A new fitness membership network for sector professionals to share ideas and benefit from trade discounts has launched via Facebook today (12 June).

The National Fitness Network is the brainchild of former club operator and LFX network founder Graeme Hinde, who has brought in fitness entrepreneur and Apprentice star Katie Bulmer-Cooke, plus Burnley Leisure head of operations Neil Hutchinson to join him as directors for the new network. The trio aim to create a community of like-minded fitness professionals and enthusiasts who want to share ideas, as well as receive useful information and deals on trade supplies and training.

“For many years I have listened to industry colleagues talking about how we should pay our people more for the fantastic work they do on the front line, but things don’t seem to have improved,” said Hinde.

“I decided that it was time to give something back and so we are creating a fantastic range of exclusive member offers and discounts.”

The National Fitness Network is unique in that the main community will be hosted on Facebook rather than a dedicated website. Aside from keeping down costs, the team hope to benefit from Facebook’s ever-expanding functionality and the growing trend of people networking across both business and social channels.

As commercial director, Bulmer-Cooke has secured sponsorship from Reebok Fitness, which will support the National Fitness Network throughout year one and will offer discounts to members looking to purchase Reebok products and accessories.

“When people join our community they will find a range of codes and exclusive offers from some of the most exciting suppliers in the fitness industry,” added Bulmer-Cooke.

“The community interaction will be brilliant too, members will be able to share workouts, meal plans and anything else related to fitness.”

The National Fitness Network is launching with a special offer price of £25 for a one-year membership, with plans to run a number of member events in 2017.