5 WAYS BLACKPOOL FC COMMUNITY TRUST CAN HELP TO REDUCE YOUR STRESS

As April is Stress Awareness Month, we are highlighting the stress-reducing activities you can get involved in with Blackpool FC Community Trust.

What is stress?

Stress is a normal human reaction that happens to everyone, it’s a feeling of being overwhelmed or unable to cope with emotional or mental pressure. It can be positive in small manageable doses, motivating us to achieve things and helping us to meet the demands of life. Experiencing a lot of stress over time can also lead to a feeling of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion often referred to as burnout.

How can exercise help with stress?

Regular physical activity can help to lower your overall stress levels and improve your physical and mental health. Exercise can influence your mood by relieving tension, anxiety, anger, and mild depression that often go together with stress.

Exercise increases your production of Endorphins, these are ‘feel good’ neurotransmitters that provide a sense of well-being and euphoria after exercise. Some people notice a change in their mood after exercise, these feelings accumulate and over time you will notice an overall increased feeling of well-being and happiness.

What type of exercise reduces stress?

Any kind of exercise can be helpful depending on your activity level. Try new moderate aerobic exercises such as cycling or swimming, even something as simple as gardening or choosing to take the stairs rather than the elevator can give you a lift.

What does Blackpool FC Community Trust offer?

FIT Blackpool <<

Our free 13-week weight management programme is for those over the age of 18. It is comprised of theory and practical sessions to help participants sustain their weight loss and lead healthier lives. Our ‘Keep Fit’ sessions encourage those who have completed the course to continue to exercise and monitor their progress.

When? Our cohort begins on Wednesday 20th April. If you’d like more information on FIT Blackpool, contact fitfans@bfcct.co.uk. FREE

Weekly Walk & Talks <<

We hold multiple walks around Stanley Park throughout the week, to allow local people to come together for a moderate walk and a chat. It’s a great opportunity to meet new people and enjoy some light exercise.

When? Tuesday 1:30 pm, meeting at Blackpool Cricket Club. FREE

Masters Football <<

We have developed an additional session for people aged 35+ who want to carry on playing the game at a faster pace. Masters Football is a slightly slower paced 5-a-side of the beautiful game we all know and love.

When? Tuesday 11:00am – 12:00pm Lytham YMCA. £4

Walking Football <<

These sessions have been designed to help anyone 50+ to rekindle their love for football through a slower pacer game. These sessions take place at Stanley Park and Lytham YMCA.

When? Monday 5pm (Stanley Park) Tuesday 11 am (Lytham YMCA) Thursday 4 pm (Stanley Park) Friday 11 am (Lytham YMCA). £4

Gardening Club <<

Volunteers help us to maintain our memorial space dedicated to Blackpool FC players who sadly lost their lives during the First World War. There are other memorials in need of maintenance at the Arboretum which require a small number of volunteers. All you need is wellies, gloves, and warm clothes during the colder months.

When? Last Thursday of the month. 10:00 am at the Fylde Memorial Arboretum & Community Woodland. FREE

Forces Football <<

These sessions are aimed at maintaining the fitness levels of current and ex-forces personnel. It allows veterans in the community to meet other veterans, have a laugh and a game with the opportunity to represent Blackpool FC Community Trust at events against other professional football clubs.

When? Thursday 6 pm at Weeton Barracks. FREE

If you’d like to know any more information about any of the activities above visit our website: www.bfcct.co.uk, email: info@bfcct.co.uk or call 01253 348691