Selston fitness group using online classes to bring people together during coronavirus crisis
A Selston community fitness group which helps people with loneliness and isolation is fighting back against coronavirus by bringing people together in the virtual world.
The TEAM Fitness (Together Everyone Achieves More) organisation is trialling online exercise classes in a bid to promote physical and mental well-being to “lift the spirits” during the crisis.
It is hoped the activities will help bring people together at a time when the Government is advising self-isolation to prevent the spread of deadly Covid 19.
The group was started by Michael Robinson and several friends about four years ago. Until the coronavirus hit around 50 members would meet at the Old Tin Hat centre, on Chapel Street, in Selston, for various sessions.
Michael, who leads the activities helped by his wife Kelly and four-year-old daughter Lillie-Mae, says the club has always provided a social gathering point as well keep fit and exercise classes, including High Intensity Interval Training (HiiT).
"We are a 'not for profit' organisation and we not only cater for fitness but we are also a social meeting place. Our activities help with all sorts of issues from hospital rehabilitation, to loneliness, depression or anxiety," said Michael who works in IT but runs the club as a hobby.
“Since coronavirus, people are now being advised to stay at home, to self isolate and the gyms and leisure centres and community places are having to close,” he said.
“We wanted to do something to help people to lift their spirits during this difficult time, so people don’t feel so lonely. We thought it was important to try and reach out to people through the virtual world. We will do fun exercise and it is a way to keep people connected.”
It is hoped classes will be online Mondays, Wednesday and Thursdays, from 6pm, and Saturday, from 10am. The first trial starts on Monday.
After the coronavirus problem is over the group will be looking for a new venue, possibly in a school or church hall, or community centre within a mile or so radius of Selston.
Their current venue is on the market. They need a suitable space, three to four times a week, and storage area. Details: [email protected] or Facebook.