WOMEN and girls across Bury will be able to enjoy two new exercise classes as part of a multi-million pound pilot scheme to promote a healthier lifestyle.

Piloxing and belrobics classes have been launched in the borough this week, under the £2.8 million I Will If You Will initiative.

Piloxing, described as a blend of pilates and boxing, is aimed at creating a low impact but high intensity workout, while belrobics is a mix of belly dancing and aerobics, offering an alternative to traditional aerobic routines.

The classes will be held at a number of locations in Bury, Ramsbottom and Prestwich, and are suitable for all levels, including beginners.

Julie Porter, I Will If You Will studio co-ordinator, said: “All the classes are designed to build confidence and improve fitness — we want women to feel as comfortable as possible while having a blast with their friends.

“We now have six fully trained belrobics instructors across the borough and they are ready and raring to go to teach local women and girls how to shimmy.

“We have lots more planned for I Will If You Will over the next few months. I’d like to encourage Bury ladies to join in and visit the website to keep posted on activities, new classes and events.”

In addition to the two classes, I Will If You Will has introduced Fitness Parties, which include 20-minute sessions of piloxing, belrobics, zumba, pilates, metafit and burlesque.

The I Will If You Will programme has received National Lottery funding from Sport England and Bury Council and was introduced to address the gap between the number of men and women playing sport.

For more information about the exercise classes: visit iwillifyouwill.co.uk.