Thousands of nominations were submitted by fitness fans across Bolton, putting forward their favourite gyms in a bid to see them crowned the best in the borough.
The final shortlist features a mix of independent gyms, specialist fitness centres and modern training facilities.
Among those selected is Optimal Performance Centre, offering a well-rounded approach to fitness through strength training, cardio, recovery and community-focused training.
The HYROX-affiliated gym aims to “redefine what it means to achieve peak performance” by combining cutting-edge fitness equipment with world-class recovery technologies.
Optimal Performance Centre (Image: NQ)
Located on Dunscar Industrial Estate on Blackburn Road, Optimal Performance Centre opened on September 15, 2025.
The Bolton News spoke to director Curtis Morgan, 35, to find out more about the centre and its community impact.
“We opened with the goal of helping the community and encouraging young people off the streets and into fitness,” said Curtis.
“I found fitness to be a positive path in my own life and wanted to give something back, not just make money.”
Director of Optimal Performance Centre Curtis Morgan (Image: NQ)
Curtis works closely with Be The Change Youth Project alongside its director Daniel Sukula, providing free gym sessions for young people aged 13 to 15.
“Optimal Performance Centre has been really supportive, and we have around 20 young people who come in weekly to train for free,” said Daniel.
“It’s been a big help, and the kids really appreciate having access to the gym and seeing Curtis as a positive role model.”
“Everyone comes in, has a laugh and a joke, and then we get to work” (Image: NQ)
Daniel added that before partnering with Optimal Performance Centre, it was difficult to find a gym in Bolton willing to accommodate young people.
The centre also has a strong competitive focus.
Over the weekend, 15 members of its adult HYROX team competed at an event in Manchester.
HYROX is an indoor fitness competition that combines eight kilometres of running with eight functional workout stations, alternating between running and functional exercises.
“We’re also setting up a HYROX youth team,” Curtis explained.
“We’ve sponsored one of our youth members, Chester Mills, who will be competing at a HYROX event in London.”
13-year-old Chester can already run a 5k in under 20 minutes and will be one to watch at his upcoming HYROX competition in March.
Youngsters from Optimal Performance Centre (Image: NQ)
As well as its hybrid training model, the gym offers boxing classes, a hot yoga studio, a sauna, ice baths, flow tanks and two physiotherapy rooms.
Curtis, who has a background in jiu-jitsu, transitioned into hybrid training after suffering two bicep tears.
Hybrid training combines strength and cardiovascular endurance, aiming to develop well-rounded athletes with both power and stamina.
This style of training is also known for fostering a strong sense of community, something Curtis believes sets the gym apart.
The Optimal Recovery Room (Image: NQ)
“We’ve built a great community with around 90 members,” he said.
“Everyone comes in, has a laugh and a joke, and then we get to work.
“The classes are for all abilities, so everyone feels comfortable.”
Optimal Performance Centre is currently looking to recruit a calisthenics coach and a yoga coach.
It is also offering a seven-day free trial for anyone who has not previously used the facility.
Curtis said anyone interested simply needs to message the centre on Instagram (@optimalperformancecentre) to receive more information.
Daniel Sukula and Curtis Morgan (Image: NQ)
“The majority of people who take us up on the offer end up signing up straight after because they just love it,” he said.
For more information, visit optimalperformancecentre.co.uk.
Voting slips for The Bolton News Best Gym competition are available in print editions of the paper and will be counted over the coming weeks, with the winner set to be announced shortly.