As the weather improves and the evenings grow lighter, Wheatley Bowls Club has reopened its green for the outdoor season. Bowls, according to the NHS, is a low-impact, moderate-intensity exercise that can be as beneficial as high-impact activities such as running in reducing the risk of heart disease. Players may walk up to three miles during a match, providing excellent physical activity for the legs, while the repetitive action of delivering a bowl also strengthens the arms, making it a full-body workout.
One of the key elements of bowls is precision – delivering the wood as close to the jack as possible. This calls for strong hand-eye coordination, which improves with practice and enhances mental alertness and concentration. In addition to the physical and mental benefits, bowls also promotes social connection and fosters a sense of community, which is vital for emotional wellbeing.
Wheatley Bowls Club welcomes both seasoned and novice players.
Weekly ‘roll-up’ sessions take place on Saturday afternoons from 1.45pm at the club’s green, located next to the village hall car park in South Wheatley. The entrance is opposite the Post Office. Newcomers can expect a warm and friendly environment with informal sessions, and there is no requirement to wear club whites outside of match play.
The club is pleased to offer guidance and can provide equipment for those just starting out. Players are simply asked to wear flat-soled shoes to protect the green. For those looking for competitive play, the club fields teams in the Gainsborough League (Monday and Wednesday evenings), the Isle of Axholme Senior League (Tuesday afternoons), and the Ordsall League (Thursday afternoons).
Anyone is welcome to try a session for free – there’s only a 30p charge for a cup of tea. Membership is just £25.00 for the first year, making it an affordable way to stay active and meet new people.
For more information, contact Mary on 01427 884778.