Lifting Beans Keeps Locals Fit and Raises Money for Hertfordshire Mind

Tins of beans and a sense of humour are the only two pieces of ‘equipment’ needed for the popular Jog On Gentle Exercise Classes. Started in lockdown, by two local fitness coaches, Erica Carter and Heather Harris these twice weekly on-line classes are still going strong.

As Erica explained, ‘We wanted to help people who were stuck indoors in lockdown by offering these online sessions and can’t believe we’re now more popular than ever almost two and a half years later.’

The half-hour, low-impact sessions can be done seated or standing and are designed to improve mobility and balance with exercises involving lifting hand weights – or any handy tins. After the 30 mins is up, everyone is encouraging to stay for an online chat.

‘We have participants from all over the country so it’s always good to compare the weather,’ said Heather, adding that the cost is just a donation of £3 to Hertfordshire Mind Network, ‘as we are very conscious of the close link between exercise and mental health.’

Commenting on the five thousand pounds donated to their charity, Louis Breese (fundraising manager) for Hertfordshire Mind Network said: ‘This money helps to fund the range of vital services we offer for the community.

‘These include our Nightlight Crisis Services, as well as our weekly Meeting Place groups that take place both online and at each of our seven wellbeing centres across Hertfordshire.

‘These services are safe, welcoming, and support many people with their mental wellbeing. Thank you once again to Erica and Heather from Jog On for the wonderful support you have provided.’

If you are interested to try the class – there is no obligation to sign up or attend every session – just drop an email to jogonrunning@hotmail.com and they will reply back with the relevant Zoom link.