Free fitness sessions to get girls active
NUFFIELD Health and Berkshire Youth’s Waterside Centre have teamed up to offer free fitness sessions for young girls.
The weekly sessions are open to girls between 11 and 16 years old in the bid to get them more active.
Niamh Smith, personal trainer at Nuffield Health, in Newbury, said that girls in this age range are the most sedentary of all ages so the classes are an opportunity to get them more active.
The former Pangbourne College student also said that these girls may not have access to gyms, be able to afford a gym membership or feel comfortable stepping into what often feels like an intimidating environment.
She said: “They’re at an age where you become conscious of how you look and you start to wear makeup.
“You see these Instagram influencers who have got the perfect body and girls want to be like them.”
But the 24-year-old said
social media has also promoted fitness, despite it often being via influencers and paid promotions.
“Even the big influencers like Molly Mae are promoting gym wear,” she said.
“People see the benefits of exercising, especially with mental health issues on the rise.
“We are learning more now that exercise is really good for your mental health.”
The sessions are tailored to the age and ability of the attendees.
They begin with a warm up followed by group activities that are fun and not difficult.
The sessions also provide social opportunities and offer a chance to make friends outside of school.
This is a nationally run scheme and more information can be found on the Nuffield Health website.