New boxing gym transforms Lennox Youth Club

“Confidence, discipline and respect are just some of the benefits boxing gives to young people,” says Lennox boxing gym founder Yusuf Lagden.

Launching a new boxing gym with free fitness sessions for youngsters, the 26-year-old is determined to help grow the next generation of positive, healthy and community-minded residents.

The gym – known as LNX – is based in the former Lennox Youth Club in Roehampton’s Arabella Drive.

“It’s a fun and relaxed space, but we are here to train,” points out Tooting-born Yusuf, who grew up on the Ashburton Estate in Putney with a passion for sports. “I want to see kids do well, get fitter and learn how to manage their emotions.”

The site has been leased to Yusuf’s community interest company by Wandsworth Council for the next 15 years.

Having worked at organisations including Chelsea Football Club, an electric scooter start-up and a construction consultancy, Yusuf brought an array of skills to the project to revamp the 1990s building.

'Total transformation'

“It’s a total transformation and it’s taken a long time,” adds Yusuf, whose team has rewired the building, put down new flooring and installed a new kitchen and bathroom as part of the makeover. “A lot of effort has gone into this place so we really want to make it work.”

Now open and offering free sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays, the gym runs training from 4.15-5.15pm for 10 to 13-year-olds and 5.30-6.45pm for 14 to 17-year-olds.

“The aim of the Lennox boxing gym is to engage with more young people from this area, get them involved in fitness and provide some mentoring so they can better their lives,” says Yusuf, who has also been supported by the team behind 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 running the sessions – which can be booked free on the LNX website  – it could be just a matter of time before the club nurtures the next Nicola Adams or Anthony Joshua.

“The coaches are really good, they help you a lot,” says 10-year-old Freddie, who started attending the boxing sessions at the start of the year. “I love being physical and they really push you to the highest expectations.”

For 10-year-old Kamil, having chance to try out equipment like the gym’s punch bags makes the sessions fun, while he has made friends and gained confidence. “I really like it,” he adds. “I like boxing a lot.”

Mayor of Wandsworth launch

The gym was officially opened by the Mayor of Wandsworth Sana Jafri on 6 February, in an event celebrating the new space.

Judi Gasser, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: “We really value Yusuf’s contribution to the local community and commitment to helping young people to thrive.

“Getting active and learning a new sport are great ways of boosting health, wellbeing and confidence.”  

If you would like inspiration to get more active, check out ideas to help you take part in our 2025 Movement Challenge.

You can also find out about the council’s Access for All scheme and see if you are eligible for offers including free or discounted swimming sessions, free tennis and padel equipment and free or discounted gym membership.