With professional coaches leading the sessions, the gym hopes to inspire the next generation of boxing stars, following in the footsteps of champions like Nicola Adams and Anthony Joshua
A new boxing gym offering free fitness sessions for young people has opened in Roehampton, with founder Yusuf Lagden determined to create a space that fosters confidence, discipline, and respect among the next generation.
Lennox Boxing Gym, known as LNX, is based in the former Lennox Youth Club on Arabella Drive. Lagden, 26, who was born in Tooting and grew up on the Ashburton Estate in Putney, is passionate about using sport to support the local community.
“It’s a fun and relaxed space, but we are here to train,” he said. “I want to see kids do well, get fitter, and learn how to manage their emotions.”
The site has been leased to Lagden’s community interest company by Wandsworth Council for the next 15 years. With a background spanning organisations such as Chelsea Football Club, an electric scooter start-up, and a construction consultancy, Lagden brought a wealth of skills to the project, which has seen the 1990s building undergo a major refurbishment.
Total Transformation
“It’s a total transformation and it’s taken a long time,” Lagden said, highlighting the extensive work involved in rewiring the building, laying new flooring, and installing a new kitchen and bathroom. “A lot of effort has gone into this place, so we really want to make it work.”
Now open and providing free sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays, the gym offers training from 4.15pm to 5.15pm for 10 to 13-year-olds and from 5.30pm to 6.45pm for 14 to 17-year-olds.
“The aim of Lennox Boxing Gym is to engage with more young people in this area, get them involved in fitness, and provide some mentoring so they can better their lives,” Lagden said. The project has also received support from local charity Regenerate.
“It’s a welcoming space for girls and boys, and we want to help improve their confidence and self-esteem.”
With professional coaches leading the sessions, which can be booked for free via the LNX website, the gym hopes to inspire the next generation of boxing stars, following in the footsteps of champions like Nicola Adams and Anthony Joshua.
We really value Yusuf’s contribution to the local community and his commitment to helping young people thrive. Getting active and learning a new sport are great ways of boosting health, wellbeing, and confidence
Judi Gasser, Cabinet Member for Environment
Ten-year-old Freddie, who joined the sessions earlier this year, praised the training. “The coaches are really good, they help you a lot. I love being physical and they really push you to the highest expectations.”
For fellow 10-year-old Kamil, the opportunity to use the gym’s punch bags has been a highlight. “I really like it,” he said. “I like boxing a lot.”
The gym was officially opened on 6 February by the Mayor of Wandsworth, Sana Jafri, in a ceremony celebrating the new facility.
Judi Gasser, Wandsworth Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, praised Lagden’s dedication. “We really value Yusuf’s contribution to the local community and his commitment to helping young people thrive. Getting active and learning a new sport are great ways of boosting health, wellbeing, and confidence.”
