weight loss and body toning has never been easy but using a Versaclimber - a unique step and climb machine - a total body workout can be done at the gym or at home in less time than using any other piece of fitness equipment.

The Versaclimber is great for toning and strengthening the entire body, especially the hips, thighs and buttocks. In half an hour 420 calories can be burned climbing at a rate of 1.3 miles per hour. Even more muscle is worked out using the Versaclimber than through running, yet there is no hard-impact pounding or jarring associated with running. 

A Versaclimber user will feel the benefits of an effective, effecient workout in as little as 30 minutes of exercise three times a week. You can count the number of calories burned, climb a certain distance for a particular length of time. No special skills are needed, it's just a case of getting on and climbing. 

What about climbing the height of Ben Nevis or Nelson's Column after a day in the office? Or training with friends on three or five Versaclimber machines linked together? Getting fit and toned can be fun as well as healthy. 

Just go to the 'Times' section of the web site to find out about the Versaclimber challenges and how to register your time.

Ends.

Versaclimber has developed a fitness solution to suit everyone's exercise programme. 

The original Versaclimber machine has been a favourite of athletes and members of gyms and health clubs since it was introduced to the fitness market nearly 20 years ago. Now a brand new sister machine has been designed to appeal to the novice rather than an intermediate or 'elite' climber. 

It retains the smooth, natural and comfortable rhythm of the original Versaclimber. The new Versaclimber EZ, however, has an easier climbing action thanks to a decrease in the size of step taken. The stepping distance on the new model has been reduced to between four and six inches compared with the 12 to 20 inch step on the traditional machine. While the legs do the stepper exercise the arms are climbing at the standard full range of motion to give users a workout intensity comparable to that of a stepping machine, but with an upper body workout as well. 

Hydraulic resistance on the new Versaclimber EZ enables the resistance to be altered by up to 500 pounds so it can play a major part in the exercise regime of anyone, regardless of age, weight, height or level of fitness. 

"There are very few fitness machines on the market which offer a highly efficient and effective workout that can be enjoyed by every member of a health club," commented Neil Kelford, Managing Director of Versaclimber UK. 

"The Versaclimber is ideal for gymnasiums where space is of a premium due to the small amount of floor space it takes up. The machines can even be grouped together in pyramids of three or five so group training can take place," he added. 

The new Verscalimber EZ also boasts a user friendly electronic display which includes 16 exercise programmes, a race mode and a calorie burn rate. 

Ends.

The gauntlet has now been thrown down to all Versaclimber owners by The Dolphin Centre in Darlington, challenging them to a 5000 feet 'climb off' following a record breaking time set at the Centre recently.

The event, organised by Shaun Carr, the Leisure Activities Manager for Darlington Borough Council, was open to teams of three (all male, female or mixed) and saw not one but two teams beat the UK record time of 25 minutes three seconds set by a team of TV's Gladiators in an event last year. The event also included teams from the Police Force, Fire Brigade and the Royal Marines.

The event, which was in aid of the British Heart Foundation and raised £300, witnessed a three man team, representing Graphics Systems Darlington, first beat the Gladiators' record by 30 seconds, setting a time of 24 minutes 36 seconds. This was followed by a stunning performance from the all male Orange Team II, which eclipsed both records by setting a time of 24 minutes and two seconds.The winning Orange Team II trio were all employees of The Dolphin Centre - Mike Guest a fitness trainer, fitness coach Stuart Taylor and all round sportsman and netball player Paul Gatiss.

The times were verified by Versaclimber UK's Managing Director Neil Kelford and sales manager Claes Svensson. Neil commented: ìIt was a fantastic day to be able to witness for myself not one but two teams smash the Versaclimber 5000 feet UK record.

"The Dolphin Centre has now firmly thrown the gauntlet down and it's up to other teams around the country to see if they can beat this outstanding time."

Ends.

Versaclimber helps firefighters climb into the Guinness Book of World Record

Twelve firefighters from stations throughout South Yorkshire have climbed their way into the Guinness Book of World Records using the Versaclimber, a unique step and climb machine.

In a marathon 12 hour climb at the Alhambra Centre in Barnsley, the firefighters climbed a record height of 111,951 feet on a Versaclimber. Guinness World Records have now confirmed that the firefighters and their climb - almost three times the height of Mount Everest - is now officially recognised as a new world record.

Chief Fire Officer, Barry O'Donnell presented each of the record breaking team members with an exclusive certificate acknowledging their achievement and welcomed them to the select band of Guinness world record holders.

Mr O'Donnell said: "This is a marvellous achievement. We are very proud of them. One of the principle elements of every recruit's course is team work and these members from our thirty fourth recruits course have used it to maximum effect in making their team the best in the world."

The Versaclimber machine is a compact piece of fitness equipment which is ideal for firefighters to use in training as it simulates the movement of climbing on the full length ladders which are used on a daily basis by firefighters.

Neil Kelford, managing director of Versaclimber UK, commented: "To set a world record is a stunning achievement and I am delighted that it has been done on a Versaclimber. The Versaclimber is renowned throughout the fire service for putting users to the test of their physical fitness and the machine's widespread use is testament to the high standard of recruits which the fire service attracts."

As well as setting a world record, the firefighters also raised more than £2,500 for the National Fire Service Benevolent fund.