Volunteers Needed to Keep Heathfield Fitness Classes Running

Volunteers Needed to Keep Heathfield Fitness Classes Running

Free outdoor exercise classes in Heathfield could come to a halt unless more locals step forward to train as volunteer instructors.

The Our Parks initiative — which has brought Bootcamp, HiiT, and circuit sessions to green spaces across Wealden — was originally funded by East Sussex Public Health through the “Tackling Inequalities through Physical Activity” fund. That funding came to an end in September, putting the future of the classes in doubt.

Wealden District Council has since stepped in to keep things going until December

Wealden District Council has since stepped in to keep things going until December, while longer-term solutions are worked on. But to make the programme sustainable, organisers are calling on Heathfield residents to get involved by becoming “Coach Parkers” — volunteers who receive free, accredited training to lead sessions in their own communities.

The idea behind Coach Parker is simple: people who already enjoy the classes can gain the skills and confidence to lead them, helping the programme continue without relying on outside funding. Several volunteers are already qualified and teaching across Wealden, and the aim is to have at least two trained coaches in each town, including Heathfield, by January 2026.

Sign up for free training to ensure the longevity of these fitness opportunities

Councillor Kelvin Williams, lead member for Public Health and Asset Management, said the appeal was about more than just fitness:

“We’re calling on residents in Wealden to step forward and help keep these much-loved free exercise sessions running. By training as a volunteer, you’ll play a key role in supporting the health and wellbeing of your communities.”

For many locals, the classes have become a regular part of the week — a place to exercise, socialise, and boost mental health without cost being a barrier. Training as a volunteer instructor means those benefits can carry on for everyone.

A recruitment drive, supported by Wealden District Council, will be launched soon to attract more volunteers and highlight the benefits of becoming a Coach Parker.

To find out more or to sign up for the training, visit www.coachparker.org.uk or email info@ourparks.org.uk.

Heathfield’s sessions are currently free and open to all fitness levels — and with a few new volunteers, they can stay that way.