Dozens of housing association tenants have got off the couch for a taste of a fitter lifestyle with free exercise sessions.

Merton Priory Homes said more than 70 residents had taken part in running, outdoor gym sessions and zumba dance classes over the past two months as part of its free fitness programme.

The Zumba dance classes were so popular that the programme was extended for an extra three weeks.

Shannon Steadman from Mitcham took part in the ‘Move Ya Body’ dance video workshops together with her two young children and her two sisters, one of whom is disabled.

She said: “I found it fun to do with the kids and burn off some of the calories I’d put on over the school holiday.

"It was nice meeting people that I have seen around the area but not spoken to them before but we got to know them within the six weeks of the workshop.”

Pauline Ford, managing director of Merton Priory Homes, added: “We are really excited about the ‘Get Fit, Get Active!’ fitness programme, which is an important part of our work to engage with residents and strengthen our communities.

"This is the first time we have organised something like this and it’s great to see so many people getting involved, enjoying themselves and making new friends.”

Residents can call Merton Priory Homes on phone 0300 500 3000 for more information.

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