Horizon Leisure makes real customers the ‘faces of Horizon’ for real wellbeing
Charitable leisure trust Horizon Leisure asked its customers: “Who wants to be the face of the brand?” Now, instead of using models or stock images, they feature real people and customers in all of their marketing.
In an era where many images are created or enhanced with AI, showcasing authenticity is vital to Horizon Leisure.
Marketing Manager Alexandra Pinhorn says: “We want to be realistic about what people’s bodies look like. By prioritising honest relationships in our promotions, we adopt realistic expectations about body diversity and celebrate what our customers actually look like. This makes fitness and wellbeing more approachable and not so intimidating.
You don’t need to look or dress a certain way to come to our leisure centres. Bodies sweat and bodies wobble, but what’s more important is our bodies work! The faces of Horizon Leisure are not professional models, our focus is on personality, rather than perfection.
“You don’t need to look or dress a certain way to come to our leisure centres. Bodies sweat and bodies wobble, but what’s more important is our bodies work! The faces of Horizon Leisure are not professional models, our focus is on personality, rather than perfection.”
A story of wellbeing
Many of Horizon Leisure’s ‘models’ have stepped out of their comfort zone to take part, with one member saying: “After losing my mum in 2022, the routine of Horizon's classes helped me cope. Some days were tough, but the friendly faces and chats at the gym made a real difference.
Horizon has been amazing for my wellbeing and becoming a ‘Face of Horizon’ felt like a way to give back to a place I love. If seeing me on their promotions inspires someone else to step out of their comfort zone, it’s all worth it.
It’s not about how you look, but how you feel!
By using customers as the ‘Face of Horizon’, Horizon Leisure is reinforcing a key message that you don’t need to look like a fitness model or wear skintight lycra to feel at home there. It’s not about what you wear; it’s about how you feel.
They say that as long as you’re comfortable and can move, you’re ready to show up for yourself. Their centres at Waterlooville and Havant aren’t a fashion show but are safe spaces where real people go to work out, move their bodies and focus on their health and wellbeing. So leave the pressure behind, wear what feels good, and join a community where it’s all about feeling better, not looking perfect.
Discover all that Horizon Leisure has to offer! From walking football and netball to public swimming, swimming lessons and dance workouts, there’s something for everyone. Explore rehab classes, yoga sessions, baby groups, soft play adventures, youth clubs, gymnastics and so much more. Whatever your age or ability, you’ll find activities to move, play, and thrive!
To find out more, please visit their website