Following the introduction of a Get Up and Go women-only boxing class in Leigh Park, Havant participants are going from strength to strength.
Since being launched in November last year, the group that meets weekly to undergo non-contact exercise sessions has come out fighting, whilst raising money for charity.
Three of the participants – who had never boxed before, recently decided to take their training to the next level and climb into the ring, taking on an opponent. With one win and a draw between them, the ladies said it was an experience they never thought they would undertake.
Louise from West Leigh, Havant said: “I joined the Get Up and Go ladies-only session as my 10 year old daughter is an amateur boxer at the club, and I wanted to get more involved, as well as get my fitness up. I decided to do a white-collar bout as I wanted to know how she felt when she heard that bell ring.
“By getting in the ring I was also able to raise more than £200 for a brain aneurysm charity.
“I don't have any future plans to box again, but I will definitely continue with the ladies classes as I’ve made some great friends.”
Louise's opponent, Rachel added: "After having a baby I experienced some health problems which led to depression, so I decided to choose fitness to help me and I've always wanted to try boxing.
"The coach and the ladies attending the sessions were so welcoming, and it wasn't long before I plucked up the courage to say I'd like to have a go in the ring. Being paired to fight against Louise, someone I know and like, was tricky. I was gutted about the draw at first, but on reflection what a great experience it was and to share it with Lou was lovely.
"As well as the fantastic experience it also helped me to raise just over £600 for Mind, a mental health charity."
Following her win, Michelle from Horndean said “Since joining this class it has been amazing, I never dreamt I would ever get in a Boxing ring, let alone win! I’ve had no previous boxing experience and since making the decision to fight I have received so much encouragement from everyone at these sessions."
Experienced coach Zoe Woodley, trainer at the sessions held at Bessey's Gym, Leigh Park Amateur Boxing Club, said “These ladies have done remarkably well to go from never boxing before, into the ring – I take my gloves off to them.”
"I couldn't be more proud of what these ladies have achieved. The time and effort they have all put in, from joining a boxing fitness group to competing in the ring is a massive achievement. I'm so glad they got to experience it. The rest of the group who attend the weekly sessions have shown these ladies some amazing support.
She went on to say; “The weekly sessions are for all ages (18+) and abilities; they are non-contact and we use a variety of exercise equipment. Getting in the ring to fight isn’t for everyone, but being fit can be, as that’s what we aim to encourage anyone wanting to join us.
Get Up and Go is a partnership between Havant Borough Council and Hampshire County Council, which opens up a number of health activities aimed at encouraging movement in those who are not active due to a health condition or struggling financially.
To find out more about these sessions and what other activities are available visit www.getupandgohavant.com or follow us on Facebook /Getupandgo