News | Bangor Aurora Aquatic & Leisure Complex

Celebrating Community Impact, NCLT’s £3.9 Million Contribution in Social Value for 2024

Jan 22, 2025 |

The Northern Community Leisure Trust (NCLT), in partnership with Serco Leisure, is proud to announce its impressive Social Value (SV) figures for 2024, contributing an amazing £3.9 million to the Ards and North Down Borough. This achievement highlights the essential role local leisure centres play in promoting health, wellbeing, and community connection.

Bringing Ultrasound to North Down

Jan 14, 2025 |

Gillian, a fitness instructor from Bangor Aurora Aquatics & Leisure Complex, is taking a leap into health care.

A Beginner’s Guide to the Swimming Strokes

Jan 08, 2025 | Blog

Get to know your swim strokes with our handy guide! Whether it's breaststroke, freestyle, butterfly or backstroke, swimming is one of the best exercises for improving circulation, muscle tone and weight loss.

Slaying Your New Year's Fitness Goals

Jan 03, 2025 | Blog

A handy set of tips to help you turn those resolutions into revelations

Power Through The Winter Months

Dec 01, 2024 | Blog

With the colder days and darker nights, not to mention cold and flu season, supporting ourselves and loved-ones physically and mentally is not easy.

Upcoming Improvements Coming To Bangor Aurora

Nov 05, 2024 | News

We will be having a couple of upgrades around the centre! Our Main Pool and Diving Pool will be getting their flooring fixed, and our Sports Hall will be getting a brand new floor! We hope these exciting changes will be welcome news to our members and we can't wait for everyone to enjoy these new improvements.

How to Stay Active in Winter

Nov 01, 2024 | Blog

As we get further towards winter, the darker nights and colder weather can make it harder to stay motivated when it comes to exercise. To help you, we’ve put together some simple tips on how to stay active when it’s cold and dark outside.

Lentil and Butternut Squash Dahl

Oct 01, 2024 | Blog

This easy, family friendly vegetarian Dahl recipe makes the perfect midweek dinner. Cooked with red lentils, butternut squash and lots of spices, it's super nutritious, comforting, and delicious!

Why Exercise is Important for the Menopause

Oct 01, 2024 | Blog

While exercise may feel like the last thing that you want to do when you are struggling with menopause symptoms, it can help to counteract some of the specific changes that are going on in your body. Find out more about how exercise can help during the menopause.

Mushroom Tacos Recipe

Sep 01, 2024 | Blog

Spice up your dinner with this Mushroom Taco recipe! A simple meatless and delicious dinner ready in just 20 minutes.

Getting Back to the Gym

Sep 01, 2024 | Blog

Returning to the gym after an extended break can be a struggle. To help you make returning to the gym a bit easier, here are some valuable tips to keep in mind.

Dive into the New School Year with Swimming Lessons

Aug 12, 2024 | Blog

The summer holidays are in full swing, but it won't be long until thoughts turn to back to school! While shopping for school supplies and uniforms are important, it is also a great opportunity to consider enrolling in back-to-school swimming lessons.

Bangor Aurora Becomes Official HYROX Gym!

Aug 08, 2024 | News

HYROX combines running and functional workouts to create this rapidly-growing fitness concept.

Ham and Broccoli Egg Muffins

Aug 01, 2024 | Blog

Looking for a high-protein breakfast or snack? Try these protein-packed Egg Muffins, which are packed with broccoli, peppers and cheese. Add ham or smoked salmon for extra protein.

Health & Fitness Hub

Jul 01, 2024 | Blog

Whether you’re looking to increase your fitness, manage your weight, reduce your drinking or improve your overall health, here are our top health apps and resources to support your physical and mental wellbeing.

Greek Chicken Salad

Jul 01, 2024 | Blog

Looking for a delicious and healthy lunch idea? Try this refreshing Greek Salad Recipe, which is packed with fresh ingredients and tasty chicken for a protein boost.

Five Health and Wellbeing Benefits of Swimming

Jul 01, 2024 | Blog

In our latest blog, we dive deeper into why swimming is splash-tastic for wellbeing and why you should make it a regular part of your fitness routine.

Drowning Prevention Week 2024 – learning a life skill

Jun 10, 2024 | Blog

Drowning Prevention Week which aims to raise awareness of water safety ahead of summer, where the risk to the public through accidental drowning increases significantly.

Easy Veggie Sushi Recipe

Jun 01, 2024 | Blog

Craving something fresh and healthy for lunch? Try out these delicious sushi rolls with avocado, peppers or cucumber for a tasty, homemade treat!

Tips for Preventing Diabetes

May 22, 2024 | Blog

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent type 2 diabetes, certain lifestyle choices and habits can significantly reduce your risk of developing diabetes. By making healthy choices and staying active you can take control of your health and work towards preventing the disease.

5 Ways to Boost Your Mental Health

May 03, 2024 | Blog

When was the last time you took some time to reflect on your mental wellbeing? Here are five ways to boost your mental health.

Recipe of the month - Super Healthy Veggie Burritos!

May 01, 2024 | Blog

Check out our healthy Mexican dish. You get all the great taste of the herbs and spices but also have an eye on your fitness goals!

Tips for Working Out in Summer Heat

May 01, 2024 | Blog

We have some helpful tips for working out smarter - not harder - in warm weather.

Train for the NPLQ Gen 10 with us – now worth 8 UCAS tariff points

May 01, 2024 | News

From May 2024, the Royal Life Saving Society UK’s (RLSS UK) new Generation 10 NPLQ qualification will be worth 8 UCAS points to anyone successfully completing the independent assessment.

Discover The Joys Of Swim Teaching With The #LoveSwimming Campaign

Apr 16, 2024 | Blog

The #LoveSwimming Wave 13 campaign, aims to highlight the vital community value of swimming teachers, who play an essential role in ensuring people find confidence in the water.

Why exercise does wonders for your mental health

Apr 03, 2024 | Blog

Learn more about how exercising can benefit your mental wellbeing, whether that be in the gym, a workout class or at home!

Delicious Protein-Packed Chicken Skewers Recipe

Apr 01, 2024 | Blog

Try this Mediterranean inspired dish – it’s packed with 41g of protein to keep you fuller for longer as well as nutritious veggies.

Becoming Fitter for the Future

Mar 01, 2024 | News

We are committed to addressing environmental and climate emergencies, whilst supporting the net zero carbon ambitions of our centre and wider society.

Recipe of the month - Easter egg biscuits

Mar 01, 2024 | Blog

Get the family involved and get creative with these decorative Easter egg biscuits!

5 ways to make the most of the clocks going forward

Mar 01, 2024 | Blog

The longer, brighter spring days are an ideal time to get active and increase your social schedule.

Health & Fitness Tips for Ramadan

Feb 06, 2024 | Blog

This year we are doing more to support our members during Ramadan. Check out our helpful blog for some health & fitness tips for Ramadan, which includes a Low Impact Workout you can do from home or at the gym!

How to Optimise Your Time at the Gym

Feb 05, 2024 | Blog

To help you maximise your gym experience we have compiled eight valuable tips on how to make the most out of your visits.

Protein Pancakes Recipe

Feb 01, 2024 | Blog

We’ve got a scrumptious Protein Pancakes recipe for you — perfect for breakfast, a post workout snack or to enjoy on pancake day!

The Benefits of Different Areas of the Gym

Jan 05, 2024 | Blog

Each area of the gym offers unique benefits that contribute to a well-rounded fitness routine. Read our blog to learn more about the advantages of different areas within the gym.

Roasted Aubergine Curry Recipe

Jan 03, 2024 | Blog

To celebrate Veganuary we are sharing this mega-tasty Roasted Aubergine Curry recipe! It's full of veggie goodness and health boosting spices, whilst being completely plant-based and delicious!

Wellbeing Zone

Jan 01, 2024 | Blog

A place to find some free, relaxing activities to help support your mental wellbeing, including adult colouring, mindfulness videos, free downloadable activities and more.

Spiced Apple & Cranberry Porridge

Dec 07, 2023 | Blog

A warm bowl of this Spiced Apple & Cranberry Porridge is the perfect way to start these cold mornings. Packed with nutritious fruit, festive flavours, and protein-boosting oats to help keep you fuller for longer.

Blue Mind - Why being near water makes you feel happier!

Nov 20, 2023 | Blog

Ever wondered why you are drawn to book the holiday near the sea or with a nice swimming pool? Or why parents and children alike report swimming lessons are their favourite extracurricular activity of the week?

Make Theirs Magic Christmas Toy Appeal

Nov 20, 2023 | News

We are delighted to announce that we are launching the Make Theirs Magic Toy Appeal, in partnership with national charity Family Action. Find out how you can support us.

Vegan Lentil Shepherd's Pie

Oct 24, 2023 | Blog

A hearty and delicious meat-free dinner that’s packed with flavour and plant-based goodness. Loaded with veggies and lentils and topped with fluffy mashed potatoes, this Vegan Lentil Shepherd's Pie is winter comfort food at its best!

Swim for a cause at Swimathon 2024

Oct 11, 2023 | Blog

The world’s largest annual fundraising swim is BACK in April 2024 with a challenge for everyone. Find out what it involves and how you can register.

The Backstroke – your secret weapon for swimming.

Oct 03, 2023 | Blog

A look at why the backstroke is the perfect stroke to improve your fitness.

High-Protein Cauliflower, Paneer & Pea Curry Recipe

Sep 27, 2023 | Blog

World Vegetarian Day is on 1st October, so this month's recipe is all about the health boosting power of plants! We love this Cauliflower, Paneer & Pea Curry recipe, which is super tasty, low in fat and easy to make.

Boditrax: Measure What Matters

Sep 01, 2023 |

Boditrax is a body composition tool that measures so much more than your BMI and in only 30 seconds too! Boditrax gives you a great overview of your health and can be used to set achievable targets.

Protein-Packed Fish Finger Wrap Recipe

Sep 01, 2023 | Blog

To celebrate World Heart Day on 29th September, why not try this heart-healthy Fish Finger Wrap recipe? It’s packed with protein and is a great way to get some nutritious fish into your diet!

Bangor Aurora Fitness Instructor in Final of ukactive Awards

Aug 25, 2023 | News

Elaine Hutton is in the running to win a prestigious ukactive Award 2023.

Vanilla Berry Protein Smoothie Recipe

Aug 03, 2023 | Blog

This delicious Vanilla Berry Protein Smoothie provides a great balance of essential vitamins, healthy fats and protein.

How to find your exercise mojo - and keep it

Jul 25, 2023 |

So the year is flying by and you’ve just realised you haven’t been to the gym in weeks – and it’s clear your latest fitness resolutions went out the window months back! It happens. Here’s how to fix it.

Exciting upgrades at Bangor Aurora & Queens Leisure Complex!

Jul 24, 2023 | News

Northern Community Leisure Trust has recently completed an exciting development project, which has seen Queens Leisure Complex and Bangor Aurora given a revamp with some new and improved facilities.

Mini Quiches with Strawberry and Feta Salad Recipe

Jul 03, 2023 | Blog

These Mini Quiches with ham and cheese are perfect for lunch and can be made ahead of time. Serve it with this Strawberry and Feta Salad, which is packed with nutritious fruit and veggies.

Our MORE Fitness app is now My MORE App

May 29, 2023 | News

Update now to get the new and improved My MORE App

Lentil Bolognese Recipe

Apr 26, 2023 | Blog

To celebrate National Vegetarian Week, why not try our delicious lentil bolognese recipe? Lentils are packed with protein helping you to stay fuller for longer.

Kids' Zone

Apr 03, 2023 | Blog

Free downloads, craft ideas and fun activities to keep the kids busy and active over the school holidays.

Six Reasons to Prioritise Your Beauty Sleep

Mar 13, 2023 | Blog

If you’re struggling to get a good night’s sleep, join the club. We need our sleep, and here’s why.

Blueberry Baked Oats Recipe

Mar 01, 2023 | Blog

Power yourself through the day with our tasty Blueberry Baked Oats. It's healthy, delicious and so easy to make - you can prepare it in advance and bake in the morning!

The Benefits of Personal Training

Feb 20, 2023 | Blog

Working with one of our expert Personal Trainers can be one of the best investments you can make for your health and fitness.

Recipe of the month - Healthy Pancakes

Feb 19, 2023 | Blog

Pancake Day may not be 'til March this year, but life's definitely BATTER with pancakes, for breakfast, lunch or dinner! Check out our healthy pancake recipe for some flipping-good fun at home this Half Term for all the family.

The Benefits of Les Mills Classes

Feb 01, 2023 | Blog

To celebrate the launch of our new Les Mills routines, we are giving you the low-down of the types of Les Mills classes we offer.

Vegan Bean Chilli Recipe

Jan 04, 2023 | Blog

Bring a little fire to your Veganuary dinner time with this healthy and delicious Vegan Bean Chilli.

Sticking to those New Year's Resolutions

Jan 01, 2023 | Blog

A handy set of tips to help you turn those resolutions into revelations

Aquaphobia: Does water make you anxious?

Nov 21, 2022 | Blog

Water is one of the most common fears that people have - especially adults . The fear that people have for water can usually be defined as Aquaphobia – and it can come with a whole range of differing symptoms.

Vegan curry with chickpea, tomato & spinach

Nov 01, 2022 | Blog

To celebrate World Vegan Day, we’re sharing this super healthy curry recipe! It’s fully vegan, it counts as two of your five-a-day, and it’s delicious, if we do say so ourselves. Enjoy!

The Four Types of Exerciser - Which one are you?

Oct 11, 2022 | Blog

Work out your exercise personality to help you get the most out of your workout

Learn to swim through our MORE Swimming Academy

Sep 30, 2022 | Blog

A look at the MORE Swimming learning framework and the different types of lesson.

Freshly Made Beef Meatballs

Sep 05, 2022 | Blog

Try our tasty meatball recipe

How to stretch like a pro!

Aug 30, 2022 | Blog

Expert stretching techniques, tips and advice.

Fresh and Healthy Coronation Chicken

Aug 04, 2022 |

Try this delicious Afternoon Tea favourite

Our Leisure Waters are back!

Aug 02, 2022 |

We’re delighted to tell you that Bangor Aurora’s famous Leisure Waters attraction is back in action...

Healthy Banana Muffins

Aug 01, 2022 | Blog

Round up the family and enjoy these healthy snacks

Health & Fitness Jargon Explained

Aug 01, 2022 | Blog

A guide to explain the ever-growing world of gym jargon

Prawn Satay Noodle Salad

Jul 19, 2022 | Blog

Try out our super summer satay seafood salad!

Training for your cycle

Jul 07, 2022 |

How to ease the struggle of exercising during your period.

Swimming Toys and Games

Jun 13, 2022 | News

A look into how swimming toys and equipment can enhance fun in the water!

LES MILLS: When’s the ideal time to workout?

Jun 07, 2022 | Blog

A look at research that attempts to answer an age old question - when is the best time to exercise?

From Tummy to Tots: A Child’s First Independent Swim!

May 30, 2022 | Blog

A look at how adults can encourage children whilst they become more confident in water.

Rainbow Fruit Skewers

May 27, 2022 | Blog

To celebrate Pride month, try these rainbow fruit skewers, a fun and healthy dessert throughout the summer!

Veggie Miso Burgers

Apr 26, 2022 | Blog

Try these tasty vegetarian miso burgers – go great with chips and coleslaw.

The smartest pre-holiday fitness preparation

Apr 21, 2022 | Blog

Why HIIT workouts are the best way to build strength, muscle mass and aerobic fitness.

From Tummy to Tots: An Introduction to Water

Apr 20, 2022 | Blog

Welcome to our three-month mini-series taking you on a journey exploring the fantastic benefits of the water from pregnancy through to toddlers taking their first independent swims.

From Tummy to Tots: The Benefits of Antenatal Swimming

Mar 14, 2022 | Blog

Welcome to our three-month mini-series taking you on a journey exploring the fantastic benefits of the water. This month our National Aquatics Training Lead, Lynn Goring-Crook, kicks off this series by introducing the benefits of antenatal swimming for Mum and baby.

A handy guide to help with your first time at the gym

Mar 01, 2022 | Blog

We all know that walking into a gym for the first time can be a daunting experience, but we're here to try and take some of that stress away.

Breathe Easy: How to control your breathing when swimming

Feb 14, 2022 | Blog

A handy breathing exercise to warm-up the mind and ensure you’re ready for your session in the water.

How much will exercise affect your weight?

Feb 07, 2022 | Blog

Discover the truth about how exercise can affect weight loss.

Top tips for your child's First Swimming Lesson

Jan 14, 2022 | Blog

Lynn Goring-Crook, our National Aquatic Training Lead, is here to share tips and advice before your child’s first swimming lesson.

The first rule of New Year's Resolutions

Dec 13, 2021 | Blog

Motivation expert Professor David E. Conroy talks about what helps get us moving, and how to set realistic goals we can stick to.

A beginner’s guide to swimming

Dec 08, 2021 | Blog

We know that you may feel a little out of place amongst more experienced swimmers, but remember that everybody has to begin somewhere.

Christmas Family Workouts

Dec 02, 2021 | Blog

Want to look after your 'elf and fitness over the festive season? Here's a selection of fun Christmas workouts to get you moving from your head to your mistle-toes!

Which swim strokes are best for exercise and weight loss?

Nov 08, 2021 | Blog

Our National Aquatics Training Lead is here to share some of the physical benefits of swimming, including the best swim strokes for physical exercise and weight loss.

Why being a swimming teacher is the best job in the world!

Nov 01, 2021 | Blog

Have you ever thought about becoming a swimming teacher?

Everything you need to know about Yoga!

Oct 12, 2021 | Blog

Our fitness team is here to tell you more about the benefits of Yoga for your mind and body, whether you’re looking to learn about Yoga poses or to join your first Yoga class.

Top tips for successful weight management

Sep 24, 2021 | Blog

Find out more here about our 10 Week Weight Management programme and our top tips for successful weight management.

Why swimming lessons are for adults too

Sep 20, 2021 | Blog

With schools back and many returning to a new routine after so long, Helen Bull, our National Commercial Aquatics Manager, is here to tell you more about our fantastic adult swimming lessons.

The Power of Group Exercise

Sep 13, 2021 | Blog

Our fitness team is back in our latest blog, highlighting the many benefits of group exercise classes. Read on to find out more.

The importance of Body Balanced Training

Aug 16, 2021 | Blog

Whatever your fitness levels and fitness goals, it is important to follow an exercise programme that supports a balanced body – our fitness team is here to explain why.

Scales Vs Bodyfat:

Jul 05, 2021 | Blog

What does ‘weight loss’ really mean?

How to fuel your workout

May 21, 2021 | Blog

Did you know, to ensure you can power through a workout and recover effectively, carbohydrates are an essential part of your diet? Our nutrition team is here to tell you more…

Low intensity exercise vs high intensity exercise

May 10, 2021 | Blog

Lately, we’ve been walking more than ever before, but how does a low intensity exercise such as walking, really stack up verses a session at the gym or a workout class in the pool. Our fitness team are here to spill the beans.

Exercise and mental health: how we can help you feel great again!

Apr 28, 2021 | Blog

Has this last year left you feeling in need of some positivity and maybe a bucket full of energy again? Us too!

Returning to fitness after lockdown

Apr 15, 2021 | Blog

Exercising is sometimes easier said than done, EVEN when we know the benefits. Finding ways to overcome these common hurdles is often more important than the exercise itself. We’re here to help!

Do I need a protein shake?

Mar 22, 2021 | Blog

Your body needs protein to build muscles but do you need supplements?

Training Methods 101

Mar 08, 2021 | Blog

Making yourself endure a workout that you don’t enjoy is not the best approach for starting a long-lasting fitness routine.

Fat fact busters: Why low fat doesn’t always mean healthy

Mar 01, 2021 | Blog

When we embark on a healthier eating journey, the first thing people often reach for are the low fat alternatives.

Missing the pool? Keep swim fit at home!

Feb 15, 2021 | Blog

According to Swim England, swimming has improved the mental health of 1.4 million adults in Britain.

Slowly, slowly smash those goals!

Feb 10, 2021 | Blog

It’s far too easy to develop a negative mindset towards your health and fitness.

For the love of food

Feb 01, 2021 | Blog

It’s easy to forget that food is much more than just calories.

Get your fitness on track the right way

Jan 06, 2021 | Blog

Let's get back into a routine with these helpful tips!

New Year, New Approach

Jan 04, 2021 | Blog

Well, that was 2020 – a year that no one was prepared for!

Annual General Meeting of the Northern Community Leisure Trust

Dec 02, 2020 | News

Making time for me

Nov 19, 2020 | Blog

Christmas is officially just around the corner - you really don’t need a reminder!

10 tips to keep moving at home

Nov 12, 2020 | Blog

From star jumping with the toaster to lifting cans of beans – Let’s keep moving!