Paralympian silver medallist Ben Fox visits new gym in Newbury

A Paralympic athlete fresh from victory in France has visited Newbury’s newest gym, writes Ollie Basham.

Iconiq Fitness officially opened in Parkway on Saturday in the space occupied by Anytime Fitness until this abruptly closed without warning last November.

Wheelchair basketball player Ben Fox, who recently won silver for Team GB at this year’s Paralympic Games in Paris, visited the new gym on Monday.

He met joint founders Alan Hammons and Peter Palik and toured the facilities.

“It’s an honour to be here and it’s always good to see new ventures opening up in the community, especially after the Olympics and Paralympics,” the Swindon-born athlete told newburytoday.

“It’s a good opportunity to get people fit and active and hopefully inspire some take up sport.

“I heard a lot of good things about this gym about how they built it to be inclusive.

“It has been big open spaces and changing rooms; it’s everything you need as a disabled athlete.”

And he will be going for gold next time round?

“Absolutely,” the athlete confirmed. “Training’s already began. It’s just a shame we have to wait four years because we’re all raring to go.”

Mr Palik, who works as a personal trainer, said having Mr Fox visit was “fantastic” and “basically a dream come true”.

Mr Hammons, previously a member at Anytime, said they had spent about £250,000 in renovating the gym to make it more accessible for those with mobility issues.

The new facilities include dedicated strength rooms, fitness room, spin room and a specialised HYROX class.

The pair want the gym to have a luxury feel with a community focus which acknowledges its members’ needs.

Parkway Shopping centre manager Andrew Marmot added: “Parkway is delighted to have the gym open and trading.

“We are really impressed with the fantastic facilities and potential this offers.”

Gym membership starts from £49.95 per month, with premium options available from £74.95 per month.