A group of people supported Emmaus Merseyside have started a pilot project to boost their physical and mental wellbeing.
Six Emmaus Merseyside residents have so far taken part in the fitness project which includes cardio and strength-based training, group fitness classes and boxing sessions. The project began in May and is being delivered by Michael Baker, a qualified personal trainer, who visits our residential community every Wednesday and Friday.
Mickey is one of the people taking part in the pilot and is already feeling the benefits of increased physical activity.
Mickey said: “Having Michael here twice a week doing personal training sessions with us has been great. I have always enjoyed fitness since I was younger, and having him here has been a massive morale boost and I thoroughly enjoy it.
“Michael is great at what he does, and it shows in the change in us since his arrival. As a result of the sessions, it has opened some new doors for myself. I am now looking to enrol on a Personal Trainer course in the near future, and it has given me the confidence to take part in a white-collar boxing event at the end of the year, in which I am raising money for charity. I really can’t think him enough, and for Emmaus for supporting this!”
Emmaus Merseyside is an award-winning charity that provides a home, training, work opportunities and individual support to people who have experienced homelessness. While at Emmaus, people are given the opportunity for a fresh start, gaining skills and work experience alongside training and personal development.
Marc Bamber, Chief Operating Officer at Emmaus Merseyside, said: “Helping people improve their health and wellbeing is part of the wider Emmaus support package. The personal training sessions are proving very beneficial to our community members and we’re very grateful to Michael for his weekly visits and expertise.”
As well as the fitness sessions, our companions have access to an on-site gym which is used on a daily basis. Emmaus companions also take part in community walks and group activities including bowling, go-karting and day trips.
Find out more about the Emmaus Merseyside charity and social enterprise.