Summary
A group of Muslim women in Derby, UK, is participating in exercise classes to improve their health and well-being, despite cultural and traditional barriers. These women, many of whom faced personal and societal challenges, are finding empowerment and support in a community exercise project. The initiative aims to help Muslim women be more active, which is linked to better health outcomes.
Key Facts
- Selina, a Muslim woman, stopped participating in a local sports team due to experiencing racism.
- After a period of depression, she joined exercise sessions at the Pakistani Community Centre in Derby.
- Research shows 42% of British Muslim women are inactive, a higher rate than the general female population.
- About 30% of British Muslim women aged 65 or older report bad health, compared to 13% of females overall.
- 300 women have attended the exercise classes at the centre over the past three years.
- Older women also participate in classes, and they have noted improvements in physical pain and mobility.
- Participants mention overcoming cultural taboos related to women exercising.
- The exercise project is designed to empower Muslim women and improve their mental health.
