Looking for START A GROUP OR CLUB in Norfolk?
Getting active is better with company – and starting your own activity group doesn’t have to cost a penny. Whether it’s running, walking, cycling, sea swimming, Nordic walking, or beach games, creating a local group helps you stay motivated, meet new people, and build community.
Once your group is up and running, you could even apply for up to £500 from the Great Yarmouth Sport & Leisure Trust (GYSLT) to support equipment, promotion, or other costs.
Here are some tips on how to get started with creating your own club or group…
1. Choose Your Activity
Pick something you enjoy and feel confident leading: running, walking, cycling, sea swimming, Nordic walking, beach games, or outdoor fitness sessions. Start small – one short session a week is enough to begin.
Top Tip: Start with an activity you love – enthusiasm is contagious and helps attract participants.
2. RESEARCH & INSPIRATION
Once you’ve chosen your activity, explore what’s already happening locally. Look at existing clubs and activity groups to:
Identify what’s popular and where there’s space for something new
Gain ideas for formats, routes, and session timings
Learn from the successes (and mistakes) of others
Build low-level networks with other leaders for advice
Top Tip: Chat with other local group leaders for practical advice and tips to make your sessions run smoothly.
3. Safety & Responsibility
All participants are responsible for their own safety. Before joining any activity, ensure you're aware of potential risks and take appropriate precautions. For practical guidance on health and safety for community groups, see the Resource Centre – Health and Safety page.
Top Tip: Keep sessions simple and encourage participants to act responsibly – fun and safety go hand in hand.
4. Pick a Safe, Accessible Location
Choose a location that’s easy to find, safe, and welcoming. Parks, promenades, woodland trails, riverside paths, lifeguarded beaches, outdoor gyms, and open spaces work well. Scout your spot first, check hazards and access, and ensure it suits all abilities.
Top Tip: Do a test run of the route or location to spot any potential hazards and landmarks that make it easy to meet up.
5. Promote Your Group
Spread the word without spending a penny:
Social media (dedicated page or local community groups)
Community noticeboards (libraries, cafés, leisure centres)
Free event listings (e.g., Eventbrite) and local forums
Word of mouth – invite friends and family
Top Tip: Use simple photos or short videos to show the activity in action – it’s much more engaging than text alone.
6. Keep It Inclusive and Friendly
Encourage all abilities, suggest buddies, and provide alternatives if needed. Celebrate milestones, share photos (with permission), and post updates to make everyone feel part of the community. Regular sessions and a welcoming vibe keep participants coming back.
Top Tip: Make every session welcoming – greet newcomers personally and encourage them to stick around.
7. Grow Your Group
Once established, ask for feedback, introduce variety, and consider collaborating with local organisations for guidance or support.
Top Tip: Keep things fresh by rotating routes or introducing new activities occasionally to keep members engaged.
8. Apply for Funding
Groups can apply for up to £500 from GYSLT to support equipment, promotion, or other activity costs. Funding is open to local groups across Great Yarmouth, Gorleston, and surrounding areas that encourage free or low-cost participation.
Top Tip: Track attendance and keep a simple record of activities – it helps when applying for funding.
9. Keep It Free
All activities – walking, running, cycling, Nordic walking, geocaching, sea swimming, or beach games – can be done at zero cost. Focus on community, wellbeing, and accessibility, making it easy for everyone to join and for your group to grow.
Top Tip: Emphasise the free, accessible nature of your sessions in all promotion – it encourages more people to try it.
10. Celebrate Your Community Impact
Starting a group isn’t just about fitness – it’s about bringing people together and creating something meaningful. Enjoy the fact that you’re helping your community stay active, connected, and happy.
Top Tip: Share stories or photos of your group’s impact – it motivates your members and inspires others to get involved.
Apply for a Great Yarmouth Sport & Leisure Trust grant
If you are part of an amazing sport or leisure team, or maybe run a leisure or fitness activity, and would like to apply for up to £500 of funding, we are taking applications now. Take a look at our Grant Application page. And, check what's running near you via our regular blogs, Facebook or Instagram.
