Gym access for under 16s - Inverness Leisure

Gym access policy for under 16s

High Life Highland is committed to providing safe and age-appropriate access to gym facilities for young people. The following guidelines outline induction requirements, supervision expectations, and age-specific equipment access.

Induction and supervision

• All customers must complete a fitness induction before using gym or strength areas.
• A PAR-Q (Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire) must be completed before using any fitness equipment.
• Under 16s must have a PAR-Q form signed by a parent or guardian.
• Young people must either:
  • Be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or responsible adult (18+) who has also completed an induction,
    or
  • Attend during a supervised session, class, or when permanent gym staff are present.
• It is recommended that youth participants follow a structured fitness programme during their visits.

Age-specific equipment access

Ages 11–13

• May use stretching areas, light dumbbells, cardio machines, and fixed resistance equipment (subject to height restrictions).
• Not permitted to use free weights or plate-loaded equipment.

Ages 14–15

• May use free weights and plate-loaded equipment only after completing a competency assessment (Second Induction), available at selected High Life Highland gyms.

Adult supervision is required for individuals under 16 years of age after 18:30 Monday - Friday. The supervision ratio is 1 adult for every 3 minors. The responsible adult must remain within sight of the minors, ensuring they can observe their activities at all times to guarantee they are employing the correct techniques and utilizing the machines for which they have received induction.