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Thrive Leisure

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About he thrives

he thrives is a new campaign celebrating men in County Durham who take part in physical activity.

The campaign recognises their achievements, promotes the wide range of opportunities available to support men’s health and wellbeing, and encourages others to get involved. By sharing real stories and highlighting the benefits of being active, he thrives shines a light on the positive impact exercise has on both physical and mental health.

This November, to mark Movember and International Men’s Day, we are celebrating men who thrive through physical activity and community involvement, from volunteers and grass roots coaches to gym members and swim teachers, shining a light on those who inspire others and help our communities stay active.

Alongside our regular activities, this November we’re offering some extra opportunities for men across County Durham to get more physically active, see below for more details.

    Recreational 5-a-side Sessions

    In partnership with Durham FA, we’re delivering free recreational 5-a-side football sessions throughout November as part of the he thrives campaign. These sessions are designed for men who might not usually have the opportunity to play regular football but still want to enjoy the game, get active, and meet new people. Sessions run weekly at Peterlee, Meadowfield, Consett and Spennymoor leisure centres, with the aim of building lasting groups that can continue beyond the campaign.

    Click on the name of your local leisure centre above to book your place. 

    Date Time Venue
    Tuesday 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th 5.30pm till 6.30pm Consett Leisure Centre
    Tuesday 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th 8.00pm till 9.00pm Meadowfield Leisure Centre
    Friday 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th 5.30pm till 6.30pm Peterlee Leisure Centre
    Friday 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th 8.00pm till 9.00pm Spennymoor Leisure Centre

     

     

      Walking Cricket Taster Sessions

      In partnership with Durham Cricket Foundation, we’re offering free Walking Cricket taster sessions throughout November as part of the he thrives campaign. These sessions are a slower-paced version of the game, making cricket more accessible while still keeping all the fun and camaraderie. 

      They’re a great way for men to stay active, try something new, and enjoy the social side of sport in a relaxed and welcoming environment. With support from Durham Cricket Foundation, these tasters aim to spark lasting interest while also signposting men to existing Walking Cricket groups in the county, helping them stay active and connected well beyond the campaign. 

      Date Time Venue
      Monday 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th 4.00pm till 5.00pm Freemans Quay Leisure Centre

      No need to book just go along wearing suitable and comfortable clothing – all equipment will be provided. 

        Balls & Brew Taster Sessions

        Never Swung a Club? …….Perfect. 

        Join our Balls & Brew golf taster sessions at Cocken Lodge Golf Club. 

        Ever fancied giving golf a go but not sure where to start? Our men-only taster sessions are the perfect chance to have a laugh, whack some balls, and see what all the fuss is about. 

        You’ll be on the driving range with Trackman technology, so you’ll know exactly how far (and how straight… or not!) your shots are flying. All equipment is provided, so just turn up as you are. No pressure, no stuffy dress codes – just good craic, a few swings, and a free hot drink to keep you warm. 

        • For men who’ve never tried golf before
        • Friendly, Fun, no judgement
        • Trackman-powered driving range experience
        • All equipment provided 
        • Free hot drink included 
        Date Time Venue
        Monday 3rd, 10th,17th and 24th 6.00pm till 7.00pm Cocken Lodge Golf Course

        Go on, grab your balls and book your spot today telephone 0191 5841053 

          Free Men's Taster Events - Try Something New

          This November, we’re hosting a series of men’s taster events across County Durham. These sessions give you the chance to: 

          • Try out a variety of sports and activities in a relaxed, welcoming environment
          • Meet and network with other men from your community
          • Find out more about men’s health, wellbeing, and the support groups available locally

          No need to book! Just turn up and join in.

          Whether you’re looking to get active, connect with others, or simply give something new a go, our taster events are a great place to start. Check out the details below to see where and when you can get involved. 

          Date Time Venue Activity
          Saturday 15th 10.00am till 12.00pm Louisa Centre Tag Active/Multi Sports Tasters & Social 
          Tuesday 18th 6.30pm till 7.30pm Peterlee Leisure Centre Men’s Bowling & Social
          Wednesday 19th 5.00pm till 7.00pm Spennymoor Leisure Centre Multi-Sport Taster & Social
          Friday 28th 11.00am till 1.00pm Shildon Leisure Centre Multi-Sport Taster & Social 

           

            Technogym Challenge

            This November, we’re inviting men across County Durham to move with purpose, push their limits, and thrive together. 

            Join our “he moves” virtual challenge via the Technogym App and take part in a month-long movement mission designed to boost physical and mental wellbeing. Whether you’re walking, running, cycling, or training in the gym… every MOVE counts!

            How It Works 

            • Download the Technogym App
            • Join the “he moves” challenge
            • Track your activity throughout November 
            • Earn MOVE points and unlock your chance to win big! 

            Challenge Goals & Prizes 

            🏆 Reach 50,000 MOVE points and be entered into a prize draw to win 1 of 2 annual memberships to our leisure centres. 

            🏅 Reach 30,000 MOVE points and be entered into a prize draw to win 1 of 2 three-month memberships. 

            🎯 Reach 20,000 MOVE points and be entered into a prize draw to win 1 of 2 one-month memberships. 

            Why Join? 

            • Boost your fitness and wellbeing 
            • Stay motivated with a community of like-minded men 
            • Win fantastic prizes 
            • Be part of a movement that celebrates strength, resilience, and thriving together 

            On Demand Classes

            Dad’s Time Out… Short on time. Big on impact. 

            Life’s busy. Between school runs, work, and family time, finding space for yourself can feel impossible. That’s why Dad’s Time Out is here — a series of quick, effective workouts available anytime on the Technogym App, designed especially for dads and male carers. 

            Whether it’s 10 minutes before the kids wake up or a 20-minute break between meetings, these on-demand sessions help you move more, feel better, and thrive — without needing hours in the gym. 

            ✅ No equipment needed 

             ✅ Workouts from just 10 minutes 

             ✅ Anytime, anywhere access 

             ✅ Feel stronger, more energised, and ready for whatever life throws at you 

            Your time matters. Your health does too. Take a time out — for you. 

            Free 7 Day Pass

            Ready to kickstart your wellbeing journey? As part of Durham County Council’s he thrives campaign, we’re offering free 7-day membership passes to help you explore everything our leisure centres have to offer. 

            Whether you’re looking to get active, unwind, or try something new, this is your chance to experience our facilities and activities at no cost. This free pass is your invitation to take that first step for your body, your mind, and your future. 

            What’s Included? 

            • Unlimited access to gyms, swimming pools, and fitness classes 
            • Friendly, supportive staff to help you get started 
            • A wide range of activities for all fitness levels 
            • A welcoming environment to help you thrive 

            How to Claim Your Pass 

            Simply visit your local Durham County Council leisure centre or click on the get offer button below. No commitment, no pressure – just 7 days to see how good it feels to move, connect, and thrive. 

            Men's Stories

            Bringing communities together through activity – click the links below to see how men across County Durham are staying active and inspiring others. 

            Peter shares how walking has kept him active for over 40 years

            Find out how Sonny is building his fitness at Seaham Leisure Centre while preparing to represent Scotland’s Amputee National Team

            Ryan is thriving at Consett Gym, gaining confidence and strength despite living with a rare condition! 

            At 71, Mike McGuire is still lifting, mentoring, and inspiring – read his story

            Find out how dads and male carers are being supported locally

            How Peter turned a weekly stroll into a lifeline for his community 

            Read how Barry found that a little encouragement and shared interests can help men get involved, connect and volunteer. 

            From struggling with motivation to running the Great North Run – John’s journey shows how getting active and finding support can transform health and confidence. 

            Stewart’s journey shows how getting active can boost confidence, improve movement, and bring people together. 

            Celebrating Ben’s journey as he rises amongst the worlds top 400m hurdlers

            How walking football is helping men in Stanley stay active and connected.

            Find out how Spennymoor Leisure Centre’s Walking Cricket sessions combine gentle exercise with great company every week

            Dave’s Story

              Useful Links

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