It's Wimbledon week and the tennis bug has bitten the nation! But what about those who'd love to join in on the action, only to be deterred by the cost? Well, put your wallet away and get ready to serve – because free sport is no longer just a pipedream!
According to Simon Hayes, chief exec of Sport England, you shouldn't let cash constraints stop you from getting active. 'It's not about being affluent or having access to the latest gear,' he says. 'We want everyone to be able to get out there and enjoy their favourite sport – regardless of where they live or how much dosh they've got.' And with initiatives like free tennis sessions in local parks, courtesy of the Lawn Tennis Association, it's now easier than ever to take a swing at the game.
It's not just about tennis, though. Cricket's another British summer classic that's getting a revamp – thanks to Chance to Shine, which delivers hundreds of free street cricket sessions across the country. And for those with sight loss, British Blind Sport is providing 'Have a Go' days where you can give rowing, rugby and more a go completely free!
But running and walking don't need to cost a bean – Parkrun's got your back! These free 5k events pop up every Saturday morning in parks nationwide, making it easy for all ages and abilities to get involved. And with regional campaigns like 'This Girl Can' and 'London Sport Get Active', there's no shortage of ways to get moving and stay active.
At a local level, charities are the real MVPs – offering everything from free table tennis sessions in Brighton to street dance classes in Blackpool. It's a testament to just how committed communities are to making sport accessible to all – regardless of your bank balance or zip code!