NEW Zumba and Pilates classes are being introduced in Catshill - with council chiefs saying they will bend over backwards to help fulfil residents' exercise needs.

From September 5, the new sessions will run every Thursday at Catshill Village Hall, with Zumba classes from 1-2pm, followed by Pilates from 2-3pm.

The classes - set up due to requests from councillors and residents - are open to anyone and are pay as you go at £3.30 per session.

Pilates focuses on all-over body strengthening and core strength for general fitness and wellbeing, and is particularly good for the lower back and stomach muscles after childbirth.

Zumba, meanwhile, involves exercising to the beats of salsa, flamenco, and merengue music.

For more information on the classes, visit www.bromsgrove.gov.uk, call Sports Development on 01527 881404 or email sd@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk

Cllr Shirley Webb, portfolio holder for health and wellbeing and Catshill ward member, said: “The council’s community sessions provide opportunities for residents who might not be able to access traditional ways of exercising, like gyms and established classes which can be quite expensive, difficult and sometimes intimidating.

“We are always trying to respond to feedback from residents to plug any gaps in the provision of health and fitness opportunities.

"My constituents in Catshill were really keen to have more opportunities to exercise so I am pleased we can now deliver this and hope to see lots of them there.”