Ladies only fitness classes are running in Blackburn so women can feel comfortable training.
Saima Afzal, founder of SAS RIGHTS and a human rights activist, launched community Zumba sessions to support women’s physical health and wellbeing.
The in-person Zumba sessions are for women only to support people who don’t go to mixed-sex gyms whether that be religious, cultural, or personal reasons.
Saima is passionate about inclusivity so does run fitness classes where people of all genders are welcome throughout the rest of the week.
Speaking about how running these classes helps to support a mission, Saima said: “We offer free and the cheapest possible women only Zumba classes at £2 for a class with a qualified instructor, which is a bargain in anyone’s books.
"That is with no underpinning funding to help us sustain losses.
“SAS RIGHTS has helped write off debts, given advice, and helped with a range of vulnerabilities that cut across the spectrum of crimes against women and girls.
"We engage and listen, and provide a free ‘cuppa’ and place to chat in a warm space. People can also take part in art and other activities.”
The Zumba classes are running this autumn and winter so the sessions could be a good alternative for outdoor runners who may not feel safe exercising as the nights get darker.
Saima added: “The classes are bringing the gym to women without the expense of membership fees.
“We have a range of other events, activities, such as bike riding, trips, workshops and events that we arrange for our members.
“Lack of funding limits us, but we generally self-fund and internally donate to offer free or subsidised costs for our activities, events and trips to our members so that they remain affordable.”
The sessions every Monday are held at Little Harwood Community Centre in Whalley Old Road, Blackburn from 2pm to 3pm, and will be running until December 11.
Zumba classes every Thursday are at Accrington Road Community Centre in Accrington Road, Blackburn, from 6.30pm to 7.30pm. The Thursday classes are taking place until December 14.
SAS Rights is currently run by volunteers only so welcome support from the community so they can continue help marginalised and vulnerable residents in Blackburn with Darwen.
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