by Ellie Dyer
Going to the gym for the first time can seem like an intimidating task for anyone. It’s a new environment, it’s full of people who know what they are doing (or at least look like it) and so forth. It’s important that the gym is accessible to everyone, allowing anyone to get involved and try something new in a safe and welcoming environment. This is why Ravelin has hosted its first Girls’ Night event of the academic year. For this night only, Ravelin became a female-only space; allowing anyone who identifies as female or non-binary to come along, try one of the many classes and activities available and have a good time.
Image by George Wilson
However, this isn’t the first (and it certainly isn’t the last) Girl’s Night that Ravelin has hosted. In February, the sports centre hosted its’ first event with 610 bookings across all classes and workshops with an astounding 687 women in attendance. Following the success of the first event, it seems only fitting that it must happen again.
Speaking with Team UOP’s Widening Access Officer, Emily, is certain of the advantages of the event. “If you haven’t been to the gym yet but you might be a little bit nervous then it’s a perfect time to try it out in an all-female environment”, she explained.
It’s an “entirely safe space” for anyone who identifies as female to join in and try something new. With Girls Night offering a variety of sessions and classes, it’s a brilliant chance to learn something new.
Emily says “I do hope it targets more than people who are already active within team UOP and their clubs as it is a varied event that’s not just about the sport.” The event also welcomed talks by CoppaFeel to talk about breast cancer as well as a focus on body positivity. As much as the event is about creating a welcoming environment in the gym, it is also important that women feel confident within themselves.
Girls Night is not only the place to try something completely new, but it’s also a perfect opportunity to make new friends. “It’s good that it’s happening early in the year”, Emily continues, “because you can go alone or with people but either way you are going to be able to meet new people you never would have met before”.
Safety was also a massive priority for the staff to add to the success of the event. This year’s event introduced the walking bus; implementing a plan where staff would take freshers to Ravelin and accommodation halls so that no one has to walk there alone.
Whether you are a total newbie when it comes to the gym or consider yourself a pro, you can always try something new at Ravelin. Girls Night is the perfect place to explore the diverse facilities Ravelin has to offer. If you want to meet new people, try out different sports or classes, the sky’s the limit at Girls Night events. Emily describes the night as “fun, friendly and female” summing up the night perfectly.
Don’t worry if you missed out on the first Girls Night of the year, our Team UOP committee are working hard for the next event in January!
(This article was edited by Kearin Green)
About the Author: Ellie Dyer
Hi, I’m Ellie! I’m a second year Global Communications and Media student. Anything pop culture related; I’m interested. My aim is to one day start my own publication covering pretty much anything music, TV and film related!
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