Alcohol Awareness Week is a national campaign that invites us all to take a step back and think about our relationship with alcohol – and how small changes can lead to big improvements in our health and wellbeing.

Whether you’re looking to feel more energised, boost your fitness, or improve your overall health, cutting back on alcohol can be a powerful way to support a healthier lifestyle!

How Does Alcohol Affect Your Health?

Alcohol is often part of social occasions or winding down at the end of the day – but over time, even moderate consumption can impact your body and mind.

Did you know that drinking within the recommended limit of 14 units per week can still affect:

· Sleep – Alcohol disrupts deep sleep cycles, leaving you feeling tired and unrested.

· Mood and mental health – It’s a depressant, which can increase anxiety, low mood, and irritability.

· Weight and fitness – Alcohol is high in empty calories and can slow metabolism, making it harder to maintain a healthy weight.

· Heart and liver health – Long-term drinking is linked to high blood pressure, liver damage, and other health concerns.

The good news? Reducing your intake can make a difference almost immediately – clearer thinking, better mood, more energy, and lower health risks.

Fitness and Alcohol – A Hidden Obstacle

You’ve set your fitness goals, you’re showing up – but your progress feels stuck. One often-overlooked factor? Alcohol.

Here’s how it can hold you back:

· Dehydration – Alcohol is a diuretic that inhibits a hormone that helps your kidneys hold on to water, slowing recovery and increasing fatigue.

· Poor nutrition – Alcohol lowers inhibitions, making it more likely to reach for less nutritious food. It can also reduce your absorption of key nutrients like vitamins B and C.

· Interrupted recovery – Alcohol interferes with sleep, meaning less energy for your next workout.

Try swapping your usual drink for water or a no-alcohol alternative a few nights a week. You might be surprised how much lighter, stronger, and more focused you feel.

Myth Buster: Can You ‘Sweat Out’ a Hangover?

You’ve had a big night, and your instinct is to hit the gym the next morning to “sweat it out.” Sound familiar?

Unfortunately, it’s not quite how it works. No amount of exercise can remove alcohol from your system – your liver does that, and it takes time.

When you drink, your body becomes dehydrated as your kidneys work overtime. Add sweating from exercise into the mix, and you’re likely to feel even more drained. Alcohol also affects your liver’s ability to produce glucose (your energy source), making you more prone to fatigue and low performance during physical activity.

If you’re planning to exercise, the best advice is to keep your alcohol intake low the night before – or avoid it entirely. That way, you can make the most of the mood-boosting, stress-reducing benefits of movement without the added drag of dehydration and tiredness.

Your Challenge This Alcohol Awareness Week

This week, we’re inviting our community to take part in a few simple steps:

· Go alcohol-free for 2–3 days this week and take note of how you feel.

· Track your habits using a free app or journal – a small change in awareness can make a big difference.

· Get moving – trade your usual drink for a yoga class, swim, or walk in the fresh air.

· Share your journey – talk to friends or join the conversation using #AlcoholAwarenessWeek.

Tools to Help You Make Healthier Choices

Looking to build healthier habits around alcohol? These free tools and resources can help you stay on track:

Drinkaware – Unit calculators, drink diaries, and tips to reduce drinking. 🔗 www.drinkaware.co.uk

Try Dry app – A motivating way to track alcohol-free days, set goals, and see your progress. 🔗 www.trydry.com

NHS Better Health – Drink Less – Practical tools, tips, and a 7-day plan to help reduce alcohol intake. 🔗 www.nhs.uk/better-health/drink-less

NHS Inform – Alcohol Support – Clear, reliable advice on cutting back and staying well. 🔗 www.nhsinform.scot

Join the Conversation

Want to learn more?

· Follow us on social media.

· Chat with our friendly team at your local leisure centre.

· Or explore new ways to support your wellbeing through movement and mindfulness.

A Note of Care

Everyone’s relationship with alcohol is different. This blog is intended to raise awareness and encourage healthier lifestyle choices – it is not medical advice.

If you or someone you know may be struggling with alcohol dependency, support is available. You’re not alone, and reaching out is a brave first step.

Here are a few places you can turn for confidential help:

· We Are With You – Fife
Free, local support for people concerned about alcohol use
🔗 wearewithyou.org.uk/services/fife

· FASS – Fife Alcohol Support Service
Professional counselling and psychotherapy for people affected by alcohol
🔗 www.fassaction.org.uk

· Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) – 24/7 helpline: 0800 9177 650

· Drinkline (NHS) – Free, national helpline: 0300 123 111

A huge well done to the Fife players, as well as the Fife Sports and Leisure Trust ambassadors, members, and customers, who took part in the Scottish National Pickleball Championships 2025. Your energy, determination, and success on the court made us proud! 

The Championships, hosted by Pickleball Scotland, were held at the National Racket Academy in Scotstoun, Glasgow from 29th May to 1st June. The atmosphere, competition, and camaraderie were second to none. 

This year, Fife was represented in almost all of the categories and had some brilliant results! Among the players representing Fife were two of Fife Sports and Leisure Trust’s Pickleball Ambassadors, Shirley and Stuart, who brought their enthusiasm, experience, and love for the game to the national stage. 

Proud to Represent Fife

As Pickleball Ambassadors for Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, both players felt a strong sense of purpose in competing.

Shirley represented Fife in the National Open Mixed Doubles . “I was so aware I was representing Fife,” Shirley said. “People were watching me live, texting me mid-match, one even said, ‘She’ll be needing to give autographs soon!’ It made me want to give it my best.” 

Stuart agreed: “A few years ago, there were maybe five of us from Fife at the competition. This year? There were over 20. That’s huge. It shows how far we’ve come.” 

Stuart competed in both the Over-65s Men’s Doubles (Thursday) and Over-65s Mixed Doubles (Sunday) and delivered a standout performance that earned him Bronze in the Men’s Doubles and Silver in the Mixed Doubles.  

“Sunday was full-on, we played eight games in one day,” he said. “Getting to the final and coming away with a medal, it really meant something. It was a moment I’ll always remember.” 

Across the two days of competition, Stuart played an incredible 15 games and won 12 of them, an achievement that speaks to both his commitment and level of play. But it wasn’t just about the wins. 

“The atmosphere was electric,” he said. “You’d come off court and even strangers were clapping, cheering, congratulating you. It felt like everyone was in it together. I’ve played in other tournaments, but this one stood out. There was just this amazing energy from start to finish.” 

He also reflected on how the sport continues to positively shape his lifestyle. 

“Pickleball keeps me fit, keeps me social, and keeps me sharp,” he added. “I honestly feel healthier now than I did ten years ago.”

Taking to the Court

For Shirley, the Championships marked a return to the competitive arena through a new sport she’s grown to love. Having discovered pickleball in August 2024 and become an ambassador in January 2025, she brought her past sporting experience and fresh enthusiasm to the national stage.

“It was my first experience of a pickleball tournament, and I was genuinely excited to see what it would be like,” she said. “I didn’t know my partner beforehand, but I was open-minded, we were both there to give it our best, and that’s exactly what we did. Most of the players in my category were younger than me, but that just added to the fun! I’ve always loved a challenge, and walking into the venue that first morning, the energy was electric. Everyone was so welcoming, it was impossible not to get swept up in the buzz of it all.” 

Stuart has been involved in pickleball since its early days in Fife and has proudly served as an ambassador for over three years.

“I was asked back in 2022 to become an ambassador, before many had even heard of the sport. Since then, I’ve played five or six times a week,” he said. This year marked his third national tournament appearance. He added, “This community is incredible, it’s like walking into a room full of old friends. You’re met with ‘hi, hi, hi’ from all directions.”

Support, Encouragement, and Lessons Learned

While medals were a bonus, both Shirley and Stuart found just as much value in the atmosphere and learning opportunities. 

“I’ve never seen that level of tactical play before,” said Shirley. “Dinking, strategy, control, it’s a different game from what we usually play. But everyone was supportive and encouraging. I learned more in one day than in months of regular play.” 

“When you’re competing game after game, you have to stay sharp,” Stuart added. “In the final, we were getting thumped, but we clawed back. That focus, that drive, it’s part of the fun!” 

Celebrating Local Achievement

What stood out most was the success of their fellow Fifers. 

“Aileen and Tracey winning gold in the Over-50s Ladies Doubles was such a proud moment,” said Shirley. “We were all sharing the livestream links, my daughter watched from Edinburgh Airport!” 

“My son was at the event to support me but ended up watching the rest of the matches on the train home,” Stuart added. “He texted me, ‘Are they in the final yet?’ and streamed the match live. It was amazing.” 

Both reflected on how impressive this level of achievement is, especially given Fife is still in the early stages of growing the sport. 

A Game That Brings People Together

Both ambassadors spoke passionately about how pickleball has changed their lives. 

“I retired last year and didn’t know what to do with myself,” said Shirley. “Now, I joke that I spend more time with my pickleball family than I do with my real one! But truly, it’s helped me physically, mentally, and socially. It’s been life-changing.” 

Stuart added, “People don’t realise they’ve just played for two hours. A year ago, they were barely active, and now look at them. The transformation is incredible. Pickleball brings people together. It keeps you moving, it lifts your mood, and you’re part of something bigger. That’s what it’s all about.”

A Movement in Fife

Beyond the results and rallies, it’s clear that pickleball in Fife has grown into something far greater than just a game. 

“It’s the connections you make,” said Stuart. “The support, the laughs, the shared passion, it gives people purpose.” 

As Shirley put it: “It’s about turning up, being welcomed, and realising you’ve still got it. That you’re part of something exciting. It’s never too late to start something new.” 

With medals on the board, friendships forged, and a wave of new players inspired, this year’s Scottish National Championships marked a real turning point, not just for Stuart and Shirley, but for the future of pickleball in Fife. 

Give Pickleball a Go!

Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned racquet-sport player, there’s a place for you in Fife’s growing pickleball community. 

• Try a session – Find a local class and give pickleball a go: https://www.fifeleisure.org.uk/activity/pickleball/#timetables-block
• Play more, for less – Add our Play Add On to your Club or Lite membership for just £8 per month and access exclusive pickleball and 49er sessions. Ask about upgrading your membership at any of our venues!
• Stay connected – Join our Fife Pickleball Facebook Group, home to over 750 members, for the latest updates, events, and community news. https://www.facebook.com/groups/570312078335855  

Looking for fun, affordable ways to keep your children active, healthy, and entertained during the school holidays? We’ve got you covered

Our Summer 2025 Holiday Programme is packed with exciting activities for children and families across Fife. With support from Fife Council and local community partners, the programme runs from Monday 7th July to Tuesday 19th August and includes £1 activities, and incredible value sports camps!

What’s on:

Quid-a-Kid Activities – Just £1!

Available for juniors aged 17 and under (subject to programme and venue opening times):

• Football & Racquet Sports: Monday to Sunday, 9.00am – 5.00pm
• Swimming: Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 5.00pm
• Adults can join football or racquet sports for just £2 per visit

New for 2025: Football Camps with Raith Rovers Community Foundation

We’re partnering with Raith Rovers Community Foundation to bring high-energy, professionally led football camps to Beacon Leisure Centre this summer!

Whether your child is new to football or already scoring goals in their local league, these camps are designed to build confidence, boost skills, and encourage teamwork in a fun, friendly environment.

Ages 5 to 13 | £50 per child – 5 Day Camp

Beacon Leisure Centre
• Monday 21st – Friday 25th July | 11.00am – 3.00pm
• Monday 11th – Friday 15th August | 11.00am – 3.00pm

Summer Sports & Activity Camps

Active Kids Camps

Ages 8 to 12 | £75 per child – 5 Day Camp

Michael Woods Sports and Leisure Centre
• Monday 7th – Friday 11th July | 9.00am – 4.00pm
• Monday 21st – Friday 25th July | 9.00am – 4.00pm
• Monday 4th – Friday 8th August | 9.00am – 4.00pm
• Monday 11th – Friday 15th August | 9.00am – 4.00pm

Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre
• Monday 14th – Friday 18th July | 9.00am – 4.00pm
• Monday 28th July – Friday 1st August | 9.00am – 4.00pm
• Monday11th – Friday 15th August | 9.00am – 4.00pm

Pitreavie Athletics Centre (No swimming)
• Monday 7th – Friday 11th July | 9.00am – 4.00pm
• Monday 14th– Friday 18th July | 9.00am – 4.00pm
• Monday 21st – Friday 25th July | 9.00am – 4.00pm
• Monday 4th – Friday 8th August | 9.00am – 4.00pm

Athletics Camp

Primary 1 to 7 | £43.20 per child – 3 Day Camp

Michael Woods Sports and Leisure Centre
• Monday 28th July to Wednesday 30th July | 9.00am to 12.00pm

Basketball Camp

Primary 1 to 7 | £14.40 per child – 1 Day Camp

Levenmouth Swimming Pool and Sports Centre
• Wednesday 23rd July | 9.00am – 12.00pm

Freestyle Dance Camps

Primary 1 to 7 | £43.20 per child – 3 Day Camp

• Wednesday 30th July – Friday 1st August | 9.00am – 12.00pm

Primary 1 to 7 | £14.40 per child – 1 Day Camp

Duloch Leisure Centre
• Tuesday 8th July | 9.00am – 12.00pm

Michael Woods Sports and Leisure Centre
• Friday 18th July | 9.00am – 12.00pm

Levenmouth Swimming Pool and Sports Centre
• Wednesday 6th August | 9.00am – 12.00pm

Beacon Leisure Centre
• Friday 8th August | 12.00pm – 3.00pm

Gymnastics Camps

Primary 3 to 7 | £43.20 per child – 3 Day Camp

Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre
• Monday 21st – Wednesday 23rd July | 9.00am – 12.00pm
• Monday 4th– Wednesday 6th August | 9.00am – 12.00pm

Levenmouth Swimming Pool and Sports Centre
• Monday 28th July– Wednesday 1st August | 9.00am – 12.00pm
• Wednesday 13th – Friday 15th August | 9.00am – 12.00pm

Racquet Sports Camps

Tennis Camps – Primary 1 to 3 | £14.40 per child – 1 Day Camp

• Monday 14th July – Dalgety Bay Leisure Centre | 9.00am – 12.00pm
• Tuesday 15th July – Duloch Leisure Centre | 9.00am – 12.00pm
• Wednesday 16th July – Carnegie Leisure Centre | 9.00am – 12.00pm
• Friday 18th July – Michael Woods Sports and Leisure Centre | 9.00am – 12.00pm

Pickleball Camp – Primary 4 to 7 | £14.40 per child – 1 Day Camp

• Monday 14th July – Michael Woods Sports and Leisure Centre | 9.00am – 12.00pm

Mixed Racquet Sports Camps – Primary 1 to 7 | £28.80 per child – 2 Day Camp

• Thursday 24th – Friday 25th July – Levenmouth Swimming Pool and Sports Centre
| 9.00am – 12.00pm
• Thursday 7th – Friday 8th August – Levenmouth Swimming Pool and Sports Centre
| 9.00am – 12.00pm

Football Camps

Primary 1 to 7 | £50 per child – 5 Day Camp

Michael Woods Sports and Leisure Centre
In partnership with Active Fife
• Monday 14th – Friday 18th July | 9.00am – 1.00pm

Primary 1 to 7 | £15 per child – 1 Day Camp

Waterstone Crook Sports Centre
In partnership with Active Fife
• Friday 11th July | 10.00am – 3.00pm
• Friday 15th August | 10.00am – 3.00pm

Swimming Camps

We’re also running swimming intensive camps across several venues – perfect for building water confidence and swimming skills! For our full schedule, visit: Summer Swimming Intensives – Fife Sports and Leisure Trust

What to Bring

To help your child make the most of their day, please pack:

• A refillable water bottle – Hydration Stations are on site.
• Healthy snacks/lunch – or grab something from our cafés.
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
• Light, comfortable clothing and trainers.
• Swimwear, towel, and goggles for swimming activities.

How to Book

Spaces are limited and go fast – book early to avoid disappointment!
Call or visit the centre where your chosen camp takes place:

• Beacon Leisure Centre – 01592 583383
• Carnegie Leisure Centre – 01383 602304
• Dalgety Bay Leisure Centre – 01383 602306
• Duloch Leisure Centre – 01383 602209
• Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre – 01592 583306
• Levenmouth Swimming Pool – 01334 659325
• Michael Woods Sports and Leisure Centre – 01592 583305
• Pitreavie Athletics Centre – 01383 602212
• Waterstone Sports Centre – 01334 659366

Don’t miss out on a summer filled with sport, fun, and friendship!

Full details at: www.fifeleisure.org.uk/holiday-activities or email junioractivities@fifeleisure.org.uk

The theme for Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 is ‘Community’. In today’s fast-paced world, where stress, loneliness, and uncertainty affect so many, feeling connected can be life-changing.

This Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re reminded that fitness and community are powerful tools in supporting mental health. Movement can calm a racing mind. A smile at reception, a friendly chat in the gym, or a shared laugh during a fitness class can shift your entire day. 

At Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, we believe that connection is at the heart of wellbeing. It’s something we see every day across our venues—not just in the activities we offer, but in the relationships that grow within them. 

As the need for mental health support grows, community isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. With 14 venues across Fife, you’re never far from a space where you can feel welcomed, supported, and seen. 

Whether it’s through our tailored Health and Wellbeing programmes, or simply discovering something new in a fitness class, our venues are more than facilities—they’re places where people come together to move, connect, and heal. 

“The staff were amazing. They went above and beyond, turning what could have been a very lonely and challenging experience into something I didn’t have to face alone. That kind of care and concern is rare, and it made me realise just how special the community at Michael Woods Sports and Leisure Centre is.” – James, Customer Highlights

What Community Means to Our Members

For many of our members, community isn’t about the activity itself—it’s about how it makes them feel. It’s about walking into a venue and being greeted by name. It’s about knowing you’re accepted, no matter your background or ability. 

Community means: 

• Feeling supported—especially on difficult days 
• Finding structure and motivation in shared activity 
• Being part of something bigger than yourself 

Our members tell us that Fife Sports and Leisure Trust venues have become places of personal growth, social connection, and emotional resilience. From long-term health support to Disability Sport Fife sessions, we’re proud to offer spaces where people can thrive—physically, mentally, and socially. 

Stories That Inspire Us All

We launched our Customer Highlights to give our members a voice—a space to share the real stories behind the gym sessions, the swims, and the health classes. 

We know that behind every visit is a journey: someone managing anxiety, rebuilding confidence after illness, or finding community after loss. These aren’t just stories of physical transformation—they’re stories of resilience, belonging, and mental wellbeing. 

By sharing these stories, we’re not just celebrating success—we’re helping others feel less alone. Your story could be the reason someone else finds the strength to start. 

“I was 78 when I first stepped into the gym at Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre. I had no grand ambitions, just a simple desire to get fit. Little did I know, it would become such a crucial part of my routine.” – Edward, Customer Highlights.

What makes our Customer Highlights campaign so powerful is its authenticity. These stories show us what’s possible—and how deeply community support can shape someone’s journey. 

Take Kaye and Graham, for example. After retiring, Kaye joined classes at Michael Woods Sports & Leisure Centre to stay active and meet new people. What she found was more than fitness—it was a warm, welcoming community and friendships that have lasted. 

Or John, who joined Kirkcaldy Leisure Centre a few years ago to improve his fitness and mental health. At first, he felt anxious—unsure if he’d fit in or keep up. But with encouragement from the staff and other members, he pushed through his nerves. Now, he attends multiple classes every week and even trained for a boxing event in March 2025.  

These stories remind us that movement and connection can transform lives—not just physically, but emotionally. They prove that support doesn’t always come from professionals—it often comes from each other.

“Helping others and seeing them succeed has been incredibly fulfilling. When I see someone else achieving their goals, knowing that I played a part in their journey, it fills me with immense joy. That sense of community and purpose is something I never expected to find, and it’s incredibly rewarding. I’m glad I can give back.” – Leon, Customer Highlights

Call to Action: Join the Movement

Your story matters too. Whether it’s a personal victory, a small breakthrough, or an ongoing journey — we want to hear it. 

This Mental Health Awareness Week, you can get involved by: 

• Exploring Our Customer Highlights for inspiration. 
• Sharing your own story to support others.  
• Reaching out to someone new at your local venue. 
• Visiting our venue café’s after a class for a chat and a cuppa. 

Together, we’re not just building better habits—we’re building a better future. One where mental health is openly talked about, where support is easy to find, and where no one feels they have to face things alone. 

So, this Mental Health Awareness Week, be the smile, be the conversation, be the story that someone else needs to hear. 

Because there’s power in community—and you are part of it. #ThisIsMyCommunity 

At Fife Sports and Leisure Trust, we’re all about helping young athletes thrive—and what better way to do that than by learning from a world champion?

We’re excited to welcome Anna McBride to Carnegie and Duloch Leisure Centres. She’ll be leading brand-new Junior Tennis classes from March 2025.

She’s just returned from Australia, where she won her third consecutive Women’s Singles title at the Australian Open Intellectual Disability Championships. That win secured her place as World No.1—an incredible achievement!

Now, she’s bringing her passion for the sport and elite-level experience to Fife, helping young players take their first steps onto the court. Whether your child has never picked up a racket before or they’re already developing their skills, these sessions will be a fantastic opportunity to learn from the very best.

Before her first class, we caught up with Anna to hear about her journey, what it felt like to win another Grand Slam, and why she’s excited to coach in Fife.

Anna’s Tennis Journey

Q: What first got you into tennis? Was there a moment you knew you loved the sport?

Anna: I started playing tennis in 2010. It all began when I picked up a racket at a sports camp—I think it might have been in Kirkcaldy! I was trying out different sports at the time, mainly to help with some personal challenges.

From the very first time I played, I seemed to have a natural feel for it. People even thought I’d been playing for years! Over time, I fell in love with the mental and physical aspects of the game. It pushed me to grow in ways I never expected and has taught me so many valuable life lessons.

Q: You’ve now won three consecutive Australian Open titles—how did it feel to defend your title this year?

Anna: Defending my title was an incredible and humbling experience. Winning once is tough, but maintaining that level year after year takes an enormous amount of dedication and hard work.

Each tournament is different, and every match brings its own challenges. You can never take anything for granted in tennis. My success comes from consistent training, preparation, and a real love for the game—both on and off the court.

Q: What has been the biggest challenge in your tennis career so far, and how did you overcome it?

Anna: There have been plenty of challenges! Injuries and performance slumps are a natural part of any athlete’s journey, and there are definitely times when tennis doesn’t feel as glamorous as people might think.

One of the biggest challenges for me was dealing with the mental side of the sport. Tennis is as much about resilience as it is about skill, and balancing personal wellbeing with performance can be tough. I also faced bullying in school, people told me I would never reach the level I am today, which only made me more determined to prove them wrong.

Tennis gave me a focus—it helped me manage things like insomnia and taught me how to bounce back from setbacks. The ability to keep going, even when things get tough, has been one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned.

Q: What does a typical training day look like for you as a world-class athlete?

Anna: My training schedule is pretty intense! I usually spend two to three hours on the court, about four to five days a week. Those sessions focus on match-based scenarios and specific areas of my game that I want to improve.

Off the court, I spend a lot of time in the gym. Strength, speed, and flexibility training are key. I have access to physiotherapy and fitness trainers through my university. I also compete in university matches on Wednesdays on top of my studies. It’s a full-on schedule, but I love it!

Q: Do you have any role models or inspirations in the world of tennis?

Anna: Definitely! Roger Federer is someone I’ve always admired—his sportsmanship and effortless style of play are incredible. I also really respect Serena Williams for her determination and fight on the court. Rafael Nadal, is another player I look up to—his movement and work ethic are outstanding.

On a personal level, my biggest inspiration is my younger brother. He sadly passed away in September. He had additional needs but was always so full of happiness and courage. Remembering his strength and positivity inspires me to keep pushing forward in my own life and tennis career.

Q: What excites you most about coaching Junior Tennis at Carnegie and Duloch Leisure Centres?

Anna: I love the idea of inspiring and developing the next generation of players. Tennis has given me so much, and I want to pass on that passion.

Seeing young players grow and improve is so rewarding, whether they’re celebrating a small achievement or working towards something bigger. My goal is to create a supportive and positive environment where every child feels encouraged to do their best.

Q: Why should parents consider signing their kids up for these sessions?

Anna: Tennis is a fantastic sport for so many reasons! On a physical level, it helps with coordination, fitness, and focus. But beyond that, it also teaches teamwork, communication and resilience.

One of the biggest things tennis teaches is how to handle frustration and keep going. It’s a sport that challenges you, but that’s where the learning happens.

Plus, it’s a great alternative to screen time—it keeps kids active, social, and engaged. Tennis can be a lifelong sport, and it’s an amazing way for children to make new friends and be part of a supportive community.

Q: What can young players expect from your classes? What will they learn?

Anna: First and foremost, my classes will be fun! I want every player to enjoy their time on the court while learning important skills like:

• Resilience – Learning to bounce back from setbacks.
• Sportsmanship – Being happy for others’ successes and handling wins and losses with grace.
• Confidence – Developing self-belief through skill progression.
• Healthy Competition – Understanding that competitiveness is good when channelled positively.

The goal is for every child to leave feeling stronger, more confident, and excited to keep improving!

Q: Tennis is a sport that builds skills beyond the court—what are some of the key lessons it teaches?

Anna: Absolutely! Tennis isn’t just about hitting a ball—it teaches life skills that go far beyond the game.

For example, trying something new can be scary, but stepping onto the court and giving it a go builds self-belief. I always encourage kids to step outside their comfort zone, because that’s where growth happens.

It’s also a great way to make new friends and be part of a community. Tennis brings people together, and those friendships can last a lifetime.

Q: What advice would you give to a young child who’s nervous about trying tennis for the first time?

Anna: I want kids to know that tennis is for everyone—no matter their skill level. All they need to do is give it a try, have fun, and see where the journey takes them!

Join Anna on the Court – Sign Up Today!

From picking up a racket for the first time to winning three consecutive Australian Open titles, Anna McBride’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Now, she’s bringing her passion and experience to young players in Fife!

Her Junior Tennis sessions at Carnegie and Duloch Leisure Centres are all about learning new skills, building confidence, staying active, and—most importantly—having fun! Whether your child is trying tennis for the first time or already loves the sport, this is a fantastic chance to train with a champion in a friendly and supportive environment.

Class Details

All classes start March 2025!

Carnegie Leisure Centre:
Starts Sunday, 9th March
Junior Tennis P1 – P3: Sundays, 9:00am – 10:00am
Short Tennis P4 – P7: Sundays, 10:00am – 11:00am

Duloch Leisure Centre:
Starts Sunday, 17th March
Junior Tennis P1 – P3: Sundays, 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Short Tennis P4 – P7: Sundays, 1:00pm – 2:00pm

Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out! Sign up today and let your child experience tennis with a world champion—book now by calling or visiting reception!

Carnegie: 01383 602304
Duloch: 01383 602209

We are thrilled to announce the arrival of HYROX, a world-class fitness event, to Fife Sport and Leisure Trust. This marks an exciting new chapter for our community, bringing a versatile and competitive workout experience designed for all fitness levels. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or someone new to fitness challenges, HYROX offers something extraordinary!

What is HYROX?

HYROX is a global fitness race that combines functional fitness with endurance, offering a unique challenge that pushes boundaries while building strength and stamina. It involves eight rounds of 1 km runs, each followed by a functional workout, all designed to test performance, resilience, and teamwork.

Why HYROX at Fife Sport and Leisure Trust?

Our affiliation with HYROX reinforces our commitment to providing top-tier fitness opportunities for our community. Here’s what we are excited to bring to you with the introduction of HYROX:

1. Comprehensive Workout Regimen: The 8 x 1km run combined with exercises like lunges, sled pushes, rowing, and wall balls ensures a full-body workout. It challenges your endurance, strength, and speed, making it a powerful all-in-one fitness solution.
2. Welcoming Community Atmosphere: HYROX events are designed for everyone globally. Whether you’re participating for the competition or the camaraderie, you’ll find a supportive and inclusive environment to thrive in.
3. Trackable Progress: With specific fitness benchmarks, you can easily track improvements in speed, strength, and agility, allowing for measurable progress in your fitness journey.
4. Motivation and Fun: Competing in such an energetic, dynamic environment keeps fitness fun and engaging. It provides an exciting goal to train for!
5. Expert Instruction: Receive personalised training plans tailored to meet your fitness goals.
6. Safety First: Learn techniques that prioritise your safety while maximising performance.
7. Inspirational Leadership: Our instructors aim to inspire, pushing you to achieve personal bests you never thought possible!
8. Member Benefits of Being a HYROX Affiliate Early Access to Global Competitions: Engage with a worldwide community and participate in international events.
9. Cutting-Edge Training Techniques: Stay ahead with innovative training methods brought to you through our HYROX partnership.
10. Enhanced Community Impact: Boost local health and fitness initiatives, attracting diverse fitness enthusiasts to take part in a new challenge.

Join the HYROX Movement – Coming to Carnegie Leisure Centre early 2025

We invite you to embark on this invigorating journey with us. Experience the thrill and benefits of HYROX at Fife Sport and Leisure Trust. Whether you’re aiming to compete, improve fitness, or simply have fun, our first HYROX ZONE in Carnegie Leisure Centre opens the door to endless possibilities.

Follow the link to sign up to receive the latest updates, event details, and registration info. Go to: Official HYROX affiliate! – Fife Sports and Leisure Trust

Fife Sport and Leisure Trust is pleased to announce the opening of two new fitness spaces at Carnegie Leisure Centre on Monday, 25th November, adding to the venue’s incredible new main studio that opened earlier this year. The new Cycle Studio and Mind and Body Studio will be celebrated with a full day of activities, giving attendees the opportunity to explore the facilities and try sessions suited to a wide range of fitness goals.

Members and the general public are invited to attend the launch, with classes included for Club members, and pay-as-you-go options for non-members. Guests will also be able to tour the studios and view the high-quality equipment and unique features up close.

The Cycle Studio offers a fresh, engaging cycling experience, complete with dynamic lighting, a high-quality sound system, and MYZONE technology for tracking and enhancing performance. The studio is fitted with class-leading Keiser M3i bikes and will offer Les Mills cycling programmes, including Sprint and RPM, in both live and virtual formats along with regular cycle classes, allowing participants to find a session that fits their schedule and fitness level.

The Mind and Body Studio, also opening on 25th November, caters to those looking for a balanced, holistic approach to fitness. Classes such as Yoga, Pilates, Meditation, Tai Chi, and Bodybalance provide a welcoming environment for both physical and mental wellbeing.

Evelyn Crichton, Health and Wellbeing Coordinator at Fife Sport and Leisure Trust, said: “We’re thrilled to bring these new studios to Carnegie Leisure Centre. We look forward to welcoming everyone on launch day to try out classes and experience the benefits these spaces have to offer for their fitness journey.”

This opening is part of a larger initiative by Fife Sport and Leisure Trust to enhance its facilities. In December, the gym area at Carnegie Leisure Centre will receive a refresh with updated lighting, new flooring. Fife Sport and Leisure Trust is now an official HYROX affiliate and will be launching a HYROX Zone at Carnegie Leisure Centre in early January 2025. This affiliation allows the Trust to bring HYROX’s high-energy fitness challenges and training to Fife, appealing to both current members and new fitness enthusiasts looking for challenging training options.

Paul Burke, Commercial and Business Development Manager at Fife Sport and Leisure Trust, added: “The new studios reflect our dedication to creating inclusive and modern spaces that support and motivate our members. From the high-energy cycle classes to the restorative Mind and Body sessions, there’s something for everyone. This expansion at Carnegie Leisure Centre is part of a wider investment into Fife Sport and Leisure Trust’s facilities, as we continue to enhance and upgrade our offerings. We are committed to innovation and quality across our sites, ensuring that our members have access to dynamic environments that support their health and fitness goals.”

Spaces for launch day classes on 25th November are limited and will be available to book up to 8 days in advance. To reserve a spot, learn more about the studios, or explore membership options, visit the Fife Sport and Leisure Trust website at Carnegie Leisure Centre – Fife Sports and Leisure Trust.

For more information about the HYROX Carnegie Club and Circuit Training Zone, please visit: Official HYROX affiliate! – Fife Sports and Leisure Trust