England Boxing coach Alan Gaynor launches free Mind in Motion Blackpool sessions with Sport England

A Blackpool community organisation has launched three new free wellbeing programmes after securing funding from Sport England to help improve the physical and mental health of local residents.

Mind in Motion CIC, founded by local counsellor, educator and England Boxing coach Alan Gaynor, has introduced the initiatives following the funding award, with the organisation believing that "gentle movement lifts heavy minds". The professionally delivered 12-week programmes would normally cost around £150 per person but are now available free of charge.

The new initiatives include Men in Motion, which uses gentle, non-contact boxing to improve confidence, reduce stress and support men's mental wellbeing; Women in Motion, combining gentle movement, yoga and Pilates to promote wellbeing, confidence and social connection; and Together in Motion, a mixed community programme designed to bring people together through movement, friendship and positive wellbeing activities.

Alan Gaynor said: "Mind in Motion CIC was created because I believe movement can change lives. You don't need to be fit, athletic or have any experience. You simply need to take the first step. We're building a welcoming community where people can improve their wellbeing, make new friends and realise they don't have to face life's challenges alone.

“Thanks to Sport England, these programmes are now completely free, removing one of the biggest barriers that prevents people from accessing wellbeing activities."

Alongside the new programmes, Mind in Motion CIC continues to run its weekly Box Move Connect sessions every Wednesday at 10am at the Brian Rose Gym in Blackpool Sports Centre. Despite its name, the sessions are not boxing classes. Instead, they focus on gentle, non-contact movement, confidence, conversation and community rather than competition.

The organisation also hosts free Walk & Talk wellbeing walks every second Saturday of the month, meeting at 10am by the ramp leading to the beach beside the South Pier tram terminal. Mind in Motion CIC has also launched its 100 Minds in Motion campaign, which aims to help 100 local people become healthier, less isolated and better connected through movement, conversation and community support.

The programmes are open to everyone, regardless of age, fitness level or previous experience.