Case Study: Harnessing the Power of Group Exercise to Support Prisoners
Emma Smallman created ‘Drum n Bounce’ in 2012, an uplifting dance fitness brand to drum and bass music. Emma delivers a broad range of classes to a variety of audiences, including those in recovery centres and people serving time in prison.
We recently had the opportunity to speak with one of Emma’s participants who is currently living in an approved premises after serving time in prison. For this reason, their identity has to be kept anonymous, but they were desperate to share their story on how group exercise has helped them. Tanya (false name) only started group exercise when she was sent to prison. Prior to this, she had limited time to focus on her own personal development.
“When I went to prison, I knew I had to focus on improving myself and give myself a sense of direction to prevent my depression from spiralling out of control. I had some very dark thoughts when I first came here but group exercise has helped me to get on top of that.”
Tanya suffers from severe anxiety which has always been heightened when in group settings. “I used to struggle in supermarkets or on the bus when it would get too crowded. Sometimes I would have to get off. Since I have started Emma’s class, I am more comfortable and confident in group settings. When I leave the Approved Premises, I will feel more confident applying for jobs and being around others.”
Alongside this, Tanya has lost over four stone since she started group exercise in prison and her asthma symptoms have gone away as a result. “I have a fitness DVD that I followed with other inmates. After a few months I noticed that I wasn’t getting as tired anymore.” Tanya always encourages other residents to give group exercise a go in the Approved Premises and she feels as though the environment is so much better when people are exercising together.
She said:
“The great thing about group exercise is it can be adapted to suit every person depending on how they feel that day. It is like therapy for me. Sometimes I don’t feel up to doing a full class but just enjoy being in a positive environment with others. The fact that it is so accessible and inclusive is really good for my mental wellbeing as I am no longer as anxious as I was.”
Tanya is keen to continue doing group exercise in the future, citing the fact that she wants to channel her energy into positive and personally rewarding outlets when she leaves her approved premises. That being said, both Tanya and Emma expressed concern about the opportunities available to people like Tanya once they leave prison. Emma said that the jump from classes in prison or probation (with an instructor you are comfortable with) to a traditional class at a leisure centre is too big.
“We needed clearer and more structured pathways to get people like Tanya participating in group exercise in the community. Group exercise has so many upsides and can truly benefit everyone. We just need to provide people with the access and opportunity to see for themselves.”
This is just one of the 10 case studies featured in the EMD UK Social Value of Group Exercise report, exploring the ways in which group exercise can improve the lives of those it supports.
To read the rest of the case studies, and explore the full findings of the report, click the button below.
