Bedford Launches Women-Only Badminton to Boost Fitness, Community
BEDFORD, England – A new women-only badminton program has launched in Bedford, aiming to empower women through fitness and community engagement. The initiative addresses the need for more inclusive sports activities, providing a safe and welcoming habitat for women from diverse backgrounds.
Breaking Barriers: Inclusive Sports for Women
The program directly tackles barriers preventing women from accessing mainstream fitness, like privacy concerns, religious expectations, and underrepresentation. Weekly sessions are held on Thursdays, 10-11 a.m., during term time at John Bunyan Sports & Fitness Center (Mile Rd., Bedford MK42 9TS).
Affordable and Accessible Fitness
The sessions offer a low-cost option at just £2 per session for women over sixteen, nonetheless of skill level. Advance booking is recommended due to limited spaces.
Partnership for Empowerment
The program is a collaboration between Bedford Borough Council, Hawaa Empower and GLL (Better). Councillor Sarah Gallagher, Portfolio Holder for Customer Experience, Leisure and Culture at Bedford borough council, expressed her delight in providing a space for women to engage in physical activity without compromising their values, fostering a more inclusive community. “We are delighted to see this programme come to life, providing a vital space for women to engage in physical activity without compromising their values.”
Shapna Khanam,Founder and Director of Hawaa Empower,emphasized,”This initiative is about more than just sport; it’s about equity,representation,and improving health outcomes for women who are often underrepresented.”
Aaron Colbert, Community Sports Manager for Better, highlighted the benefits of exercise for confidence and self-worth.”Every day in our Better leisure centres we see the huge benefits that exercise brings to people. Not only in terms of improving their physical fitness but also their confidence and self-worth.”
Part of National Initiative
The program is part of Badminton England’s “No Strings Badminton” initiative, offering affordable, fun ‘pay-and-play’ sessions. All women are invited to join, whether beginners or experienced players.
How to Get Involved
For more information and to book a place, visit www.hawaa.org/badminton.
Is equipment provided, or do I need to bring my own badminton racket and shoes?
Women-Only Badminton in Bedford: Yoru Questions Answered
this Q&A provides further insight into the women-only badminton program launched in Bedford.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the primary goal of this badminton program?
The program aims to empower women through fitness and community,addressing barriers that prevent women from accessing mainstream sports.
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Who is this program for?
It’s designed for all women over sixteen, regardless of skill level, including beginners and experienced players.
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Where and when are the sessions held?
Sessions take place on Thursdays, from 10-11 a.m., during term time at the John Bunyan Sports & Fitness Center (Mile Rd., Bedford MK42 9TS).
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How much does it cost?
Each session costs only £2. This affordability makes it accessible to a wide range of women.
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How do I book a place?
It’s recommended to book in advance due to limited spaces.Visit www.hawaa.org/badminton.
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Who are the key partners in this initiative?
The program is a collaboration between Bedford Borough Council, Hawaa Empower, and GLL (Better).
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What is “No Strings Badminton”?
The program is part of Badminton England’s “No Strings Badminton” initiative, which focuses on fun, affordable, pay-and-play sessions.
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Why is a women-only program notable?
It creates a safe and welcoming habitat, addressing privacy concerns, religious expectations, and underrepresentation often faced by women in mainstream fitness activities. Did you know that women’s involvement in sports can substantially boost their self-esteem and reduce stress levels?
This program offers an excellent opportunity for women in Bedford to improve their fitness, build community, and boost their confidence. Don’t miss out – visit www.hawaa.org/badminton to get involved today!
