A group of unemployed people has taken part in an innovative health and fitness programme designed to help them find work.

Twelve people, who had been out of work for six months or more, completed a 10-week pilot scheme which was devised by leisure trust Oldham Community Leisure (OCL) and Oldham Council in Greater Manchester.

The pilot programme consisted of a 60-minute fitness session each week at Oldham Leisure Centre. The sessions included strength and conditioning exercise classes, studio cycling, stretch and tone work and high-intensity interval training, as well as advice on nutrition.

Participants said the programme helped improve confidence and motivation, as well as physical and mental wellbeing.

Of the 12 people, three found employment and five are either taking part or have been offered work experience.

“I’ve seen a change in motivation, confidence and self-esteem in those who attended the majority of the sessions and although I can’t guarantee that this was a factor in those individuals who found employment or work experience, I would like to think it did play a large part, especially in interview situations,” said James Ogborn, the council’s programme officer for Get Oldham Working.

Louise Walton, head of human resources at OCL, which runs six fitness facilities in the town, said: “Being unemployed can be very stressful, but regular exercise can help to reduce anxiety and stress, and we have seen how it has given these individuals the self-confidence they need to find employment going forward.”

The council, which funded the project, is looking to roll out the scheme.