029 Creating Inclusive Community Classes with Becky Roberts

In this week's episode I'm joined by Rebecca Roberts from Bfitr. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Becky has worked with a diverse range of individuals, particularly within what we call the specialist population. She spent 15 years working with the Exercise Referral Scheme in North Wales. Today, she'll be sharing her insights into her journey and the importance of community-based activity sessions.

We talk about

• Rebecca's Experience with the Exercise Referral Scheme
• Local Access to Fitness
• Initiating Community-Based Activity Sessions
• The Importance of the Social Element
• the physical and mental benefits
• building confidence and starting where you are
• how to make people feel included and part of the community

About Rebecca:
Rebecca Roberts helps people improve their functional ability and fitness through community-based classes. Rebecca has been in the fitness industry for 20 years and worked for the national exercise referral scheme in North Wales for 15 years.  While working on the scheme she realised there was a lack of conveniently located classes at the right level for people who had completed the referral scheme but were not ready or didn’t want to join the gym or go to mainstream classes.

This led to the development of BFitR which focuses on inclusive and accessible classes for older adults, and she now runs three classes a week in her local area.

When not teaching Rebecca likes to spend time with her three girls and running up and down hills with her dog!

Find Rebecca
Twitter @rebecca70340919
Instagram rebeccabfitr_
Facebook BFitR
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-roberts-22b24662?trk=contact-info

For more about the training and support Sarah offers, visit www.sarahbolitho.com or contact her at admin@sarahbolitho.com.

Follow her on social media
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fabnewlous_active_lives
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fitnesscareer mentor
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahbolitho

Transcript

Hello and welcome to this week's episode of "Creating Active Lives." I'm your host, Sarah, and today I'm excited to have a special guest with us. I'm joined by Rebecca Roberts, affectionately known as Becky from BFitR. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Becky has worked with a diverse range of individuals, particularly within what we call the specialist population. She spent 15 years working with the Exercise Referral Scheme in North Wales. Today, she'll be sharing her insights into her journey and the importance of community-based activity sessions.

 **Rebecca's Experience with the Exercise Referral Scheme:**

Becky: Thank you, Sarah. Well, having worked with these clients for 16 weeks, I always look at where they go next. I approached the Legend Centre, suggesting the need for easier classes between the mainstream options to help clients transition. However, it was a challenge to get the Legend Centre to embrace the concept of easier classes. While we managed to introduce a few, it wasn't as many as I believed were necessary. This frustrated me because clients had made progress in their fitness levels, but often not enough for the more intense classes offered.

**Local Access to Fitness:**

Sarah: Absolutely, and I think your observations resonate with many people, especially those living in more rural areas like North Wales. Sometimes it's not easy for people to access larger leisure centres or facilities in towns. The distance and transport issues can be barriers. Is this something you've noticed as well?

Becky: Yes, definitely. In rural areas like where I am, transportation can be a challenge. Bus routes might not always be convenient, and even the nearest bus stations could be quite a distance away. Hospitals and physio appointments can also be quite far, making it challenging for people to access fitness and community activities without incurring additional transportation costs.

*Initiating Community-Based Activity Sessions:**

Sarah: Your community-based activity sessions seem to have filled a much-needed gap. What led you to start delivering these sessions? Was it in response to the lack of suitable options for the specialist population?

Becky: I've always loved delivering exercise, especially exercise to music. However, the traditional approach to exercise to music often involved fast-paced routines with high-intensity music. I realized that I could adapt these sessions to suit the age range and abilities of my clients. So, I designed sessions with a warm-up, a manageable main routine, a strength component, a focus on balance, and floor exercises. This format was different from what I was initially taught but catered to what I knew my clients needed. I wanted to create a space where they had options and could participate at their own comfort level.

**The Importance of the Social Element:**

Sarah: It's evident that your approach is centered around the needs and preferences of your clients. The social aspect also plays a crucial role in your sessions. How do you think this social element contributes to the success of your community-based activities?

Becky: The social aspect is indeed essential. Many people come not just for the exercise, but for the sense of community and connection. It's heartening to see how the classes bring people together from various villages who may not have known each other before. The small village hall setting creates a welcoming environment where people can bond over shared experiences, whether it's exercise, crafting, or other activities. This social connection contributes to their overall well-being and often motivates them to attend regularly.

*Physical and Mental Benefits:**

Sarah: Absolutely, the sense of community can be a powerful motivator. Additionally, engaging in activities like these not only has physical benefits but also significant mental health benefits. How have you observed this interplay between physical activity and mental well-being?

Becky: Engaging in these activities provides a positive feedback loop. The sense of community and social interaction helps combat feelings of isolation and depression. Sometimes, just stepping out of the house to attend a class can initiate a chain reaction of movement and interactions that extend beyond the class itself. These experiences can uplift their spirits, and even seemingly small actions like watering a plant or taking a leisurely stroll have a cumulative positive effect.

**Reframing Movement and Fitness:**

Sarah: You're absolutely right. It's a holistic approach that encompasses much more than just exercise. In our culture, the notion of movement and fitness has often become very rigid, centered around intense workouts. How do you help your clients reframe their perspective on movement and fitness?

Becky: I always emphasize that movement isn't limited to structured workouts. Everyday activities like walking to a venue, taking stairs, or even doing household chores can contribute to overall movement. By breaking down the boundaries between formal exercise and daily life, clients begin to see that movement is accessible and varied. It's about finding joy in staying active throughout the day, rather than confining fitness to a specific time and place.

**Building Confidence and Starting Where You Are:**

Sarah: That's such an important perspective. Starting where you are and building confidence gradually is key. How do you approach clients who may be hesitant due to fear of trying something new or thinking they're not capable?

Becky: When newcomers arrive, I always make a point to greet them and assure them that they should do what they can. I encourage them to take breaks or modify movements as needed. Making eye contact and providing individual attention helps them feel acknowledged and less anxious. During the session, if I notice someone struggling or feeling out of place, I discreetly check in on them and offer support. It's about creating a safe space where they can do what they're comfortable with, even if it's just observing.

 **Encouraging Client Progress:**

Sarah: It's evident that you prioritize the individual experience and tailor your sessions accordingly. How do you ensure that clients continue to progress, especially when some may have limitations?

Becky: Progress doesn't always mean pushing to the limit. I encourage clients to reflect on where they were when they started. Often, people forget how much they've improved because they get used to their new abilities. I recommend they keep track of what they couldn't do before and celebrate the small victories. It's about acknowledging the progress they've made and helping them see how much they've accomplished.

**The Role of Community and Instructor:**

Sarah: It's all about recognizing those achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Community and instructor support plays a significant role in this journey. How do you make newcomers feel welcome and integrated into your sessions?

Becky: When new attendees join, I always make sure to approach them and introduce myself. I inform them about the session and offer them the flexibility to participate at their own pace. It's essential to create an environment where newcomers don't feel pressured and know that they can adjust their involvement as needed. And at the end of the session, I make it a point to connect with them, get their feedback, and use that to improve their experience.

**Creating a Supportive Atmosphere:**

Sarah: It's clear that your sessions are all about inclusivity, support, and gradual progression. What advice would you give to those considering community-based activity sessions and looking for something suitable for their needs?

Becky: If you come across a class or activity that interests you, reach out to the instructor, or attend a session to observe. Starting where you are and finding an instructor who values your comfort level is crucial. It's okay to take your time, ask questions