Leisure centres across York are set to hold a free community sports weekend – with the help of a Team England cyclist from York.
York-based Abi Miller, a professional track and road cyclist who is set to make her debut for Team England at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, will officially launch a weekend of free sporting activities at Better leisure centres across York.
Better has partnered with Team England to host Team England’s National Sports Weekend – a Commonwealth Games-inspired Open Weekend on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 July.
Abi, who is the youngest member of Team England’s women’s endurance cycling squad, will kick off the celebrations on the Saturday by taking part in a fun ‘Beat the Cyclist’ challenge at Energise Leisure Centre.
Visitors will have the chance to take on Abi in a timed spin bike challenge to see if they can beat the Commonwealth Games-bound cyclist’s time.
Over the free community-focused weekend, people of all ages and abilities are invited to discover a new sport, get active and enjoy a wide range of activities at Better leisure centres across the city.
Open to both members and non-members, the weekend offers the perfect opportunity for families, friends and individuals to experience everything their local leisure centre has to offer.
Participating centres including Burnholme Sports Centre, Energise Leisure Centre, Yearsley Swimming Pool and York Leisure Centre will offer a programme of free or reduced priced activities.
The host of sessions include:
- A series of running and walking netball taster sessions in partnership with England Netball
- Basketball 3V3 tournament hosted by York Jorviks
- Fitness classes, including strength and conditioning, circuits and spin.
- Introductory gym trials for adults and juniors where leisure centre staff will be on hand to demonstrate the range of state-of-the-art equipment and advise on the best ways to achieve fitness goals
- Basketball, pickleball, badminton, table tennis and tennis taster sessions
- Swim school and water safety taster sessions for five to 11-year olds where youngster’s swimming skills will be put to the test and they’ll learn about the water safety code
- Roller skating experience for novices or seasoned skaters.
“We’re delighted to be partnering with Team England to celebrate the 2026 Commonwealth Games by giving local people the chance to try something new for free,” said Natalie Thomas, GLL’s Community Sports Manager for York.
“Whether you’ve always wanted to learn a new sport, get back into exercise or simply enjoy an active day out with family and friends, there’s something for everyone across the weekend.
“We hope as many local residents as possible will come along, have a go and discover what’s available at their local Better leisure centre.”
It’s recommended that sessions are booked in advance due to limited spaces.
Members can secure their place via the Better UK app or speak to the centre team. Further details and booking instructions for non-members can be accessed here.
