A Bognor Regis gym which started life as a training space for a small group of friends is celebrating its first anniversary.

The Training Ground, in Durban Road, was founded by Matt Minter and his friend and training partner Dave, who originally wanted somewhere properly equipped to prepare for fitness competitions such as HYROX and DEKA.

The gym, which opened in October 2025, specialises in functional fitness and fitness racing, combining running, strength and endurance training.

Its facilities include competition-style equipment such as sleds, SkiErgs and RowErgs, allowing members to practise the challenges they will face at events. The gym also runs full HYROX and DEKA simulations.

The Training Ground, in Durban Road, was founded by Matt Minter and his friend and training partner Dave. Picture: Matt Minter

placeholder image — The Training Ground, in Durban Road, was founded by Matt Minter and his friend and training partner Dave. Picture: Matt Minter

But it is the progress of its members that Matt says has been one of the most rewarding parts of the first year.

Some joined with little or no gym experience, simply wanting to lose weight, improve their health or build confidence. Others have since progressed to competing in fitness racing events, achieving personal bests, podium finishes and even qualifying for world championships.

Matt said: "People who previously wouldn't have dreamed of entering a sporting event are now signing up for their first HYROX or DEKA.

"But we're equally proud of somebody who arrives struggling with their fitness and, a few months later, completes their first race. For that person, crossing the finish line can be every bit as significant as somebody winning a medal."

The gym also offers HYROX Young Stars sessions for children aged eight to 15, focusing on fitness, coordination, confidence and teamwork.

Matt added: “We want to continue growing our community, developing our younger athletes, supporting beginners and helping our members achieve things they might once have considered impossible.

“Whether that’s completing a first fitness class, losing weight, improving their health, finishing their first HYROX, standing on a podium or qualifying for a world championship, every achievement matters.

“When Dave and I first started The Training Ground, we simply wanted a great place for ourselves and our small group of friends to train and prepare for competitions.

“A year later, it’s become something we’re genuinely proud of.

“If we can help people become healthier, happier, more confident and achieve things they never thought possible, then we’re doing exactly what we set out to do.”