Technology

Posted on April 8, 2019 by staff

Centre combines gaming with fitness

Technology

A new centre that combines gaming, the latest technology and fitness has opened its doors in the North West.

Alternate States in Rochdale promises an unmatched unique virtual reality experience and is aimed at gamers, families and fitness fanatics.

The state-of-the-art VR technology includes the Omni, a treadmill-based 360 degree VR experience that puts users in the middle of shoot ‘em up, adventure arcade; Icaros, which allows users to fly, dive or drive through a selection of virtual worlds; and Vive, which provides virtual chills and thrills in worlds as diverse as medieval castles and deep space.

Founder Jake White said: “Alternate States takes VR one step further. There’s lots here to thrill gamers, but also there’s plenty for families and groups of friends to do. The focus is very much on Alternate States being an activity centre rather than a gaming arcade. Everyone will find something that they love doing.”

In another first for the region, Alternate States will be offering VR-based fitness training in classes run by leading physiotherapist Lisa Sharratt, who has worked with professional rugby league teams and the Great Britain aquatics team.

It combines high intensity fitness training with a virtual environment to lift the boredom of traditional treadmill running or lane swimming.

Alternate States will also offer VR-based team building days developed by experienced corporate trainer and author Sheridan King.

The business has been supported by Rochdale Development Agency (RDA). White recently joined the Rochdale Ambassadors scheme, which is promoting the town as a place for business.

  • Alternate States opened on April 8 in the old library building, Castleton. For more information see alternatestates.com.