What do we want? Classes fit for women

Sarah Noblett and Sarah Thompson, who are in the second year of sports development degrees, were doing some voluntary work for Blackpool Council, when they were invited to be ambassadors for a new project funded by Sport England’s Sportivate programme.

They became the driving force behind What Women Want, a scheme to provide free activity sessions in local children’s centres, based on what mums themselves asked for. Activities include table tennis, Zumba classes, fencing and boxing.

Each centre now has a weekly timetable, and an online community is being built up on social networking site Facebook.

A good deal of research was carried out to find out which activities would get women motivated and sourcing appropriate instructors, but the pair say it was worth it.

Sarah Noblett said: “I’m a mum myself, I have three children, but I know from experience it can be hard to be able to exercise.

“Exercise is so great for mental health, as well as physical well-being. It’s great for self-esteem and confidence and overall, feeling good.

“It’s nice for women to have something they can come and do together, with other mums, there’s a social aspect too. Especially for single parent families or when you live in a transient community and don’t necessarily have family support.”

Sarah Thompson said: “It’s been amazing, we’ve had really positive feedback.

“There can be barriers for women to take part in activities, such as childcare and confidence. This aims to help tackle some of those.”

Search on Facebook for What Women Want Blackpool.