Many research studies have conclusively shown that physical activity can greatly reduce the impact of ageing.  In fact it is no secret that exercise can work to slow down the ageing process in the body by stimulating complex mechanisms within the body that govern ageing in a variety of forms.  There is no doubt that as you get older exercise plays an important part  and can help to improve bone density, reduce stress and help to maintain brain function.

With this in mind the Active Ageing project is aimed at increasing activity in older people and some of the Active Ageing sessions are suitable for older people who have limited mobility, have a look at our Get Active [PDF, 2Mb] leaflet.

We can also support your community with a range of services to help improve active recreation opportunities in your local area.  If you think your community could benefit from starting an activity or if you want to develop an existing session then Active  Ageing can help.

The Active Together programme has now come to an end, but has a legacy that will continue in North Lincolnshire.  The scheme was aimed at helping inactive people in North Lincolnshire to take part in regular physical activity and has achieved significant results after only three years.

Over the last three years Active Together has been run by the council’s Sport, Play and Community Development team, with the work being funded by Sport England and North Lincolnshire Council. It’s main aim and focus was to help inactive people in North Lincolnshire to take part in regular physical activity.

A recent survey that was undertaken to mark the end of the programme achieved not only above average response rates, but also showed a positive impact on the participants who took part in the programme. The survey found that 49 per cent of participants said that their health condition improved, 61 per cent of those who took part said they felt more confident, with 52 per cent of those involved in the programme making new friends and also feeling less isolated.

With such positive results achieved from the Active Together programme, a number of the sessions will continue. Details of these can be found below and on the Active Ageing timetable, a programme of activities for the over 50s.

You can also check out our video on Vimeo.

Come along and try our ‘Do Something Different’ sport, leisure and cultural sessions specifically for adults with a disability aged 16 and above. Have fun, meet new people and learn new skills.

We have various activities on offer ranging from get crafty sessions (please note these sessions are term time only) to rebound therapy (trampoline), instructor led gym sessions and Nordic walking, so there is something for everyone. Please note, Rebound Therapy on Tuesdays at Brigg – booking for is essential.

Our Do Something Different video shows some of our previous activities and what people think to them.

North Lincolnshire Council is continuing its partnership with British Cycling to encourage thousands of people to dust off their bikes and get cycling again. The area will be hosting lots of free bike riding opportunities for local residents.

The Ride Local programme will offer a series of free, fun, guided bike rides around the local area, as well as a number of social rides for people of all cycling abilities to enjoy.

Guided by friendly British Cycling Ride Leaders along scenic planned routes, they are a great way to get out with family or friends. With different levels catering for all ages, there is something for everyone – whether you’re building your confidence or already comfortable on a bike and looking for a challenge.

Look out too for Breeze bike rides for women, and rides organised through social cycling groups.

To book your free place, or for information about Ride Social, Breeze rides and other bike riding opportunities in North Lincolnshire, visit the Let’s Ride website.

Parkrun is a weekly five kilometre timed run. In North Lincolnshire, it takes place at Central Park, in the heart of Scunthorpe, and at Normanby Hall Country Park, every Saturday morning at 9am.

The runs are organised and managed entirely by volunteers. It is free to take part in Parkrun. You just need to make sure you register on the Parkrun website before you go.

You only have to register once. After you have registered you will be given a barcode which you will need to bring along to every run. A barcode timing system is used at the events to record your times. This software means that participants can have their results provided almost instantly, either on the Parkrun website or by text message.

To find out more about Parkrun and to register to take part, please visit the Parkrun website.

Reshape your social life with the benefits of No Strings Badminton sessions at The Pods and Baysgarth Leisure Centre.

Play your way to a lower dress size, burn off those cheeky Friday night pints or simply catch up on court with the girls for a giggle and a gossip. No Strings Badminton can fit into your lifestyle. It is simple and convenient and has no membership fees. You will have a guaranteed playing partner at every session. Players of all ages and abilities are welcome. There is no need to book and all equipment will be provided.

The sessions take place at:

• The Pods on Mondays from 8pm to 10pm. £4.30 per session

• Baysgarth Leisure Centre on Wednesdays from 6pm to 7pm. £3.20 per session
• Epworth Leisure Centre on Mondays from 7pm to 8pm. £3.20 per session

Attend ten sessions before the end of April and receive a free badminton racquet and shuttlecocks.

For more information please see the No Strings Badminton website or call Marie Hughes on 01724 297181.