Since May 2007, RCPSG has been working in partnership with both Celtic and Rangers Football Clubs to promote and deliver a healthier living approach to male football fans in Glasgow via a health programme at both Celtic Park and Ibrox.

The format of the programme is simple. For ten consecutive weeks, 20 male fans from the Glasgow area attend both football clubs on a Friday afternoon for two hours. During these sessions, an expert clinician will speak with the men regarding a health issue, such as diet, cardiovascular health or diabetes which is then supported by a physical training session with club coaching staff to help improve the overall physical fitness of the participants.

As the growth of obesity becomes a greater problem for our health boards, this programme is helping to tackle the two major factors associated with this growth – lack of physical activity and poor diet. By educating the participants about their choices and encouraging them to adopt a healthier lifestyle, we are succeeding in reducing the risk of these men having a heart attack or stroke as well as improving their day-to-day health.

Since forming this innovative partnership with Celtic and Rangers, over 150 men have passed through the programme and everyone has seen this to have a positive impact on their attitude, behaviour and ultimately their lifestyle.

This is a unique project which has exceeded the expectations of the College, the football clubs and the clinicians involved due to the dedication and enthusiasm shown by the participants. These men have chosen to make a change and with the support of their favourite football club, they have succeeded.

For an overview of the programme to date, please download the Project Presentation.

For further information on the Men's Health Programme please contact Lynsey Joyce, Special Projects Manager on (t) +44 (0)141 227 3216 or (e) lynsey.joyce@rcpsg.ac.uk.