Gym operators and physical activity providers are throwing open their doors today (27 September), offering free taster sessions and gym passes as part of National Fitness Day.

Organised by ukactive, the event aims to reduce inactivity across the UK by encouraging more people to try a new activity or form of exercise.

During the run-up, the non-profit organisation has encouraged operators to give free tasters by opening up regular fitness classes on a complimentary basis or offering a free trial to new members.

At 10am today, pupils at 10,000 schools across the UK will undertake a 10-minute workout together as part of the ‘10 at 10’ project to encourage more activity among children.

The event also challenges office workers to adopt a new fitness routine with colleagues, from a lunchtime walk to a post-work run.

Steven Ward, CEO of ukactive, said: “National Fitness Day is a fun day with a serious message – physical inactivity is society’s silent killer and the best way to keep it at bay is to get up on our feet and enjoy the thrill of being active.”

“National Fitness Day is a fantastic opportunity to encourage greater participation in physical activity, in line with our sports strategy,” said sports minister Tracey Crouch MP.

For more information and details of events visit the National Fitness Day website.

National Fitness Day was founded by Jan Spaticchia, CEO of the énergie Group, in 2011. It was gifted to ukactive in 2014.