Girls get active

206308_0111/3//20 North West Photography. Left to right Trent Hedges, Katelyn Spillman and Patricius Agius (Pic Marco De Luca}

Ewen McRae

A new series of events to get more women active locally has launched in Melton.

As part of a statewide health campaign called ‘This Girl Can Week’, Melton Council is hosting a four-week program of free, fun and inclusive sport and fitness activities for those returning to exercise or wanting to try something new.

A recent VicHealth survey showing that 52 per cent of Victorian women worry about being judged when exercising and 41 per cent are embarrassed or intimidated when exercising in public.

The campaign aims to get women to focus on how being active makes them feel rather than what they look like or their level of fitness.

Melton mayor Lara Carli said the program was designed to cater for all abilities, ages and interests, and encouraged women across the municipality to get out and give it a go.

“Getting back to the gym, starting a new sport, or simply walking around your neighbourhood should only be about how you want to feel physically and mentally,” Cr Carli said.

“You don’t need to be a star player or a fitness expert. We’re creating safe spaces to have fun getting active, try something new, and maybe even discover a new passion.”

The activities will include all abilities boxing, HIIT classes for teenagers, and mother/daughter football ‘come and try’ sessions.

There will also be classes in yoga, golf and self-defence, parkrun sessions and more.

The free program of events kicked off this week and will take place across the municipality until April 11.

melton.vic.gov.au/thisgirlcan

Ewen McRae