The decision to switch to a 24-hour, seven days a week model came after the YMCA experienced significant and unanticipated financial shortfalls in the past three years due to the rise in competition. 

The aquatic centre’s membership, on average, was 116 less members per month in the 2016-17 financial year when compared to three years prior, which caused a loss of income. 

The gym now joins Horsham’s Anytime Fitness and Snap Fitness, who both offer the 24 hour service.  

Horsham  Aquatic Centre Manager Mark Meyer said the unrestricted opening hours gave members more flexibility to exercise at a time that suits them. He said “better accessibility was the goal” with the move to 24-hours. 

“This is in line with creating flexible choices for the whole community, especially those who are time-poor,” he said.

Read more: Horsham Aquatic Centre plans to offer 24/7 gym service 

“Our research indicated that night users are not only shift workers, but also mothers with babies and deconditioned who find the quieter times less intimidating.

“We want to encourage everyone to be more active so providing 24-hour access to a safe and secure environment will help achieve this.” 

Research also showed that being active and participating in leisure and sport can increase the community’s sense of wellbeing, social interaction and physical fitness. 

Mr Meyer said that this was in “perfect alignment” with the YMCA’s commitment to providing services that help people become healthier and happier. 

“So, removing barriers to entry and providing options that suit all lifestyles is important,” he said.

The centre has undergone a “comprehensive risk assessment” and members will be provided with individual access cards that include safety measures for times that the gym is unstaffed. 

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