THE BEST GYM TRAINING FACILITY IN SHROPSHRE
OUR BESPOKE GYM TRAINING FACILITY IN THE HEART OF SHROPSHIRE
Looking for a gym that goes beyond the typical fitness experience? Welcome to Alpha Athletic Gym in Newport, Shropshire—a vibrant, bespoke training facility that has quickly become a favorite among locals, including students from nearby Harper Adams University. Whether you're new to working out or a seasoned athlete, Alpha Athletic Gym offers an atmosphere and amenities that make every workout a rewarding experience. Here’s what makes Alpha Athletic the best gym in Shropshire.
1. A Unique, Vibrant + INCLUSIVE Atmosphere
Stepping into Alpha Athletic Gym, you’re immediately greeted by an energetic environment. Our community-driven space fosters motivation and support among members. From the friendly staff to fellow fitness enthusiasts, the atmosphere here pushes you to achieve your goals and feel at home. Alpha Athletic’s environment attracts a diverse crowd, so you’ll see everyone from RETIREES, BUSY MUMS AND DADS, students, and young professionals to dedicated athletes.
2. Bespoke Facility with State-of-the-Art Equipment
Our commitment to quality and functionality sets Alpha Athletic Gym apart from other gyms in the area. Our gym is fitted with state-of-the-art Watson equipment, a top-tier brand known for precision engineering and durability. With Watson’s innovative equipment, you’ll find everything from premium weight machines to functional training tools, all designed to give you the most effective workouts possible.
Our bespoke approach to the facility layout means every piece of equipment has been thoughtfully selected and placed to optimize your training experience, whether you're focused on strength training, functional fitness, or endurance.
STATE OF THE ART WATSON EQUIPMENT
THE WATSON STAMP OF APPROVAL
3. Flexible and Affordable Membership Options
At Alpha Athletic, we believe that everyone should have access to a top-quality training experience. That’s why we offer flexible and affordable membership options to suit different needs and schedules. Whether you’re looking for a short-term commitment, a student membership, or something that accommodates your busy work life, Alpha Athletic has a plan that works for you.
We’re proud to offer affordable options that don’t compromise on quality, making it easier for members to commit to their fitness journey without breaking the bank. Our flexibility also appeals to Harper Adams University students, who appreciate the accessibility and affordability of a top-tier gym right nearby.
FLEXIBLE MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE
4. Community-Centered and Locally Loved
Alpha Athletic Gym is more than just a place to work out; it's a community. We’re proud to be supported by Newport locals who value the sense of belonging they find here. WE PROMOTE A culture of mutual respect and shared motivation among our members.
For students, Alpha Athletic is a convenient option that provides a welcoming space to stay fit and de-stress from their studies. And for residents, it’s a home base where they can connect with like-minded individuals and work towards their fitness goals in a supportive setting.
5. A Commitment to Member Success
At Alpha Athletic Gym, we’re dedicated to helping each member reach their personal best. OUR 1:1 PERSONAL TRAINING IS SECOND TO NONE . We believe that everyone’s fitness journey is unique, and we’re here to make sure you have the resources and support to succeed.
LEG DAY NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD
Why Alpha Athletic Stands Out in Shropshire
In a county with many gyms and fitness centers, Alpha Athletic Gym stands out for its vibrant, welcoming environment and commitment to excellence. WE ARE A SMALL , FAMILY RUN BUSINESS AND WE STRIVE TO TREAT ALL MEMBERS AS INDIVIDUALS, INSTEAD OF JUST A NUMBER. Our bespoke training facility, high-quality Watson equipment, and affordable, flexible memberships make it the top choice for anyone looking to invest in their health and fitness.
Whether you’re a local resident, a student, or just passing through, we invite you to experience the Alpha Athletic difference. Visit us in Newport, Shropshire, and see why so many have chosen us as their fitness home. Join the Alpha Athletic community, and let’s get stronger together!
Climb Your Way to Fitness: The Benefits of Using the StairMaster at Alpha Athletic Gym
The state of the art stairmaster at Alpha Athletic
If you're looking to take your cardio routine to the next level, the StairMaster at Alpha Athletic Gym in Newport, Shropshire, might be just the machine you need. Known for delivering a powerful cardio workout that builds strength and stamina, the StairMaster is a fan-favoUrite among fitness enthusiasts and beginners alike. But why is it so effective? And who can benefit most from using it? Let’s dive into the benefits and find out why the StairMaster should be part of your fitness routine at Alpha Athletic.
Why Use a StairMaster? The Key Benefits
1. Unbeatable Cardiovascular Workout
The StairMaster is designed to elevate your heart rate quickly, giving you an efficient cardio workout in a short time. Climbing stairs forces your heart to pump more oxygen to your muscles, which enhances cardiovascular health and endurance. Whether you’re warming up, cooling down, or aiming for a complete cardio session, the StairMaster helps keep your heart strong and healthy.
2. Builds Lower Body Strength
Each step you take on the StairMaster engages your quads, hamstrings, glutes, and calves, making it ideal for strengthening the lower body. This machine mimics the resistance of climbing stairs, working against gravity to build muscle endurance and strength with every step. Regular use can enhance leg strength and definition, making it a fantastic complement to resistance training.
3. Burns Calories Efficiently
If burning calories is one of your goals, the StairMaster is a powerhouse. The constant stepping motion keeps your body engaged and burns more calories per minute than many other cardio machines, such as treadmills or stationary bikes. This is especially beneficial for weight management or anyone aiming to lose body fat while building strength.
EASY TO USE EVEN FOR BEGINNERS
4. Low-Impact on Joints
Unlike running, which can strain knees and ankles over time, the StairMaster provides a low-impact workout that’s gentler on the joints. The machine’s smooth motion minimizes jarring impact, making it suitable for those with joint concerns or anyone recovering from injury. You’ll get a tough workout without stressing your knees, hips, or back.
5. Improves Balance and Coordination
Climbing stairs requires stability, coordination, and balance, all of which are enhanced over time with regular use of the StairMaster. By activating your core muscles, this machine helps improve posture and balance, which can benefit your overall fitness and make other exercises easier and more effective.
6. Versatile for All Fitness Levels
One of the greatest aspects of the StairMaster is its versatility. You can customize your speed and resistance to match your fitness level and goals, making it an accessible machine for beginners, advanced athletes, and everyone in between.
step by step
Who is the StairMaster For?
The StairMaster’s versatility makes it a great fit for a wide range of fitness enthusiasts at Alpha Athletic Gym, including:
1. Beginners Looking to Get Fit
New to cardio? The StairMaster is beginner-friendly, allowing you to set a comfortable pace while still delivering an effective workout. Start slow, and as you gain confidence, gradually increase the intensity for a steady progression.
2. Busy Individuals Who Want Efficient Workouts
For those short on time, the StairMaster provides a full-body workout that can be done in as little as 15-20 minutes. If you’re juggling work, studies, or a busy schedule, you can still get a serious sweat session without spending an hour on the gym floor.
3. Runners and Cyclists Building Strength
Runners and cyclists often use the StairMaster as cross-training to build lower body strength and endurance without overworking their muscles. It’s an effective way to build power in the legs, improve cardiovascular health, and add variety to your training regimen.
4. Those Focused on Weight Loss
If weight loss is part of your fitness journey, the calorie-burning potential of the StairMaster makes it a powerful tool. You can use interval training on the StairMaster—alternating between high and low intensities—to maximize calorie burn and increase metabolism.
5. Members with Joint Concerns
For individuals with joint concerns or anyone recovering from a previous injury, the low-impact nature of the StairMaster is ideal. You can still achieve a high-intensity workout without risking extra strain on the knees or ankles.
6. Anyone Looking for a Challenge
Even if you’re an advanced athlete, the StairMaster can provide the intensity and resistance needed for a challenging workout. With a range of resistance settings and workout variations, it can push your limits and keep your fitness routine fresh and exciting.
the stairmaster in action
Making the Most of Your StairMaster Workout at Alpha Athletic
At Alpha Athletic Gym, our StairMaster is ready to help you meet your fitness goals. Here are a few tips to maximize your workout:
Start Slow: Warm up with a moderate pace for the first 5 minutes, gradually increasing intensity as you get comfortable.
Mix in Intervals: Alternate between high-speed, high-resistance intervals and slower recovery steps to keep your heart rate up and engage different muscle fibers.
Use Proper Form: Avoid leaning on the handrails; instead, focus on engaging your core and standing tall to improve balance and work your muscles effectively.
Track Your Progress: Take note of the resistance level, duration, and steps per minute to track your progress and stay motivated.
The StairMaster at Alpha Athletic Gym is here to support you every step of the way—whether you’re a newcomer to fitness or looking to elevate your current routine. So why wait? Come by the gym and try it out for yourself. Climb your way to improved fitness, strength, and health with us!
the only way is up
A video of a woman using the StairMaster at Alpha Athletic gym in Newport, Shropshire.
Get Stronger in Just 15 Minutes: Power Bag Workout at Alpha Athletic Gym
bulldog gear power bags ready for action
If you’re looking for a quick, effective workout that combines strength, cardio, and functional training, the power bag workout is just what you need! At Alpha Athletic Gym in Newport, Shropshire, we offer Bulldog Gear power bags that are perfect for building strength, boosting endurance, and improving agility—all in a compact, versatile workout that’s ideal for busy schedules. Here’s a 15-minute power bag workout to get you started, along with some benefits that make power bags a fantastic choice for fitness enthusiasts of all levels.
Why Use Power Bags? The Benefits
1. Full-Body Engagement:
Power bags require your entire body to work together to lift, balance, and control the weight. This not only builds strength but also enhances coordination, stability, and balance.
2. Functional Fitness:
Since power bags replicate movements from daily life (lifting, pushing, throwing), training with them prepares your body for real-world activities and sports. The workout improves functional strength, which translates to better performance in everything from lifting groceries to running on the field.
3. Cardiovascular and Strength Benefits:
A power bag workout is dynamic, so it elevates your heart rate while also building muscle. This combination maximizes calorie burn and builds both endurance and strength in a single session.
4. Versatility and Accessibility:
Power bags come in different weights and sizes, making them suitable for all fitness levels. They can be used in countless ways, from explosive movements to controlled lifts, providing a wide range of exercises that target different muscle groups.
15-Minute Power Bag Workout Routine
This workout combines exercises that target multiple muscle groups, using a Bulldog Gear power bag. Set a timer for 15 minutes and aim to complete as many rounds as possible with good form, resting as needed between sets.
Warm-Up (2-3 Minutes)
Start with a quick warm-up to get your body ready. Do some dynamic stretches or light cardio like jumping jacks or high knees for 2-3 minutes to increase blood flow and warm up the muscles.
Workout: Perform Each Exercise for 45 Seconds with a 15-Second Rest
1. Power Bag Squat to Press
How to Do It: Hold the power bag at chest level with both hands, feet shoulder-width apart. Lower into a squat, then press through your heels to stand back up while pressing the bag overhead.
Benefits: This compound movement targets your legs, shoulders, and core, building both lower and upper body strength while boosting your heart rate.
up-level your SQUATS by adding a power bag
2. Power Bag Russian Twists
How to Do It: Sit on the floor, leaning back slightly with your knees bent and feet lifted off the ground (if possible). Hold the bag with both hands at your chest and rotate your torso to move the bag from side to side.
Benefits: This exercise engages your core, specifically the obliques, helping improve stability and balance.
ENGAGE YOUR CORE EVEN MORE WITH A POWER BAG WORKOUT
3. Power Bag Deadlift
How to Do It: Place the bag on the floor in front of you. Stand with feet hip-width apart, hinge at the hips, and grab the bag with both hands. Engage your core and lift by driving through your heels to a standing position, squeezing the glutes at the top.
Benefits: This movement strengthens your glutes, hamstrings, and lower back, providing a great foundation for improved posture and lower body strength.
deadlift with a power bag
4. Power Bag Clean and Press
How to Do It: Start with the bag on the floor. Bend down to grasp it, then pull it to shoulder height using an explosive movement, finishing by pressing it overhead. Lower it back down to start the next rep.
Benefits: The clean and press is an explosive move that enhances power and coordination while targeting shoulders, back, legs, and core.
5. Power Bag Reverse Lunge with Rotation
How to Do It: Hold the bag at chest level. Step back with one leg into a lunge position and twist your torso towards the side of the front leg. Return to standing and repeat on the other side.
Benefits: This exercise strengthens the glutes, hamstrings, and core while enhancing rotational stability and balance.
get more from your lunges with the use of a power bag
6. Power Bag Overhead Carry (30-45 Seconds)
How to Do It: Hold the power bag overhead with both hands, keeping your arms straight and core engaged. Walk a short distance (or walk in place if you’re limited on space).
Benefits: The overhead carry challenges core stability and shoulder endurance, while also engaging your upper back and improving posture.
Cool Down (2-3 Minutes)
After completing the workout, spend a few minutes cooling down. Stretch your hamstrings, quads, shoulders, and arms to help relax the muscles and support recovery.
Tips for Success
Choose the Right Weight: Start with a power bag that allows you to perform each exercise with good form. You can always increase the weight as you get stronger.
Focus on Form: Quality over quantity! Concentrate on controlled movements and maintain proper form to avoid injury and maximize results.
Modify as Needed: If any exercises feel too challenging, adjust the intensity or substitute with a lower-impact move.
Ready to Try? Head to Alpha Athletic Gym!
At Alpha Athletic Gym, we have a range of Bulldog Gear power bags, allowing you to customize your workout to your strength level and fitness goals. This 15-minute power bag workout is perfect for days when you're short on time but want to maximize your workout's impact. Give it a try on your next visit, and see how this versatile equipment can boost your fitness journey!
How to Use a MAG Grip: A Guide to Maximising Your Back Workout
MAXIMUM ADVANTAGE GRIP
MAG (Maximum Advantage Grip) handles have become increasingly popular in gyms due to their unique design that enhances back workouts, increases grip strength, and reduces stress on the wrists and forearms. Unlike traditional handles, MAG grips are specifically contoured to fit your hands, which allows for a more secure grip and better isolation of the target muscles in your back. Here’s a complete guide on how to use a MAG grip effectively, along with the benefits of incorporating it into your workout routine.
What is a MAG Grip?
A MAG grip is a specially designed handle used for pulling exercises in back workouts. Unlike conventional handles, MAG grips are made with ergonomic contours that support a natural hand position, promoting a firm grip without the need to squeeze excessively. This allows for better engagement of the lats, traps, and rhomboids—key muscles in the back—while reducing strain on the wrists and forearms.
Benefits of Using a MAG Grip
1. Better Muscle Activation:
MAG grips allow you to focus on contracting the back muscles without relying on forearm or wrist strength, which can often fatigue before your back muscles. This ensures that your lats, traps, and rhomboids do more of the work.
2. Reduced Wrist and Forearm Fatigue:
The ergonomic design of MAG grips minimizes the need to grip tightly, reducing strain on your wrists and forearms. This helps you work your back more effectively, especially during high-rep sets or heavier weight lifts.
3. Improved Grip Position:
MAG grips encourage a more natural, neutral hand position, reducing stress on the joints and allowing for a more comfortable, pain-free workout. This positioning is particularly beneficial for those who experience wrist pain or discomfort with traditional bar attachments.
4. Versatility in Back Workouts:
MAG grips come in various styles and angles (close grip, medium grip, and wide grip), each designed to target different areas of the back. This variety allows you to add versatility and depth to your back workout routine.
GET A GRIP
How to Use a MAG Grip in Your Workout
MAG grips can be incorporated into any pulling exercise that targets the back muscles. Here’s how to use them effectively:
1. Lat Pulldown with MAG Grip
How to Do It:
Attach the MAG grip to the lat pulldown machine.
Sit down and secure your knees under the pad.
Grab the MAG grip with both hands and focus on using a neutral hand position (palms facing each other).
Pull the grip down to your chest, keeping your elbows pointed slightly down and back.
Squeeze your shoulder blades together at the bottom of the movement, then slowly release back up.
LAT PULLDOWN
Benefits:
The lat pulldown with a MAG grip allows you to focus on your lats without placing strain on your wrists. The contoured design also provides a comfortable, secure grip, so you can concentrate on contracting your back muscles with each rep.
2. Seated Cable Row with MAG Grip
How to Do It:
Attach the MAG grip to a seated cable row machine.
Sit down with your feet on the foot platform and grab the MAG grip with both hands.
Keeping your back straight, pull the MAG grip toward your torso, squeezing your shoulder blades together at the end of the movement.
Slowly return to the starting position with control, maintaining a steady posture.
SEATED CABLE ROW
Benefits:
Using a MAG grip for seated rows emphasizes the middle and upper back muscles while reducing tension on your wrists. It also helps prevent the common issue of arm fatigue during row exercises, allowing for better focus on back activation.
3. Close Grip Pulldown with MAG Grip
How to Do It:
Attach a close-grip MAG attachment to the pulldown machine.
Sit with your knees secure under the pad and grab the close-grip MAG handle.
Pull the handle down to your chest, keeping your elbows close to your body.
Squeeze at the bottom of the movement, focusing on contracting your lats, and then slowly release back up.
Benefits:
The close grip MAG handle is perfect for targeting the inner lats and upper back muscles. The close, neutral grip reduces strain on the wrists and keeps your hands and forearms comfortable as you focus on the back muscles.
4. Straight Arm Pulldown with MAG Grip
How to Do It:
Attach a straight MAG grip to the cable machine.
Stand facing the machine, holding the MAG grip with your arms extended.
With a slight bend in your elbows, pull the MAG grip down to your thighs, focusing on keeping your arms straight throughout.
Slowly release back to the starting position, maintaining control.
Benefits:
This exercise isolates the lats and is a great way to target them without involving the arms as much. The ergonomic grip makes it easier to maintain form and keep the focus on the back.
Which MAG Grip to Choose?
MAG grips come in a variety of styles designed to target different areas of your back. Here are some common options:
Close Grip MAG: Ideal for close-grip pulldowns and rows, this attachment targets the inner lats and upper back.
Medium Grip MAG: A medium grip targets the middle of the lats, providing balanced engagement of the upper and lower back.
Wide Grip MAG: A wide grip works the outer lats and helps develop that “V” shape in the back.
Each grip offers a slightly different angle and focus, making it easy to customize your back workout and ensure you’re targeting all areas of the muscle.
CHOOSE YOUR GRIP
Tips for Maximizing Your MAG Grip Workout
Choose the Right Weight: Start with a manageable weight to ensure you can focus on form and muscle contraction rather than gripping strength.
Mind Your Elbow Position: Keep your elbows close to your body during exercises to maximize lat engagement and prevent over-reliance on arm muscles.
Focus on the Squeeze: Use each repetition as an opportunity to contract and squeeze your back muscles, especially at the end of each movement.
Incorporate Different Angles: Try different MAG grip attachments (close, medium, wide) to ensure you’re working all areas of the back effectively.
Final Thoughts
Using a MAG grip in your back workout can be a game-changer, providing better muscle engagement, less strain on your wrists, and a more comfortable grip. By incorporating exercises like the lat pulldown, seated cable row, close grip pulldown, and straight arm pulldown, you’ll work all areas of your back with precision and comfort. The unique design of MAG grips makes them a valuable addition to any workout routine, especially for those looking to improve their back strength and develop a more defined physique.
Visit Alpha Athletic Gym to try out different MAG grips and see how they can enhance your back workout! With consistent use and the right form, you’ll experience better back engagement, strength, and growth.