COWDENBEATH supporters are enjoying a FFIT and healthy 2015 – thanks to the roll-out of a healthy lifestyle and training programme led by The SPFL Trust and now backed by famous faces Archie MacPherson and Alan Rough.

The Football Fans in Training programme (FFIT) – which helps supporters feel better and live a healthier lifestyle by losing weight, taking more exercise and improving their diet – ran at 16 clubs last year and is now being delivered at an additional 10, including the Fife side.

The initiative, funded by the Scottish Government, is free for participants and is now running for the fourth consecutive season at Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) clubs. Those taking part in the 12-week programme can enjoy weekly training sessions at the home stadiums of the clubs they support, and enjoyable unique behind-the-scenes access. Since the project began, participants have collectively lost an incredible 7.5 tonnes in weight.

The latest phase of FFIT, which will reach 1200 people, including an estimated 12 fans at Cowdenbeath, was launched by legendary Scottish football commentator Archie MacPherson – the voice of a radio campaign to help attract participants – as well as former Scotland goalkeeper Alan Rough.

Archie MacPherson said, “Football Fans In Training is delivering exactly what football has always had the power to do – a strong link between club and community, for the betterment of the supporters – and it’s great to see Cowdenbeath involved in this. I’m proud to lend my voice to this superb programme which has already achieved amazing results, and I’m just as thrilled it has now been extended to run at 26 SPFL clubs across the country.

“I wish all Cowdenbeath participants every success with FFIT and look forward to hearing of many more successes in the future.” Clubs currently offering FFIT are Aberdeen, Albion Rovers, Annan Athletic, Brechin City, Celtic, Cowdenbeath, Dundee, Dundee United, Dunfermline Athletic, East Fife, Falkirk, Hamilton Accies, Hearts, Hibernian, Inverness CT, Kilmarnock, Montrose, Morton, Motherwell, Partick Thistle, Queen’s Park, Rangers, Ross County, St Johnstone, St Mirren and Stenhousemuir.

Tom Ewing, the Cowdenbeath director with responsibility for the programme said, “We are delighted to be part of the Scottish Football Fans in Training programme helping local men get fit and develop a healthy lifestyle.

“We are currently recruiting the next intake to begin the programme in May so if anyone wants to join the next Cowden FFIT and get in shape for the summer holidays, register with the Club via the SPFL Trust website.” Billy Singh, General Manager of the SPFL Trust, which worked in partnership with clubs to encourage their involvement in the programme, said, “FFIT has gone from strength to strength since it kicked-off and it is great that more clubs are getting involved.” Neil Doncaster, SPFL Chief Executive, said, “Football Fans In Training is making a powerful and positive impact on supporters of clubs throughout Scotland and all 26 clubs now offering the programme can be very proud of the difference they are making.” Archie McPherson (left) and former Scotland goalkeeper, Alan Rough, are on hand to promote the SPFL Trust’s Football Fans in Training programme for Cowden fans.