Peterborough women encouraged to improve fitness with female-focused activities
Women of all ages from across Peterborough are being encouraged to up their fitness levels by taking advantage of female-focused activities.
Peterborough City Council is highlighting the issue of women’s physical wellbeing as part of its Peterborough Get Moving campaign, which aims to inspire individuals to boost levels of physical activity and maintain their strength and balance.
The council believes women often face unique barriers to being active, with everything from maintaining a career and managing time pressures to caring responsibilities and, in some cases, a lack of confidence, all conspiring to thwart a more active lifestyle.
To this end, the city council is shining a light on how beneficial inclusive, community-based activities – from women-only sessions to supportive small group programmes – can be in achieving such aims.
One of the leading small group options now available is a structured GP‑linked programme called HealthPod.
"With the HealthPod exercise programme at my GP practice, I do not feel intimidated,” said a 40 year-old-female.
“Unlike other gyms, I am not surrounded by people who already feel fit and confident, and I am given clear direction on how to use the equipment safely. I have also been supported with advice on exercising at home and on losing weight in a way that works for me.”
She added: “Exercising in a small group feels like being part of a small family, which has really helped my confidence and motivation.”
The council says it’s especially important for women to move more, as regular activity not only supports physical health – reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions – but also plays a vital role in boosting mental wellbeing by easing stress and lifting mood.
The 40-year-old woman said she had experienced significant changes in both her wellbeing and her outlook since joining:
“Since starting the programme, I have become more committed to continuing my diet and managing my blood sugar levels,” she said.
“I used to suffer from chronic headaches, which have gone away since I began exercising. I am surprised and proud of how far I have come on my journey and am very happy to be involved in the exercise programme.
“Since October 2025, I have lost 18kg and feel motivated to continue my exercise journey."
More information about female-focused and small group activities can be found on the city council’s Peterborough Get Moving homepage.