Council launches Pilates programme for the new year 

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has launched Pilates programmes for those aged 18 years and over which are due to commence at Omagh Leisure Complex and the Fermanagh Lakeland Forum, Enniskillen in January 2022.

The programmes, which are funded by the Public Health Agency (PHA) as part of its Healthy Towns West Programme, under “A Fitter Future for All Framework”, are free and will be facilitated by a qualified instructor.

The Pilates programmes will commence on Wednesday 12 January 2022 at Omagh Leisure Complex at 12noon and Thursday 13 January 2022 at the Fermanagh Lakeland Forum, Enniskillen at 4pm. Each session will last 45mins. Participants will be required to adhere to advice and guidance with regard to restrictions in place to curb the spread of COVID-19 whilst attending the programme.

Speaking about the Pilates programmes, Councillor Errol Thompson, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, said:

“Fermanagh and Omagh District Council recognises and promotes the benefits of leading an active lifestyle which is one of the key themes of the 2030 Community Plan and is delighted to work in partnership with the PHA to provide this opportunity to our residents.

At a time when our mental and physical health have been greatly impacted upon, the Pilates programme is an ideal opportunity to undertake a low-impact exercise programme which will help strengthen muscles while improving posture and flexibility and at the same time looking after your mental wellbeing.

I would encourage you to sign up to this excellent free course and avail of the expert tuition available.”

Colette Brolly, the PHA lead on physical activity encouraged people to take part in the Pilates programme;

“Regular physical activity will help you feel better, boost your immune system, reduce anxiety and stress, build strength in your muscles and bones to improve your mobility, help improve your balance and improve your sleep.

“In line with the recommendations in the Fitter Future for All Framework it’s important to be physically active at each stage of our lives and, combined with eating healthily, this can help us age well and feel good.”

Availability for the Pilates programme at both venues is limited and places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Programme registration is available by clicking on this link, from Friday 26 November 2021. There is no cost to participate in the Pilates programme.