July 2026
BH Live boosts confidence, fitness and wellbeing with new menopause classes

05 Jun 2026

BH Live’s health and wellbeing team is celebrating the successful launch of its Rise and Shine programme at Bournemouth’s flagship sports and leisure centre, BH Live Active Littledown.

Designed to support and inspire women through every phase of menopause, the programme offers an inclusive, friendly space where women can build confidence, connect with others, and stay active.

The first of the four six-week confidence courses was launched in April 2026. Starting early in the morning, each weekly class included a different workout activity from circuits to Pilates and more in between; followed by a light breakfast with tea, coffee and conversation in Littledown’s Terrace Café.

Each week, different menopause related topics were discussed to provide guidance, reassurance and practical support.

Thanks to the programme’s success, more classes will launch in June 2026. Spaces are still available, with the six-week course costing just £20* per person. To register your interest or secure a future place, email [email protected].

Thanks to generous funding from the AFC Bournemouth Cherries Community Fund, the courses have been subsidised to make them accessible to all.

Classes are led by Viv Galpin, BH Live’s Bournemouth Health & Wellbeing Manager, who delivers the programme every week at BH Live Active, Littledown.

“It’s been incredibly rewarding to see such a positive response to our Rise and Shine programme at Littledown. The course was designed to create a supportive and welcoming space where women can feel confident, stay active, and connect with others who may be experiencing similar stages of menopause. Each week, we’ve seen participants grow not only in confidence, but also in their physical and emotional wellbeing. The combination of varied exercise, open conversation, and practical information has really resonated with the group. We’re proud to offer a programme that helps break down barriers to activity, while also providing reassurance and community support. We’re very much looking forward to welcoming new participants to upcoming courses and continuing to build on this success.”

Now that they have completed the programme, members of the group have reflected on the physical, emotional and social benefits they’ve gained, sharing how these weekly classes have become an important and uplifting part of their routine.

Lucy is one participant who has benefited. She said: “It’s been brilliant to try all the different activities; I’d never even tried an exercise class before this programme. I’ve looked forward to coming to the class every week. It’s a really friendly group, and there’s no judgement. Everyone is welcome to do the exercises at their own pace. There are even adapted movements for people looking for an easier or more intense workout.”

Kirsty, another participant, shared: “I really enjoyed these sessions. I found them incredibly positive and so easy to fit into my daily routine. It’s a great insight into the different group exercise classes on offer in the centre, and they’ve really complimented my regular fitness routine.”

Nikki added: “The sessions are brilliant. I have so much more energy and feel so good after participating in the classes. It’s a great way to socialise with others in the same boat as you, and the weekly resources and tips about menopause are so helpful.”

BH Live is committed to inspiring more people to improve their health and wellbeing by moving more regularly and reducing barriers to physical activity. Other health and wellbeing initiatives in Bournemouth include Swim Free in Pregnancy, PD (Parkinson’s Disease) Challenge, Beat The Pause menopause sessions, guided health walks, and much more.


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