Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland Girls Can
Welcome
This Girl Can is the award-winning campaign funded by the National Lottery that seeks to tell the real stories of women who get active or play sport, using images that show what activity really looks like in all its sweaty, jiggly glory.
Women come in all shapes and sizes with all abilities and from all backgrounds. Some of us are expert sportswomen, some of us are a bit rubbish. It doesn't matter.
We're just happy that you're getting active. And if you're still not sure that you can, we're here to help you to figure out a way to get active that's right for you.
Active Together believe Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland Girls Can. Join the community of active women today #LLRGirlsCan
Getting started
Feeling overwhelmed at the thought of getting active and don't know where to start? Let's take it one step at a time. To get you started, we've pulled together some top tips.
Easing yourself in
- Easy does it. Begin by making small changes, don't try and do everything at once!
- Try a beginner's programme to start with, one that provides some structure and eases you in slowly.
- Don't worry about not feeling fit enough to do exercise. It's really common to feel this way.
- Remember, you're not alone. There are plenty of others, just like you, looking to get active
Juggling life
- If you're juggling childcare, look for classes or facilities that offer a creche or flexible memberships.
- Make the most of your 'me' time. Some might find yoga relaxing, but others might find a rigorous HIIT session is exactly what they need to destress!
- Getting active at home or joining an online class might be just the answer – less stress, no travel and tea breaks!
Staying motivated
- Don't worry about getting it right – just enjoy yourself. Take your time and move at your own pace.
- Find places to exercise that put you at ease.
- It's ok to have a few 'wobbles' – we all have them.
- If buying a new kit gives you a boost, go for it!
Overcoming nervousness
- Enjoy how exercise makes you feel rather than what you look like.
- Don't compare yourself to others – you're doing great, just as you are.
- Be your own coach – set goals that work for you
- Why not a ask a friend to go with you? Or better still, start a team!
- Reward yourself every now and then. You deserve it!
Your local female only activities
Community Netball Sessions (Females Only)
Netball sessions open to all females aged 7+. Mothers and daughters welcome to attend together.
Sunday 24th September (10:30 - 11:30)
Girls Basketball - Ages 10-15
A basketball session for girls ages 10-15
Sunday 24th September (13:00 - 14:00)
Ladies Basketballs - Age 16+
Ladies basketball sessions for ages 16+
Sunday 24th September (14:00 - 15:00)
Not seeing an activity for you? Contact us with your preferred activity (contact at the bottom of this page). We can help find the best option for you or explore opportunities for a new LLR Girls Can session.
Active Menopause
Information and advice around the menopause and how physical activity can help to manage the symptoms.
Every woman's experience of menopause is different, but physical activity can help women manage and cope better with their symptoms. Click here for menopause FAQs, physical activity for the menopause, alternative treatments, simple tips and useful resources.
Find an activity you enjoy
The go to place in Leicestershire for pre and post natal physical activity information.
Yoga and Breathing for beginners
Our This Girl Can Ambassador Tash Mina shares some of the main breathing techniques and movements used in Yoga practice which are great for our mental and physical wellbeing.
Our Get Active Search Engine enables you to find local parks/open spaces, clubs, community groups and their activity sessions near you.
Life often has a habit of getting in the way - particularly when it comes to exercise. Ideas for getting active at home or joining an online class might be just the answer!
To get you inspired, This Girl Can have teamed up with Disney and families across England to show you some of the ways mums and kids can get moving to the songs they love.
We Are Undefeatable is a national campaign that supports the 15 million people who live with one or more long-term health conditions in England to get active.
This Girl Can and Strava have teamed up to help you make your comeback to the activities that make you feel good. This is a community designed to empower all women and shine a light on the moments of joy that come with being active!
Studio You is a product of countless conversations with teenage girls and PE teachers across the country around the stereotypes and barriers that make PE less appealing to young women. From yoga to dance, and boxing to combat, with Studio You teachers can deliver fun and engaging lessons that challenge the traditional PE mould.
Stay up to date with the latest events and campaigns across the East Midlands. From charity events to competitions - there's something for everyone!
Join the LLR Girls Can community
Sign up to our Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland This Girl Can Newsletter and Facebook page to receive the latest news.
Meet our local champions
We've heard from lots of women, just like you, who have overcome barriers and found a way to be active that works for them.
Sam is inspiring other mums to make time for themselves.
For Claire, running is like therapy.
Katie found confidence in being more active.
Sharon is on a journey from Couch to 5k and beyond.
For Laura, being active means everything.
Amelia found freedom by getting out on her bike.
Kimberley incorporates family-time with being active.
Zee is empowering women towards healthy lifestyles.
Share your story to help others to become more active!
Become a Let's Get Moving Champion
Whether you've started a new activity such as running, something which will support a health condition/recovery from illness; or are simply making the most of the brighter lighter days to get out in the fresh air - we are looking for Champions from all backgrounds and cultures to help spread the positive messages of being active as far as possible,
Local stories
Leicester Diamonds support This Girl Can!
Couch to 5k success in Leicester
A group of ladies are currently on week 6 of their LLR Girls Can Couch to 5k journeys in Spinney Hill, Leicester. The group meet each week and run in and around Victoria Park.
"Having stopped my activities and work during 2 years lockdowns & ill health meant I literally fitted into the definition of "couch". Ayesha has managed the group with different fitness levels so well - I really felt included and able to join at my own pace. Long may she continue helping women of all abilities!" - Farhana
"Through these sessions I have made wonderful friends and overcome a lot of barriers. Thanks to Ayesha, without her support I wouldn't have been able to blossom the way I am now." - Aesha
Keep your eyes peeled on our website and in our newsletter for any future LLR Girls Can Couch to 5k sessions.
If you are interested in taking part in a Couch to 5k session with Ayesha please get in touch: ayeshaacharya1969@gmail.com
This Girl Can With You
2.4 million fewer women than men reported enjoying sports and physical activity. This needs to change.
We call this the enjoyment gap. And it's up to all of us to close it.
The enjoyment gap is not inevitable and is completely fixable by challenging the practical and structural obstacles that make activity feel less welcoming for women. Focusing on making activity more safe, social, self-affirming and suitable for women. With you, we will reshape women's experiences to welcome all women with open arms. With you, we will challenge one another to act on women's needs. With you, we will change so that no woman is left behind. With you, we can make a real difference to how women experience activity.
With you, This Girl Can.
For more information please contact:
Jess Hazell
Assistant Sports Development Officer
Active Together
I am working flexibly in the office or at home, therefore please contact me via email or phone number provided.
My areas of responsibility are:
- Golden Games
- LLR Girl Can
- Targeted Physical Activity Programme Support
When I'm not working - I'm at Loughborough University athletics track, training for the 400m. I've been an athlete for 13 years, and love exploring different parts of the world whilst competing.
Favourite Sporting Moment – Derek Redmond at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. After tearing his hamstring in the 400m semi-final, Derek's father ran from the stands to help him and they both finished the race together. It always makes me cry!
- Telephone
- 01509 467486
- j.hazell@active-together.org
