Get fit with the Giants
Published on: 11th January 2012
Huddersfield Giants are supporting a new programme to encourage their male fans to tackle their unhealthy habits, avoid the penalties of overeating and inactivity and convert to a fitter, healthier way of life.
‘Get fit with the Giants’ is a new, free 12 week programme, run by NHS Kirklees with the Giants, which offers activity sessions, healthy eating advice and support to out of condition men over 30 who want to loose weight, get fitter and healthier and into shape for the future.
‘Get fit with the Giants’ starts on Tuesday 7 February with an introductory session to explain more about the 12 week programme which runs from 6-8pm on Tuesdays at The Zone in Huddersfield.
The programme uses some of the ideas of rugby league to encourage men to make changes to their lifestyles to improve their health and fitness. By bringing together a group of men to work as a team to achieve goals, take part in training sessions led by a coach and find out the facts about topics such as weight management and nutrition, the men can support and motivate each other as they loose weight, get fitter and tackle some difficult issues such as stopping smoking.
Dr Judith Hooper, Director of Public Health for Kirklees Council and NHS Kirklees said, “The Giants are fantastic role models. They are at the peak of physical fitness and lead healthy lifestyles so that they can be at the top of their game and perform their best for the team and their fans. By involving the players and using some of the motivational techniques used by the Giants, those taking part in the programme should succeed in making positive changes to improve their health.”
Robbie Hunter-Paul, player and the club’s new Business Development Manager, is keen to support the initiative. “It’s a great idea and the Giants are fully behind the programme. All of us need to be aware of how we live our lives whether we are players, fans or coaches and make sure that the lifestyles we lead will not give us problems with our health.
“It’s much easier to make changes to your way of life if you work as a team, train together and encourage each other. Being part of a team makes a massive difference as everyone wants to make sure that they do their best and won’t let the team down.”
Duncan Henderson, from Slaithwaite, is a dedicated Huddersfield Giants fan who recently lost three stone following a programme of healthy eating and activity. He said, “Having lost the weight I feel so much better than I did before. I would have loved the chance to take part in a programme like ‘Get fit with the Giants’ as it is the support of others that gives you the motivation to keep going. I’d recommend taking this opportunity to anyone who needs some support to shed some pounds or start a fitness programme.”
For further information on the free 12 week course or to book a place on the programme please contact Carl Arnold on 01484 464227 or 07534 969213 or email carl.arnold@kirklees.nhs.uk or visit www.giantsrl.com
