Community
Girls on the Go: a new wellness movement empowering women
8 months ago
Girls on the Go is not just a wellness club; it’s a movement dedicated to empowering women through fitness, friendship, and community.
Girls on the Go (GOTG) was founded by Steph Barney, Caitlin Lewing, and Martin Mach, a passionate group whose aim is to create a safe, welcoming, and empowering space for girls to pursue their running aspirations and combat loneliness.
The mission of Girls on the Go is clear: to make the UK a less lonely place for girls by fostering a supportive and inclusive community where women of all ages and backgrounds can come together, get active, and make new friends.
With locations in Liverpool and Birmingham, GOTG offers a variety of events and activities designed to cater to all interests and fitness levels.
Steph Barney, co-founder, said:
“We initially started as a running group, because there wasn’t really any dedicated to just women. Because it can be quite intimidating going for a run solo as a woman.
“We were listening to a lot of people who were telling us how hard it can be sometimes to make friends and socialise. So we decided to create Girls On The Go, as a means for women to be a part of a safe space, and also to create a sense of a community so that people don’t feel alone.”
From relaxing workshops like wine glass paintings and book club meet-ups to more active sessions like Pilates classes and Galentines ball socials, GOTG strives to provide something for everyone with a core focus on accessibility.
Whether it’s the first session or the hundredth, participants receive unwavering support, encouragement, and inclusion at Girls on the Go.
Steph said:
“We started hosting events too. We have a fashion show coming soon to the Liverpool Town Hall, that will comment on the future of fashion in the North.
“There’s been a lot of missed opportunities within their fashion industry, especially for people in the North of England. So it is going to shine a light on designers and creatives within that industry and and give them a chance.
“If we can’t use our platform for good and to help others out… then what’s the point?”
The group is completely free to join, and GOTG believes that everyone should have the chance to combat loneliness and make new friends, regardless of age.
They host various events including; strength training classes, yoga workshops, pilates workshops, dedicated reading clubs, social gatherings, and artistic activities like wine glass painting.
One of the highlights is the weekly runs, providing a fun and safe environment for women of all fitness levels to come together, improve their running skills, and build lasting connections.
Speaking about the quick success of Girls On The Go, Steph said:
“I don’t think any of us expected this reaction, it has been amazing.
“From my point of view, I didn’t realise how many women felt the same as me… It surprised me, and the rest of the team, how many people felt lonely and struggle make friends.
“It’s incredible to see the community keep on growing.”
The inclusive community welcomes women of all backgrounds, abilities, and fitness levels, whether they join with friends or come by themselves.
At Girls on the Go, different training programs, workshops, and events are offered to cater to beginners, intermediates, and those looking to push their limits.
The goal is to provide all the guidance and resources needed to achieve fitness goals while having fun and building friendships along the way.