The free 12-week health management programme, which has helped over 60 men reach their health goals this year, will be starting a new course at Headingley Carnegie Stadium this Wednesday and Leeds Rhinos Foundation are looking for men over the age of 18 to register
Try Club supported by Leeds Public Health is designed specifically for men across Leeds with a BMI over 25 who are interested in improving their general health.
The course offers weekly 90 minute sessions to focus on a variety of nutrition and health topics all designed to educate men around achieving realistic healthy and maintainable lifestyle changes.
The programme, delivered by health professionals from Leeds Rhinos Foundation, also includes a 45 minutes of physical activity that works on building muscle mass, reducing body fat and strengthening the core.
Since launching in 2016, Try Club has worked with over 60 men over six programmes, helping graduates from the programme to realise their health goals and maintain a healthier lifestyle after completion of the course.
Rob Phillis, who completed the course this year and went on to take part in the Prostate Cancer March for Men in June credits the programme for giving him a platform to enjoy a healthier lifestyle.
“Try Club has really given me a new lease of life, from losing a bit of weight to just generally feeling more confident about exercise," said Rob.
“The nutrition information and advice about exercise was really useful but more important in reaching the goals I set for myself was the interaction with the rest of the group, everybody was in it together and for me it has been a real stepping stone to maintaining a healthier lifestyle.”
After signing up for Try Club, members are encouraged to enjoy additional physical activity sessions in the form of Wednesday night Touch and Pass groups set up outside the programme with other Try Club members along with support away from the weekly club also available.
Try Club graduate Steve Rowe, who completed the charity’s most recent course in September said:
“I really enjoyed the group environment where everyone would encourage each other.
“I found it very good as a way of getting a bit fitter and also getting more knowledge about diet and nutrition. I realised my main goal thanks to programme losing 7 lbs and 2 inches from my waistline, so I’d really recommend it to everyone.”
Fellow Try Club member Eddy Toronzcak said:
“As the weeks progress you realise you are becoming fitter and recovering better, so you know over the time you’re on the course it’s definitely working for you and then by the end I had lost a number of pounds, so I could see first-hand how it has helped me.
“It’s given me the opportunity to change my life, it seems daunting at the outset to take on all the exercise and diet changes but after doing the course you realise it’s just about a change to your mindset to realise you can do it and now I have finished I’m inspired now to keep it going.”
The new Try Club programme starting from the 4th of October will be based at the Headingley stadium and will run each Wednesday night in the run up to Christmas. Although starting this week, there will be the opportunity to join after this date.
The programme is free and open to all men (Rhinos fan or not) who want to get fitter, healthier and in control of their weight. For more information get in touch with laura.buckle@leedsrhinosfoundation.org
Programme details
Location – Hirst and Rhodes suite (within the Headingley experience building)
Time – 6-7:30pm
Cost – The entire programme is funded through Leeds City Council so is free from start to finish for anyone involved!
Week one important information –
– Please meet outside the Headingley Lodge reception, car parking available at gate B (outside of the lodge hotel) look out for the signs directing you to the room, staff will be on hand to greet you 15 minutes before the start.
– The session will be a very relaxed and informal in structure where we will complete health checks and enrolment material with you to establish if the programme is for you – no obligation.
– Please wear suitable footwear and clothing for physical activity
Activity level will be suitable for people of all fitness levels.
– Please bring a bottle of water with you.
– If you are unsure about your ability to exercise please consult your GP prior to attending the sessions, we will be conducting health checks and discussing your medical history with you on week 1, our staff are fully trained and able to adapt the programme to your healthcare needs where necessary.