Physical activity offers more than opportunities to get moving. It can encourage new connections, breaks down barriers and fosters a sense of belonging. No matter your ability, age, background there is a place for all to get active and find what works for them.
Inclusion extends to many different elements of physical activity. Following from the success of the Paris Paralympics, one important factor to consider is the accessible opportunities offered to those living with disabilities and long-term conditions. For many, there is a lack of knowledge about resources, clubs and support available for residents however by developing and enhancing these opportunities more people can engage and feel included.
In Harlow, Active Essex were able to work alongside Sport England utilising their Together Fund to facilitate regular Bounce trampoline fitness sessions for students at Harlow College. These students are all living with a disability and for them this experience has been invaluable as they can access a movement in a safe and inclusive environment. Not only has it become a form of weekly physical activity but also a wellbeing session.
Black History Month aligns with the focus on inclusion this month and it is an opportunity to celebrate the amazing black athletes that have inspired many. From historical figures like Jesse James to Great Britain’s Kelly Holmes, there is an overwhelming amount of black athletes who have paved the way for those looking to get active and try something new. Active Lives data has previously outlined the inactivity levels in black adults and by addressing the reasons for possible exclusion we can begin to address these issues.
Addressing possible barriers to physical activity is something to onset from a young age and the Move With Us campaign is looking to challenge any stereotype or preconceptions associated with certain movements. The campaign encourages young people to find what works for them, regardless of ability, gender and background. If we can support young people in exploring different movements in a safe and inclusive environment, positive experiences will be carried into adulthood. Girls can play football, boys can join a dance class and nothing is off limits if it makes them feel happy, healthy and positive!
Embracing physical activity can bridge gaps, celebrate diversity and make movement truly accessible and inclusive for all.
Visit: www.activeessex.org/find-your-active
https://www.activeessex.org/move-with-us/
Morning and Lunchtime 15 minute online Workouts
Workplace Zoom Sessions:
Monday’s 9:00 – 9.15am: Lindsey – Move and Stretch Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 857 0196 5702
Passcode: 030174
Tuesday’s 12:00 – 12:15 with Chloe Townsend – Lunchtime Energiser Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 830 4829 4750
Passcode: 714925
Wednesday’s 08.45 – 09:00am with Chloe Townsend – Cardio Blast Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 837 396
Thursday’s 09:00 – 09:15 am with Chloe Townsend – Total Tone Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 854 5969 0931
Passcode: 629695
Friday’s 08.45 – 09:00 am with Lindsey Abbott – Move and Stretch Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 837 7303 0512
Passcode: 218151
Workplace Pledge and Active Travel Toolkit
You can download social medial pledge cards, which can be used in emails, to help show what you and your workplace/team will pledge to do. You can also access the Newsletter and other useful resources For more details about the Pledge and to download your Active Travel Toolkit and Workplace guide
Find Your Active is focused on helping people find time to move, get more active and enjoy the benefits. This month it about bringing to focus the importance of workplaces encouraging physical activity.
Working in a busy office can often result in long hours spent at a desk but workplaces and their employees should adopt a new way of working in which physical activity opportunities are injected into every day. This could include creating a 50 minute meeting with a 10 minute stretch to finish which encourages a group movement stretch to relieve aching muscles and energise. Small changes such as this could initiate long-term benefits for both the employees and the workplace.
Not only are there physical benefits to promoting an active workplace but mental benefits also. Activities such as stretching, or yoga can increase serotonin levels and subsequently reduce stress and stabilise one’s mood. In a stressful working environment this could be vital.
Outside of the office, travelling to work is another opportunity to get active! If you can, why not try walking, scooting or cycling into the office to increase your activity levels whilst also doing your bit to reduce the greenhouse emissions and help improve air quality.
Introducing these small changes into your life could help in the long term and increase your energy levels day to day which will reflect in your working life.
To find out more, visit the webpage below, or get in touch to see how we can support.
www.activeessex.org/find-your-active
