Park Active: Real stories from local residents

Jackie’s story: From participant to volunteer leader

Jackie has been attending Park Active for four years. She joined after moving to the area and spotting a poster for a session at Abbey Street Park. It was summer, and spending time outdoors in the fresh air felt far more appealing than her previous indoor exercise routine.

From the start, Jackie found the sessions warm and welcoming, describing them as a great way to meet new people. She now attends year-round – even in winter!

After a few years as a participant, Jackie took the next step in 2025 and completed training to become a Park Active volunteer leader. One of her main motivations was the encouragement she received from others involved:

“They have been really supportive and enthusiastic about me becoming a trainer.”

She also found the training itself to be a positive experience:

“I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I really enjoyed it.”

Since becoming a volunteer, Jackie has noticed further benefits:

“Delivering sessions has boosted my confidence.”

Overall, Jackie says Park Active has made a big difference to her life – lifting her mood, helping her start the day positively, and giving her something she genuinely enjoys.

What Jackie enjoys most about Park Active:

“The open air, the social side, and how it caters to different abilities.”

Jackie’s advice for anyone thinking of joining:

“Give it a go. It’s free exercise in the park, and you can do as much or as little as you like.”

Sharon’s story: Friendship, fitness and fun at Stevens Park

Sharon lives near Stevens Park in Quarry Bank and has been attending the Monday Park Active sessions for around four years. She first joined when sessions were held on a Sunday morning, and after retiring, she returned to take part on Mondays.

She is now a regular attendee and sums up her commitment simply:

“Whatever the weather, however we feel, we are going – that’s the mindset.”

Before joining Park Active, Sharon says she wouldn’t usually have signed up for a fitness class. However, being outdoors and exercising with others has made all the difference:

“Even the walk to the park, knowing you’re going to meet people, just perks you up.”

The positive impact has extended beyond Sharon herself — even encouraging her husband to get involved:

“He’s never exercised before, and now we both attend together.”

Park Active has also helped Sharon build friendships beyond the sessions. She now attends a Zumba class on Fridays with people she met at Park Active. She also values the wider support the group offers, particularly for those who may be feeling isolated. Some members meet for a chat at the park café after sessions, creating a strong sense of community.

What Sharon enjoys most about Park Active:

“The friendship, the fun, and the fact there’s no pressure.”

Sharon’s advice for anyone thinking of joining:

“Just turn up and try it. We do the exercises, but we have fun as well – we have a laugh.”

Ila’s Story: Building confidence at Grange Park

Ila has been a regular participant at the Grange Park, Park Active session since it first began in

February 2019. She initially discovered the sessions through Facebook and was looking for something local to help her stay active.

She has continued attending because of the many benefits and the welcoming atmosphere. Ila says taking part has helped her feel more confident and has improved her mental wellbeing.

She particularly enjoys exercising as part of a group and values the inclusive, friendly environment:

“I enjoy it very much and look forward to it every week – everybody is so kind to each other.”

The support from volunteers is another key reason Ila keeps coming back:

“The volunteers are all excellent – they help you to do whatever you can.”

What Ila enjoys most about Park Active:

“All the different exercises and the people.”

Ila’s advice for anyone thinking of joining:

“Just come and enjoy yourself – it’s free.”