New yoga class hopes to get Salford residents active and social

A new yoga class has been set up at Salford Wrestling Academy to address a lack of available sessions in the city.

Organiser Diane Wilson, a long-time yoga enthusiast, was motivated to get the initiative up and running after struggling to find a decent place to practise.

While Manchester city centre boasts a thriving yoga scene, Salford’s yogis have been left disappointed by class closures and a lack of opportunities.

Determined to fix this, Diane reached out to Salix Homes’ Springboard fund, which provides cash injections to projects that benefit the community.

The housing association put £500 towards necessary equipment such as yoga mats, blocks and belts.

Diane said: “We’re so grateful to Salix Homes for helping us make this venture a reality. Yoga is a fantastic way of building community spirit and social cohesion, as well as helping tackle issues around obesity and inactivity.

“Although we’re only a few weeks into classes, we’ve been delighted to welcome a diverse range of participants, including a few of the wrestlers from the academy! One of the things that makes Salford great is its eclectic range of people, and I’m very keen to pull members of the community together through such an enjoyable and life-affirming leisure activity.”

Ben Cruickshanks, neighbourhood manager for Salix Homes, added: “As an organisation we’re passionate about opening up opportunities to the tenants and residents in our neighbourhoods. This new yoga class represents an excellent way for people to look after their physical and mental wellbeing, as well as making a few new friends along the way.”

Classes take place every Monday between 7 and 8pm at Salford Wrestling Academy.

To find out more about how to apply for a Springboard grant.