CalderGold: Redefining Healthy Ageing in Calderdale

CalderGold Health & Fitness was born from lived experience, deep community roots, and a belief that everyone deserves to feel strong, supported, and confident at every stage of life.

Founded by health coach Robert McDonald, CalderGold represents more than 15 years of experience in the health and fitness industry, combined with a lifelong connection to the Calderdale communities of Greetland, Barkisland, Holywell Green, Stainland, and the surrounding villages. Robert’s guiding motto, “Learn. Serve. Live. Love.” underpins every aspect of the project, shaping not only how CalderGold will operate, but why it exists at all.

A Personal Journey Turned Community Vision

Over the years, Robert has witnessed firsthand the challenges many adults face when trying to stay active and healthy, particularly once they reach their 40s and beyond. Through his own wellbeing journey, and by supporting friends, family, and clients living with long-term health conditions, he recognised a growing problem: the traditional fitness industry simply does not serve everyone.

I have cerebral palsy meaning I have restricted mobility and balance issues, Rob made me feel beyond comfortable, which is something I needed when feeling self-conscious about my disability.

Mainstream gyms often prioritise youth, intensity, and aesthetics, leaving many adults feeling intimidated, overlooked, or unsure where they belong. For those managing joint pain, chronic conditions, reduced mobility, or low confidence, the barriers can feel insurmountable.

Following Robs workout programme and diet advice I had lost my targeted weight and improved my fitness.

CalderGold Health & Fitness was created to address that gap — intentionally, thoughtfully, and locally.

What Is CalderGold Health & Fitness?

CalderGold is a member-owned, co-operative health and fitness centre designed specifically for adults over 40, as well as individuals living with long-term health conditions or seeking a more supportive and accessible approach to exercise.

It brings together fitness, wellbeing, nutrition, and community under one roof, including:

• A main gym focused on progressive, safe strength training

• A specialised gym space for older adults and those requiring lower-impact equipment

• On-site nutrition support and personalised meal plan creation

• A welcoming café and community area to encourage connection

• A co-operative ownership model that gives members a real voice and shared value

  
  

CalderGold is not simply a gym. It is a movement to redefine what healthy ageing looks like across Calderdale, grounded in dignity, inclusivity, and long-term wellbeing.

Nothing was too much for Rob and he was always available. His knowledge and expertise are unquestionable.

Why CalderGold Matters

Robert started this project because too many people feel left behind by the current fitness landscape. CalderGold is built around a different set of priorities:

• Adults over 40 feel seen, understood, and supported

• Long-term health conditions are met with knowledge, not judgment

• Exercise is safe, personal, and achievable

• Community connection is valued as highly as physical strength

• Members actively shape the organisation through co-operative ownership

At its heart, CalderGold is about giving something meaningful back to the community and creating a space where health, confidence, and belonging grow together.

What Members Can Expect

CalderGold Health & Fitness aims to become a trusted local health hub that genuinely improves lives. Members can expect:

• A calm, inclusive environment — never loud, intimidating, or overcrowded

• Tailored programmes based on age, ability, and health needs

• On-site nutrition planning and meal preparation support

• Knowledgeable, empathetic staff who understand ageing and chronic conditions

• A co-operative structure that gives members a voice, vote, and shared benefits

• Workshops, classes, and wellbeing events addressing real-life challenges such as menopause, joint pain, stress, mobility, and building strength after 40

Above all, CalderGold promises something many people have been missing: a place where they truly belong.

Rob was there every step of the way in my journey, with his positive energy and enthusiastic messages. Even when I was having bad days, he was there encouraging me to keep going.

Rooted in Calderdale

CalderGold Health & Fitness will be based in the HX4 and surrounding Calderdale area, serving communities including Greetland, Barkisland, Holywell Green, Stainland, Sowood, Norland, West Vale, and Ripponden.

The aim is simple: to provide high-quality, age-focused fitness and wellbeing support close to home, without the need to travel far or feel out of place.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The project is currently progressing through its 2025–2026 development plan, with a projected grand opening in July 2026. This timeline aligns with facility preparation, equipment installation, co-operative formation, and community membership enrolment.

Throughout 2025 and early 2026, CalderGold will release opportunities for founding members, early supporters, and community involvement — inviting local people to be part of the journey from the very beginning.

To learn more about CalderGold Health & Fitness, explore co-operative membership opportunities, or register your interest in the gym, visit the CalderGold website.