Xercise4Less founder Jon Wright has been praised for his efforts in trying to help reverse the childhood obesity epidemic in the UK, winning the annual International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) European Club Leadership Award.

The prize, which was presented on Monday (October 23) in London, England, during the association’s 17th Annual European Congress, recognises a leader who has advanced their company and the industry through leadership and performance.

“Nine years ago, Jon Wright saw a gap in the UK industry. He believed there was a need and demand for a low-cost gym with affordable, accessible facilities and a robust group exercise offering,” said Derek Gallup, chair of the IHRSA board of directors, on presenting the award. “Xercise4Less - or the ‘People’s Gym’ as it is popularly known - was born.

“In an effort to contribute to reversing the childhood obesity epidemic, Jon and his team launched the Xercise4Kids programme, for kids ages three to five, two years ago.”

The scheme encourages families to exercise together. Classes, which are free to non-members and members, are set up so that a parent or caregiver takes part with the child.

The company has also created its own fitness app, which has helped with retention, according to Wright.

After winning his award, Wright told Health Club Management: “In every area, we have always looked to make fitness more accessible to the masses. Whether it was rolling out our Xercise4Kids programme in a bid to tackle the growing childhood obesity crisis, or launching an app to make interaction between members and personal trainers quicker and easier – we will continue to listen to the needs of our members and look to bring more affordable fitness to the UK.”

The operator serves 350,000 members in 48 clubs in the UK.