Walking football aimed at over-55s and a dance project for young men – just a couple of solutions to get people active as part of our latest Make Your Move funding
Funding from the scheme – which is provided by Sport England and Sporta – will benefit 17 local projects.
One of the projects already making a difference to Stephen Prescott in Luton is a local project called Walking Sport for Older Men.
“It’s a good workout, good fun and every week it’s getting better," said 65-year old Stephen.
"I played basketball for eight years, and rugby for 10 years. Since then I’ve done nothing, so the walking football has really got me going again.
“There are a lot of good people I’m meeting, all having a good time. I’ve been at the football four weeks, and since then I’ve joined the gym and also I’m playing bowls.”
There are several other pioneering projects that have been awarded Make Your Move funding. We’ve picked some fantastic examples below.
EAST DEVON WALKING CLUB
Both men and women over 55 can experience the benefits of walking football across four areas in East Devon. Friendly coaching and training is provided by peers. And for those who enjoy some informal competition, walking football tournaments encourage those currently held back by a lack of confidence, injury, illness and social isolation.
URBAN8
Dance and dodgeball are on the menu for men aged 14-17 as part of Urban8 – a great scheme that provides opportunities for inactive people in Tandridge.Through new urban dance sessions, the trust aims to set up a new male dance company, and offer dance styles such as skanking.
SWIM TOGETHER
The number of people swimming may be on the decline but three trusts are working together to buck the trend. Swim Together provides several aquatic activities to women aged over 45 – and is aimed at those with limited experience and confidence in the water. The one-to-one sessions improve users’ confidence and strength while swimming.