Dads feeling the pressure of juggling work and family are being invited to join a new fitness and support program.
Working Out Dads is a free six-week program by Footscray-based early parenting organisation Tweddle, supported by the North Western Primary Health Network.
It’s for fathers experiencing stress, anxiety or depression, or who have a partner experiencing mental health or parenting difficulties.
Participants work on developing parenting skills and confidence, building relationships and juggling the needs of family, work and self.
Tweddle chief executive Jacquie O’Brien said there had been a lack of practical education in Melbourne’s west for dads.
“Researchers have identified that being an involved father brings with it many health and social benefits to dads, mums, children and the extended family,” she said.
“Working Out Dads gives men the chance to chat about parenting, relationships, mental health, fitness and wellbeing.”
The program for dads of children up to four years combines an hour of open discussion and 30 minutes of guided fitness at RecWest in West Footscray.
RecWest fitness facilitator Nathan Tarr is encouraging men to join the program.
“It’s about helping dads feel strong in all areas of their life, parenting, relationships and health and wellbeing,” he said.
The first group of 10 fathers will meet from 7-8.30pm on Thursday, April 21. Further details: www.tweddle.org.au
