Graham has visited Beverley Combat Academy to hear concerns about rising costs facing independent gyms working with young people across the area.
The academy was founded by Sam Wilkinson, a former professional mixed martial artist who returned to Beverley to build a community-focused gym supporting people of all ages and abilities.
Sam has competed as an amateur boxer, kickboxer and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu athlete, holds a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and has competed in 34 fights and won national-level grappling medals. After coaching internationally, including in Australia and the Middle East, he returned to Beverley to establish the academy.
During the visit, Graham met staff and members and heard how the gym works with young people to build confidence, discipline and healthy routines through sport and fitness.
The academy supports everyone from complete beginners to competitive athletes and focuses on both physical and mental wellbeing.
Sam also raised concerns about business rates, energy costs and the growing pressures facing independent gyms and community fitness facilities.
He warned that independent gyms helping improve public health and reduce long-term pressure on NHS services are not being treated fairly within the current business rates system.
Sam also highlighted the imbalance between independent gyms and council-run leisure facilities, which do not face the same commercial pressures around rates and overheads.
The visit forms part of Graham’s wider work highlighting the pressure rising costs are placing on local employers, community organisations and businesses creating opportunities for young people across Beverley and Holderness.
The business employs a specialist coaching team with experience across MMA, boxing, wrestling and strength and conditioning. Facilities include a large grappling mat area, a full weights and cardio gym, an infrared sauna and a wellness room.
Graham said: “Businesses like this are doing vital work for young people and the wider community, while facing the same rising costs hitting employers across East Yorkshire.”
“They are helping young people build confidence and discipline, improving physical and mental health, and strengthening the local community.
“If we want young people to have confidence, discipline and proper opportunities close to home, we need to back the organisations helping provide them.
“Independent gyms helping young people and keeping people active deserve a fair deal.”
Owner Sam Wilkinson said: “Independent gyms like ours are about much more than fitness. We work with people of all ages and backgrounds, helping build confidence, discipline and better mental and physical health.”
“Young people in particular need positive environments, good role models and somewhere they can challenge themselves and belong.”
“We’re trying to keep membership affordable and keep helping the community, but rising costs and business rates are making things harder for independent gyms.”
“I’m grateful to Graham for listening to the pressures local businesses are facing and taking the time to come and see what we’re building here in Beverley.”
