Uncommon Ground co-founder James Scott says his own fitness journey started with playing Nintendo Wii Fit in his living room
Uncommon Ground co-founders Jonny Smith (left) and James Scott.(Image: Uncommon Ground)
A new gym co-founded by two fitness experts has set out to help people of all abilities with their physical and mental health. Uncommon Ground is based at Point Pleasant Industrial Estate off Hadrian Road, and is the work of three-time CrossFit Games semi-finalist James Scott, 31, and adaptive athlete and calisthenics specialist, Jonny Smith, 33.
The pair say they want to offer a space, with fitness coaching to people of all abilities – focussing on “functional fitness”. They want to help members for “ready for everything in life”, from playing with grandchildren to walking up stairs and building strength for longevity.
About £80,000 investment has gone into the gym which current employs four. There are plans to take on more full-time coaches as the business grows, with opportunities for personal training and physio professional to use the space.
James, who has a Masters in Physiotherapy, brings more than 10 years’ coaching experience in weightlifting, CrossFit and functional fitness and has competed in events such as The Castle Games, Northern Championships and Proven Grounds, along with his success in the CrossFit Games. Jonny is a gymnastics specialist and also competes.
Their offer includes classes of varying difficulties, covering cardio in biking, rowing and running, along with accessible bodyweight skills like push ups and beginner options. Uncommon also provides coaching on how to move free weights safely and effectively in movements such as squats and deadlifts, and sessions in more complicated calisthenics and barbell movements.
Uncommon Ground offers coaching for all abilities.(Image: Uncommon Ground)
James, who is head coach at the gym, said: “Getting into fitness is intimidating, so we don’t offer a one-size-fits-all approach. I started my own fitness journey on a Nintendo Wii Fit in my living room, so I know how it feels to start from scratch. Our goal with Uncommon Ground is to build a supportive community where every person can improve their health and wellbeing for life, plus find a place where they belong.”
Uncommon members can also take part in social events including running, hiking, sea swims and litter picks. The founders say the programme is intended to transfer training into real life improvements so people feel stronger and healthier.
Want to see more ChronicleLive stories in Google? Make us a preferred source to see more of our breaking news, exclusives and must-read North East stories. Click here to make ChronicleLive a preferred source.