People in Oakridge, Buckskin and Popley who are looking to be more active are being encouraged to join a new physical activity class organised by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council. 

Using funding from a successful Hampshire Active Health Programme bid, the borough council has set up the classes in each of the three areas to provide more opportunities for local residents to begin their fitness journey. 

The beginner strength training and mixed pilates and aerobics classes are free to attend and have been selected using feedback from those communities.  

This latest wellbeing project has been funded through a grant awarded by Energise Me on behalf of Hampshire County Council using funding provided by the Department of Health and Social Care.  

The new eight-week classes support the aims of the council’s wellbeing strategy to encourage residents to live healthy lives by enabling them to access a range of support and facilities in their local community. 

If the classes are successful, it is planned to train a local person to continue running them in each area to meet this need.  

The funding also enables access to an app for families offering support and top tips on keeping active and eating well for people in those areas. 

Cabinet Member for Communities, Partnerships and Inclusion Cllr John McKay said: “Supporting our residents to access opportunities to be more active both physically and socially is so important. 

“Through this successful grant application, we have been able to identify areas in the borough where levels of health and physical activity are lower and work with those communities to provide more opportunities to exercise. 

“These classes have been organised using feedback from each community and are designed for people who are new to exercise. This is a chance to make a positive change, be more active but also a great opportunity to meet people in your area.” 

To find out more about the classes or to book a place email SportandWellbeing@basingstoke.gov.uk or call 01256 844844.

The classes taking place are: 

Lift-off: beginner strength training 

The perfect introduction for beginners, helping to build strength and confidence step by step. 

Oakridge Hall for All, Forsythia Walk, Oakridge Village, Basingstoke, RG21 5RG 

Starting Saturday 19 October for eight weeks (no session on Saturday 7 December).  

9.30am to 10.30am 

Plus the opportunity for refreshments and a chat afterwards. 

Pilates Cardio Fusion 

Melrose Community Hall, Abbey Road, Basingstoke, RG24 9ES  

Starting Thursday 17 October for eight weeks (no session in half term 31 October) 

6.30pm to 7.30pm  

Lift-off: beginner strength training 

The perfect introduction for beginners, helping you build strength and 

confidence step by step.  

Buckskin Evangelical Church, Chiltern Way, Basingstoke RG22 5BB. 

Starting Monday 21 October for eight weeks. 

10am to 11am  

Plus the opportunity for refreshments and a chat after the class.