A women-only programme supporting confidence, fitness, and wellbeing in a safe and supportive environment
The Women’s Kickboxing Sessions project was delivered by Aspire Burnley to provide women with access to structured physical activity in a safe, culturally compatible, and welcoming setting. The programme was designed to support women experiencing low confidence, low self-esteem, and barriers to attending mainstream gyms or fitness spaces.
By offering women-only kickboxing sessions led by experienced instructors, the project aimed to improve physical fitness, mental wellbeing, and social connection, while creating a strong sense of belonging within the group.
What the Project Delivered
The project delivered 30 structured kickboxing sessions, providing over 45 hours of activity and supporting 60+ women across a wide age range. Sessions were delivered consistently, with strong attendance throughout, reflecting the value participants placed on the programme.
Activities focused on fitness, movement, and skill development, while maintaining an inclusive and supportive atmosphere. The women-only format played a key role in encouraging participation, particularly for women who felt uncomfortable or excluded from traditional gym environments.
Project Highlights
- 30 women-only kickboxing sessions delivered
- Over 60 women supported
- Safe, culturally compatible fitness environment
- Improved confidence, self-esteem, and wellbeing
- Consistent attendance across the programme
- Strong peer support and friendships formed
- Positive impact on mental health and motivation
- Increased confidence to stay active long-term
Impact and Outcomes
The evaluation highlighted significant positive outcomes for participants. Many women reported improved confidence, increased motivation to stay active, and noticeable benefits to their mental wellbeing. Low self-esteem was identified as a common challenge among participants, with the sessions helping to rebuild confidence and self-belief.
Beyond physical fitness, the programme created strong social bonds. Friendships formed during the sessions continued outside of class, with participants meeting socially and supporting one another. This sense of community was one of the most unexpected but valuable outcomes of the project.
Participant Experience
Case studies demonstrated the personal impact of the sessions. Women who previously felt uncomfortable attending gyms described feeling confident, supported, and motivated in a women-only environment. Participants spoke positively about the instructors, the welcoming atmosphere, and the opportunity to connect with others facing similar challenges.
Many described the sessions as a key part of their routine, helping them feel happier, more confident, and more connected to their community.
