Partnership aims to support healthier lifestyles

Published Monday, 17th January 2022

A new initiative aims to help Hartlepool men lose weight, get fitter and become more active.

Hartlepool Borough Council has joined forces with Hartlepool United Community Sports Foundation and the EFL Trust to launch FIT POOLIES as part of the trust’s national FIT FANS programme.

The free 12-week initiative is open to men of all ages and will combine classroom sessions on nutrition and lifestyle changes with physical activity. It gets underway on Monday January 24th at Hartlepool United FC’s Suit Direct Stadium.

To be eligible, men must have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 28+ and have a waist measurement of at least 38 inches.

Places on the programme are limited and anyone who is interested in taking part can register at www.efltrust.com/fitfans

Hartlepool Borough Council’s Director of Public Health Craig Blundred said: “A healthy weight is important at any stage of life. Becoming overweight or obese increases our risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, some cancers and serious illness from Covid.

“This initiative aims to help people lose weight and provide them with the support they need to adopt healthier lifestyles in the longer-term.

“We are delighted to be working with Hartlepool United FC which has a tremendous fan base, and the EFL Trust to reach out to local people.”

The initiative will include a walk around Hartlepool United FC’s Suit Direct Stadium and a player appearance, while everyone who completes the course will receive two free tickets for a Hartlepool United FC match.