Breaking barriers to exercise with free classes for Palmy students

From exercise, to nutrition, to self-defence – Wāhine Rise and Tane Rise at the Palmy Massey rec centre is providing free programs for students.  

Emma Carey made the program to help students to better their health physically and mentally.  

“Students already mention that their discounted gym memberships are too expensive, so offering something free takes away at least one barrier to being active.” 

While there are options for men to take part too, it seems the women options are far more popular. Carey says there are 300 female students taking part, and 40 male students. 

Being a part of this programme means access to body composition scans, boxing, and self-defence. Group fitness classes are also on offer which include strength training, shapes, Yoga and RPM.  

I attended a few classes, my favourite being the self-defence class, taught by Sarah Taylor from the Kung Fu School in Fielding.  

Taylor spent an hour discussing dangers around us, and how self-defence is a great use of protection. Students will spend four weeks learning self-defence.  

Carey’s goal is to get more students active, “It is clear through a lot of research that after leaving school students become less active, in particular women”. 

“Physical Activity has to be something people enjoy, and it looks different for everyone.” 

Carey hoped that once people have participated in this programme, they will have the tools they need to continue their health journey.