Give something a go … because you can

Give something a go … because you can Friday 22 March

 

East Gippsland Shire Council is encouraging women to try something new and get as part of VicHealth’s inaugural This Girl Can Week which kicked off on March 18.

This Girl Can Week (March 18-24) aims to encourage more women to give physical activity a go or return to exercise after a break.

Mayor Cr Natalie O’Connell said council was hosting free activities including paddle boarding, swimming, fitness and spin classes which are fun and tailored to women and girls who want to get active but aren’t sure about how to take the first step.

“Local women can get involved with the campaign which launched in March last year and inspired one in seven Victorian women to get moving,” Cr O’Connell said.

“I encourage local women and girls to get involved and show that at Lakes Entrance Aquadome, this girl definitely can! This Girl Can –Victoria has had enormous success getting women up and moving without the fear of judgement that stops so many from having a go.”

The campaign features real Victorian women instead of professional athletes or airbrushed Instagram models and is about empowering women to feel comfortable in their bodies and in public spaces – regardless of their ability, how they look or how sweaty they get.

During This Girl Can Week the East Gippsland Shire Council will offer fitness activities that will be fun and inclusive, helping women make that first and often daunting step.

“We want to support all women to get active and embrace a healthy lifestyle, no matter their age or ability,” Cr O’Connell said.

VicHealth Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr Lyn Roberts said This Girl Can – Victoria week was about empowering everyday women to get active in their local community without feeling judged.

“We want all women – no matter how sweaty they get, how red their face is or how good they are – to feel comfortable about getting out there and giving physical activity a go. That’s what This Girl Can – Victoria is all about,” Dr Roberts said.

 “We want women to know that we get it. Rocking up to a gym class or training session is tough when you don’t know what to expect.

“That’s why the activities during This Girl Can Week will be inclusive, non-judgemental and accessible for women of different ages, body shapes and abilities.

“This Girl Can Week is for all kinds of Victorian women who are all kinds of active. I encourage you to give something a go – you might discover a new favourite hobby.”

Free activities include:

Stand up paddle boarding: Saturday, March 23, 5pm at Bairnsdale Aquatic and Recreation Centre Spin class: Saturday, March 23, 9.15am at Lakes Entrance Aquadome Stand up paddle boarding: Sunday, March 24, 8am at Lakes Entrance Aquadome Stand up paddle boarding: Friday, March 29, 9.30am at Orbost Outdoor Pool Fit 2 Go: Wednesday, April 3, 9.15–10.30am 565 The Esplanade, Lakes Entrance Fit 2 Go: Tuesday, April 9, 9.15-10.30am 565 The Esplanade, Lakes Entrance

Women wanting to get involved can visit thisgirlcan.com.au to find out more and discover activities and events in their local area. Keep u-to-date via Council’s Facebook page.

WATCH: This Girl Can – Victoria ‘One Year On’