Women-only classes offer 'inclusive' workout space

"We come here to have a good workout," said Geraldine Tappins

Organisers of a special exercise class hope it will be an inclusive space where women can work out.

St Pauls Community Sports Academy, managed by Everyone Active and Bristol City Council, is hosting the women-only class every Tuesday.

According to Sport England, there are 300,000 fewer women than men who are regularly active in England.

Geraldine Tappins, who comes to the classes, said: "Sometimes when there's men there you try to keep up with them, but as it's just ladies we come here to have a good workout."

Everyone Active (EA) said cultural practices, past experiences and personal preferences are all reasons for women feeling more comfortable and confident in a female-only space.

Niki Forgacs, activity and wellbeing coordinator at EA in Bristol, said: “Exercise is so important for health and wellness, but we recognise that typical gym environments aren’t always accessible or inclusive for women.

"That’s why we wanted to launch an exercise class that was made for women, by women.

'Safe and inclusive'

Christina Gray, director for Communities and Public Health at Bristol City Council, said: “Regular exercise is a key component to health and wellbeing, with gyms playing a huge part in facilitating active living.

"Yet, we are seeing a significant gender gap when it comes to physical activity, because women are less regularly active than men.

“We want to tackle this issue head-on and create safe, inclusive environments that allow everyone to enjoy the myriad benefits of exercise, which is why I am so pleased to see that St Pauls Community Sports Academy’s pilot scheme has been such a resounding success."

Ripley Morrison, who recently started coming to the classes, added: "I think it's nice that you're not competing with men. I do a few classes with men and it's always a bit more competitive.

"It's a bit more relaxed with just the women."