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For many people, taking the first step towards a healthier lifestyle can feel daunting. But last summer, Jo decided it was time for a change – aiming to become more active and find a fun, welcoming way to get involved in sports.

After spotting an online advert for Nottingham Forest Foundation’s Healthy Goals programme, Jo’s interest was sparked, “it sounded really interesting, so I thought I’d give it a go.”

In September, Jo attended a Monday night session for the first time and immediately felt at home, later adding regular Tuesday sessions to the routine. The thoughtful structure of the programme stood out to Jo: starting with engaging fitness circuits to build strength and endurance, followed by a variety of enjoyable sports.

“It’s the perfect setup. You join the fitness circuits first and then get the option to play sports afterwards. I love team sports – it feels like a rewarding treat after doing the circuit work.”

One of the key strengths of the Healthy Goals programme is its ability to listen and adapt. The sessions are continuously tailored based on participant feedback, ensuring that every individual, regardless of fitness level or ability, feels supported and included.

Jo has taken part in a wide variety of activities, ranging from traditional circuits to badminton, short tennis, netball variations, cricket, dodgeball, and table tennis. This diverse approach keeps the sessions fresh and exciting.

Equally inspiring is the vibrant, inclusive community that attends each week.

“There’s a really diverse range of people involved in terms of ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds. Everyone is so relaxed and sociable with each other. It’s not competitive at all – we’re all sharing a common goal to improve our fitness and feel good.”

Even during the colder winter months when motivation can naturally dip, the sense of camaraderie keeps participants coming back. Jo notes that people often arrive feeling low on energy, but always leave feeling refreshed, uplifted, and proud of their efforts.

These physical and mental benefits of Healthy Goals have been transformative for Jo.

“I feel healthier, stronger, and my endurance has massively improved. Mentally, it makes me feel so much better. The correlation between physical activity and mental wellbeing is often massively undersold. It gives me something positive to look forward to every week.”

With the sessions conveniently located and designed to welcome everyone, Jo strongly encourages anyone on the fence to take that first step.

“I would say just come along – you have nothing to lose. There really is something for everyone.”

“The sessions are incredibly adaptable, catering to a whole range of abilities, ages, and fitness backgrounds. The Foundation addresses everyone’s needs, and that’s why people keep coming back.”

Alice Points, Healthy Goals Assistant at Nottingham Forest Foundation, said, “Watching Jo show up every week, try new exercises with an open mind and make noticeable improvements in strength and mobility has been truly inspiring.

As she’s built strong connections with both her peers and coaches, she’s helped create an incredible sense of community – something that makes delivering these Healthy Goals sessions the highlight of my week.”

Healthy Goals is a free weekly fitness and wellbeing session, which takes places across communities in Nottingham City (Forest Fields, St Ann’s, Bilborough) and Kirkby-in-Ashfield. The sessions are designed for teens (11-16) and adults (18+).

The programmes is funded by the Premier League Foundation, The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA), Public Health Teams, Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council.

To learn more about the Healthy Goals programme, click here.