Warriors Albury and Wodonga Dragon Boat Club are making waves in their community, encouraging women to get back into sport and recreation.
Through a Change Our Game community activation grant the club has been able to offer a unique service – combining health sessions about menopause with dragon boating.
For many women, menopause can be a daunting stage in their life and research from Women in Sport UK has indicated that menopausal symptoms can be a barrier to participating in physical activity and sports.
Warriors’ president, Glenda Chapman shed a light on the positive impact the initiative has had on the community.
‘Participants reported they felt the information from the workshops was very reassuring and they were able to understand what was happening to their body, felt empowered to take action to try and manage it.’
The program has already seen over 30 women through the doors and has sparked a passion for many to continue with over a quarter of participants so far committing to their newfound love of dragon boating.
Building a female friendly environment to help combat the taboo topic of menopause was a key driving force for Albury and Wodonga Dragon Boat Club to initiate this 4-week program.
People are now talking about menopause. One lady told her book club about the workshops, and they all spent the evening talking openly about menopause. Many others have reported the same. The menopause taboo is being broken, explained Chapman.Warriors Albury and Wodonga Dragon Boat Club, President, Glenda Chapman
The club worked with experts from the region including physiotherapists and nutritionists, hosting sessions on topics including nutrition, myths about menopause, pelvic floor health and exercise for healthy aging.
It helped to facilitate open and honest conversations about menopause and the impacts it had on local women.
I have been astounded by how many people are now talking openly about menopause. It has sparked conversations in the club and the wider community. It has been an enjoyable and rewarding experience, she said.
For the Warriors it’s about more than just sport, it’s about fostering social connectedness and community. Being involved in sport can help women feel empowered and gain confidence.
The program runs 3 times a year with all equipment fully catered for by the club. It is a great opportunity to meet new people, try a new sport or learn more about menopause and the steps you can take to look after your body.
If you live in the area and are interested in giving it a go contact Glenda at Albury and Wodonga Dragon Boat Club via email.
Page last updated: 18 October 2024
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