Posted: Monday 5th June 2017
To mark This Girl Can Week, Hertfordshire County Council is encouraging women and girls to embrace a healthier lifestyle and get active regardless of their shape, size and ability.
The campaign focuses on helping women overcome the fear of judgement that may be stopping them from joining in and promoting the confidence, resilience and belonging that comes from taking part in sport.
Letchworth resident Penny Horley has first-hand experience of the benefits of exercise. She took up a fitness activity after she retired from her job as a supermarket shelf-stacker and found that it gave her a real sense of achievement.
“I found out about a Bootcamp session on Letchworth Common and really liked the sound of it,” said Penny.“It was the first time I’d done something like this so it was daunting.”
Penny has now been attending sessions for more than a year and explains that taking part in the classes has given her a confidence boost.
She said: “The sessions are very supportive and suitable for people of all ages and abilities, and time really flies. I feel so much happier - my energy levels are better, I’m much fitter and I feel more positive.”
Director of Public Health at Hertfordshire County Council, Jim Mc Manus, said: “The campaign brings together a whole range of activities and sessions specifically for women and girls of all ages and abilities - there really is something for everyone.”
Throughout this week until Sunday 11th June, around 300 different activities are on offer in all ten of Hertfordshire’s districts. Different types of activities include kickboxing, zumba, cheerleading, cricket, golf , clubbercise, walking and pilates; as well as running, cycling, netball and much more.
Find a day, activity and location to suit at www.thisgirlcanherts.org or follow us on Twitter @sportinherts and give it a go.