Our exercise classes programme: non-users

Thank you to everyone who took part in our recent consultation on exercise classes. We received a wide range of feedback from people who currently do not attend council-run classes. This summary outlines the key themes identified and what you told us matters most.

Key Findings

1. Barriers to Participation

The most common reasons people gave for not attending classes were:

• Availability and booking difficulties – classes are often full or hard to book
• Inconvenient timings and locations – sessions do not always fit around work or daily routines
• Cost concerns – some feel classes are too expensive or unclear in pricing
• Lack of information – people want clearer details about what classes involve, who they are for, and how to access them.

2. Accessibility and Inclusivity

Many respondents said current provision does not always meet their needs:

• Limited options for people with health conditions, mobility issues or lower fitness levels
• A need for more beginner-friendly and inclusive sessions
• Requests for targeted classes (e.g. older adults, women-only, or specific ability levels)
• Concerns that classes can feel intimidating or unwelcoming

3. Flexibility and Preferences

A strong theme was the desire for greater flexibility:

• Preference for exercise on personal schedules rather than fixed class times
• Interest in more varied activities, including outdoor or low-impact options
• Some people prefer to exercise independently or at home due to convenience, cost, or comfort

4. Perceptions of Exercise Classes

Views on exercise classes were mixed:

• Positive associations included health benefits, social interaction, and motivation
• Negative perceptions included feeling judged, embarrassed, or out of place
• Some feel current classes are not suited to their age, ability, or interests

5. Use of Alternative Options

Many respondents already take part in activities outside the council offer:

• Popular alternatives include gym workouts, yoga, Pilates, swimming and online classes
• Some are willing to pay more elsewhere for better availability, quality, or experience
• Social aspects (e.g. attending with friends) are important to some users

6. Communication and Engagement

Feedback highlighted improvements needed in how information is shared:

• Clearer, more detailed class descriptions and timetables
• Easier-to-use booking systems and website experience
• More proactive communication, such as regular updates or emails

What Happens Next

We will carefully review all feedback as part of our ongoing planning and development of exercise classes. Based on what you told us, we will:

• Assess class schedules and locations to improve accessibility and better meet local demand
• Review pricing options to ensure services remain affordable and offer value for money
• Improve booking systems and online information to make it easier to find and access classes
• Explore more inclusive and targeted provision, including beginner sessions and classes for specific groups
• Consider expanding the range of activities, including flexible, outdoor, and low-impact options
• Look at ways to create a more welcoming environment, helping people feel comfortable and confident when attending
• Enhance communication and engagement, including clearer marketing and opportunities for ongoing feedback

Your input is helping to shape future provision, and we remain committed to making our exercise programme more accessible, inclusive and responsive to the needs of our communities.

Thank you again for taking the time to share your views