Archers in action. Pic: Sean Pollock

Hackney residents over the age of 50 are being offered the chance to sign up for a free place on a 12 week healthy lifestyle training programme as part of The New Age Games 2012 initiative.

Hackney’s action packed sports programme will start next week on January 23, with classes running from Monday to Saturday until April 9.

Local residents have the opportunity to take part in variety of 20 sports, including: short tennis, archery, aerobics, badminton, cycling, fencing, swimming, golf, and fitness classes such as Zumba and banghra.

Sports professionals who already train 300 individuals across Hackney leisure centres will coach the programme participants.

Classes will be held in seven sports and leisure centres in Hackney. Jogging and fitness training sessions will be offered at London Fields, Clissold and Shoreditch Park.

Dave Toombs, spokesperson for Hackney Council, said: “It is free because if they charged it would be a barrier for many people. We want to get as many people as possible to promote the Olympics, and have an active life after 50.

“We hope if people get used to following a healthy regime, they will keep this up after the 12 week programme finishes.”

To book your place, call 020 8356 4100.