Now in their third year, the awards aim to commend professionals working in Liverpool’s developing fitness and wellness sectors and were held at The Isla Gladstone. Jennie Lewis reports

Online health, fitness and wellbeing directory, Checkfit, which offers an invaluable guide to hundreds of gyms and sports clubs across Merseyside was named best industry newcomer at the Liverpool Fitness Professional Awards on Saturday.

The awards, now in their third year, aim to commend professionals working in Liverpool’s developing fitness and wellness sectors. Awards were announced at a gala dinner at The Isla Gladstone and presented by Radio City 2 presenter Claire Simmo.

Checkfit is described as being like a “Trip Advisor for gyms” and was launched by Liverpool entrepreneurs Stephen Edgerton and Michael Holden earlier this year. It already counts more than 800 gyms, clubs, classes, groups and trainers from across the city region in its growing directory.

Earlier this year, owners announced plans to expand into Manchester by Christmas and conversations with fitness professionals along the M62 are well underway.

The business has also secured an effective working relationship with authorities in Knowsley and will be involved in helping to roll out advice on fitness and wellbeing to people living and working in the area through a series of talks, workshops and wellness days.

Checkfit contains information and reviews on more than 800 gyms, sports clubs, fitness classes and personal trainers across Merseyside, using blogs, images, reviews, facilities, amenities and brief, detailed descriptions.

John Edgerton, has been appointed as full time commercial and operations manager at Checkfit and recently Kieren Veitch-Ventre joined the team as marketing and operations assistant. John has been responsible for building relationships with gyms and providers in the Merseyside area and will play a pivotal role as the company expands in the coming months.

On the win, co-owner Stephen Edgerton said: “It’s hard to believe that last year, Checkfit was just an idea we had. To watch it come into fruition and experience the growth we have is amazing, but it’s testament to the hard work of a dedicated team.

“Michael and I are so pleased with everyone’s efforts and we cannot thank the team enough. We all have an important role to play in achieving the things we have planned for the year ahead. It’s exciting times for us and we’re looking forward to a busy but prosperous 2018.”

The Checkfit team would like to thank everyone that voted for us in the Liverpool Fitness Professional Awards.