Mayor Opens Hailsham Active Spaces Fitness Scheme

A recently launched fitness scheme, ‘Hailsham Active Spaces’ has arrived, providing free and easy access to exercise for people aged 16+ in the local community, though focusing on the over 55s.

The Mayor of Hailsham, Councillor Nigel Coltman, declared the Hailsham Active Spaces scheme (managed by ‘Our Parks’) and first exercise session officially open at the Western Road Recreation Ground on Saturday [7 April] and is encouraging more people in Hailsham to take up exercise in the open air and improve their health.

Group exercise classes will take place at the Western Road Recreation Ground on Saturday mornings from 9am throughout the spring and summer and anyone interested in taking part will need to simply register and book online prior to attending.

Hailsham Active Spaces is an initiative bringing free group exercise classes, led by experienced, fully qualified and insured instructors, to parks throughout the country, in partnership with councils and Fields In Trust.

Hailsham Town Council was successful in its funding bid, having received £5,000 from the Fields In Trust charity, and is working with project partners Hailsham Active (formerly Hailsham & District Sports Alliance) and Hailsham Active Spaces to deliver and operate the programme.

The programme will include a range of classes such as yoga, pilates, back-to-exercise and gentle exercise. To join and book a space, visit www.ourparks.org.uk

Welcoming the scheme to Hailsham, Town Mayor Councillor Nigel Coltman said: “This exercise concept will help to provide easy access to exercise at no cost, especially for older residents who may be more prone to health problems and more limited interaction with other people.”

“All classes will be taken by fully qualified instructors and will help everyone get fit or at least have fun trying. Furthermore, classes are suitable for all fitness levels with the aim of engaging everyone regardless of age and fitness experience.

“As the weather improves and the days get longer, now is the perfect opportunity to give it a try, so why not book a session and find out how it works!”

Deputy Town Clerk Mickey Caira said: “The Hailsham Active Spaces scheme aims to ensure that direct access to exercise is available to the local community. The scheme employs a bespoke technology enabling residents to register for group classes and communicate with other park users to provide a healthier, fitter and more socially active community.”

Steve Wennington, founder and chairman of Hailsham Active, said: “This is part of our wider aim to encourage more activity for every age group in town. It is now proven beyond doubt that any sort of exercise will make you feel better and become healthier.”

“Whatever your age or ability, we will welcome you to some gentle exercise and fun with a friendly encouraging team to support you. Even if it is years since you exercised, give it a try, you will amaze yourself.”