Wanganui Rugby Union gets behind Men's Health Month

Wanganui Rugby representative Simon Dibben encourages men to consider their health and what matters to them. Photo/ supplied

Wanganui Rugby Union (WRU) players are speaking up about men's health and will be hosting a "skills and drills" session on Sunday at Cooks Gardens.

The union are showing their support for the Men's Health Month Whanganui campaign, organised by Tane Hauora Collaborative, and are one of many events taking place throughout June.

WRU players Peter Rowe, Cole Baldwin and Simon Dibben shared their thoughts on the local theme "What Matters To You" in a campaign video posted online.

Mr Dibben said in the video that men in general tend to put pain off and don't talk about it.

"It's the kiwi way, but we need to open up and we need to talk about it,"

"Family is everything for me and if i didn't have their support and encouragement it'd be really hard. Being healthy and fit and putting my best foot forward matters to me, you've just got to enjoy life," Mr Dibben said.

WRU chief executive officer Bridget Belsham said the rugby team relied on having optimal health in order to perform their best for the province.

"It is important for us to actively promote Men's Health Month across our community and to provide an opportunity for men and their families to see our boys supporting this important health issue," Ms Belsham said.

The WRU will be hosting a fun filled afternoon on Sunday from 1pm and 3pm at Cooks Gardens. It is a free event open to the public.

Some of The Butcher Boys who will be running a number of rugby related activities "to put attendees through their paces."

Follow this link to view the Wanganui Rugby Union Men's Health campaign video: