Tuesday 14 December 2021

Guys Get Active, the Wandsworth lifestyle programme empowering men to take control of their health

 



Enable Leisure and Culture are thrilled to announce the return of their successful Guys Get Active course - a free community lifestyle programme designed specifically for men living or working in Wandsworth. The project supports all men, whatever their ability, who are above a healthy weight to make lasting lifestyle changes. Evidence shows us that these changes will improve overall health and wellbeing and reduce the risk of diseases arising from a sedentary lifestyle and poor diet.

Funded by Wandsworth Council, the programme, delivered by Enable’s specialist Health & Wellbeing team is built on two main foundations; weekly individual 1-1 nutrition consultations with a behavioural change focus delivered by qualified nutrition professionals and a mix of physical activity sessions through the week. The three physical sessions are a virtual exercise class (via Zoom), a strength training session and a football session with rest days in-between. All are welcome to the course – whatever their weight,  fitness level or ability.

Previous Guys Get Active participant Adrian says "This programme is absolutely amazing. It is flexible enough to make it work around our schedule, and interactive enough to keep us involved and motivated. The nutrition sessions are gold, I know people that are paying a lot for something like this. The exercise is great not only for physical health, but also bring a lot of mental health benefits. The football sessions are entertaining, people really play for fun, and skills are not that important."

Guys Get Active is free for the first ten-week period then just £2 a session should participants choose to continue. The true financial value of the program is £120 per person per week. If that wasn’t reason enough to enrol, Enable also offers a small gift to those who sign up before January; you can choose from a resistance band or a pedometer & accelometer to support your physical activity goals.

Previous participant Omar also got much out of the program; "I can't recommend the Guys Get Active program enough. I have always struggled with my weight and the nutrition sessions have been invaluable. The one-on-one sessions have allowed me to set meaningful goals and focus on my diet. The nutritionists have been incredibly supportive and knowledgeable. I have loved playing football again and with the help of our coach, have even managed to string a few decent passes together. It’s a really fun way to exercise in a supportive team. For anyone thinking of joining the program, just do it. You've got nothing to lose other than the weight!"

Wandsworth Council's cabinet member for adult social care and health, Cllr Clare Salier, said: “Guys Get Active is a great way to get men up and moving, especially after being stuck at home during the pandemic. It’s a fun way to get fitter, helps people make friends and stay connected and has real benefits for people’s physical and mental health.”

 

Guys Get Active is accessible for all, all are welcomed to engage with the programme if they are eligible. Those with disabilities are encouraged to join and can speak to Enable’s expert team to discuss any additional support or adjustments. For further information, please contact activelifestyles@enablelc.org or view the webpage.

 

Registration for the Guys Get Active is open now, and the programme is rolling, so participants can sign up anytime. You can join or learn more via our website.

Reducing social inequality is at the heart of Enable Leisure and Culture’s work with the person at the centre of their approach.