Fun fitness games to launch in Carterton

GET GOING: Carterton man Mike Thomson is launching a new sports group, Neighbourhood Sports, at the Clareville gymnasium next week. PHOTO/LYNDA FERINGA

A Carterton man is offering adults the chance to relive the fun of physical education by launching a community sports group.

Mike Thomson's new neighbourhood sports group kicks off at the Clareville gymnasium next week, with Mr Thomson hoping people who may not have time for traditional sports will be attracted to the format of fast, "modified" games.

Every week will feature a different theme, canvassing a range of sports from dodgeball to football, with games altered to make them more entertaining.

Each session will feature a warm up exercise, a skill activity and a main tournament or game.

Mr Thomson said it was a good way for people to get back into sports.

"I'm looking at what's a way that people are actually able to get some fitness and activity in a fun way - for a lot of people going to the gym or running around the block is not their thing."

"The whole basis is about fun and enjoyment through the medium of physical activity."

Neighbourhood sports would suit those who might not be able to commit to regular team practices, he said.

"This is a bit more variety and a bit more freedom in what you do."

A PE teacher with 18 years' experience, Mr Thomson said he decided to change careers after being the victim of a traumatic assault in Upper Hutt on New Year's Eve.

"It was quite a difficult time, but now it's been a catalyst for change and doing something different. I really changed as a person."

He hoped to bring "all the cool stuff from PE" to the Clareville sports group.

The first session, which will include a game of "smorgasball" - a combination of three or four different games and balls - runs from 7pm to 9pm today at the Clareville gymnasium.

Sessions costs $6 and can be booked through neighbourhoodsports@gmail.com