A NEW initiative aims to help men lose weight, get fitter and become more active.

Hartlepool Borough Council has joined forces with Hartlepool United Community Sports Foundation and the EFL Trust to launch ‘Fit Poolies’ as part of the trust’s national ‘Fit Fans’ programme.

The free 12-week initiative is open to men of all ages and will combine classroom sessions on nutrition and lifestyle changes with physical activity. It gets underway on Monday. January 24 at Hartlepool United FC’s Suit Direct Stadium.

To be eligible, men must have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of more than 28 and have a waist measurement of at least 38 inches.

Places on the programme are limited and anyone who is interested in taking part can register at www.efltrust.com/fitfans

Hartlepool Borough Council’s director of public health, Craig Blundred, said: “A healthy weight is important at any stage of life. Becoming overweight or obese increases our risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, some cancers and serious illness from Covid.

“This initiative aims to help people lose weight and provide them with the support they need to adopt healthier lifestyles in the longer-term.

“We are delighted to be working with Hartlepool United FC which has a tremendous fan base, and the EFL Trust to reach out to local people.”

The initiative will include a walk around Hartlepool United FC’s Suit Direct Stadium and a player appearance, while everyone who completes the course will receive two free tickets for a Hartlepool United FC match.

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