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A North East fitness firm launched by entrepreneur Sir Graham Wylie is opening its 40th studio in the North East.

Speedflex was first launched eight years ago by Sage founder Sir Graham, who was given a knighthood in the New Year’s Honours list, one-time Newcastle United physio Paul Ferris and former England and NUFC striker Alan Shearer.

The Speedflex system uses revolutionary fitness machines which were originally designed to help brain trauma and stroke patients in their rehabilitation.

Unlike typical exercise machines, Speedflex does not use weights and instead has “free-motion boards”, which returns force put in by the person exercising on it, meaning anyone can use them, regardless of age or ability.

Now the firm has teamed up with GoGateshead, the local authority-backed series of gyms and swimming pools across Gateshead, to open its latest state-of-the-art fitness suite at Gateshead International Stadium.

The venue is the third largest sporting venue in Tyne and Wear and the North East’s only IAAF-standard athletics stadium.

The opening follows Speedflex’s successful year to date, having secured several landmark deals, including opening in No1 Gym in Ponteland, Northumberland, and Coral Longford Leisure, Ireland.

This year will see the Speedflex success continue, with its concept being rolled out to 25 more sites across the º£½ÇÊÓƵ.