In partnership with
Physiotherapy student Lucy speaks with Craig, the team leader of Sport Connects, which takes place in the ARC at Glasgow Caledonian University.
Click play to hear Craig speak about what Sport Connects is all about, and some of the reasons why people may find it difficult to take part in sport and exercise.
Listen to Lucy and Cathy speak about the benefits of attending Sport Connects and taking part in regular sporting activities.
Lucy and Sandra discuss the benefits of taking part in sport and exercise activities outside of Sport Connects independently and in the local community.
Overcome Barriers
Exercise isn’t just good for our physical health. It's also proven to have a positive effect on our mental health and overall wellbeing.
If you would like to exercise but don't know where to begin, start by checking out the videos below.
"Sport Connects is a safe and friendly sports session that can be accessed by anyone who has used a Turning Point Scotland (TPS) service. It offers fun and an opportunity to try out a variety of sports at a pace that suits each participant.The sessions have been developed and are delivered by a dedicated team of TPS volunteers, who use their knowledge and life experiences to help participants enjoy sport in a safe environment."
- Craig Mackenzie, Sport Connects Team Leader
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Sport Connects takes place in the ARC Health & Wellbeing centre on the grounds of Glasgow Caledonian University.
Sport Connects
Getting Started
Most people experience anxiety when they are trying something new. You can overcome these challenges with the right support from family, friends and experts.
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Setting goals can help you to take those first steps to exercise. Your goals should be safe, realistic, practical and enjoyable. Try not to set your goals too high to avoid injury or burn-out. Try and incorporate physical activity into your routine so that it becomes a maintainable activity in your life. By planning something in your diary, you are less likely to forget about it or skip it.
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You do not need a lot of money to become active. You can go jogging outside with friends, do some breathing exercises at lunchtime, or get off of the bus a stop earlier and walk the rest of the way.
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Our body image can be a common barrier to taking part in physical activity. It is normal to be self-conscious when exercising, especially as some gyms tend to have a lot of mirrors. Fortunately, exercise is proven to increase confidence! Feel free to check out different gyms before committing to joining one, as it is important that you are comfortable in the environment when you are starting off. For women who are more comfortable working out with other women, exercise classes which are for females-only exist.
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If you feel really unfit, or you're recovering from a physical injury or worried out any existing condition, please make an appointment to see your GP before you start physical activity.
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It's also worthwhile to consider taking part in other activities with other members of the community. Sometimes, moving into mainstream activities can seem intimidating, especially if you have recently been discharged from hospital or a residential unit. Moving at your own pace and accomplishing things you didn't think you could can be very rewarding. If you are in recovery from an addiction or mental health problem, taking part in exercise with the rest of society, when you are ready, can help you to move forward with your life.