Woman, 27, dies on gym treadmill

The 27-year-old, who has not yet been named, is believed to have had a heart attack while on the machine at Hillsborough Leisure Centre.

She was helped by staff and gym users until paramedics arrived and rushed her to the city's Northern General Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

Lorenzo Clark, director of operations for Sheffield International Venues, which runs Hillsborough Leisure Centre, described the death as tragic.

"We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident and our sympathies and condolences go out to the woman's family and friends.

"We are now liaising with South Yorkshire Police. Full support has also been offered to staff following this incident."

Mr Clark said all gym members had an assessment before they were allowed to start using the fitness equipment.

He said: "All new members complete an induction and Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire, which would identify any health problems and risk of exercise.

"In the gym, members complete two inductions when they are shown how to use the equipment by specialist gym staff and there is also the opportunity to ask any questions.

"Staff regularly interact with members, working to prepare appropriate fitness programmes and offer any ongoing support and guidance. Our gyms are fully staffed at all times and all staff are trained in first aid. "

A South Yorkshire Police spokesman said the woman was believed to have had a cardiac arrest.

A post-mortem examination to establish the cause of death was yet to be held.

The gym was closed after the incident on Sunday morning while investigations went ahead.