The Armed Forces Social Management Institute (Igesa)
Created in 1966 by General de Gaulle to unify social actions for the civilian and military members of the Ministry of Defence, Igesa has been a partner of the armed forces’ free time for more than fifty years.
Aware that physical fitness is essential for combat and that regular activity is also a source of social cohesion, commitment and self-confidence, the institution facilitates and encourages the practice of sport (leisure and competition) all year round.
Initiation, training, improvement, competitions
To allow all members of the defence community to enjoy moments of relaxation while maintaining their physical condition, Igesa offers outdoor and indoor fitness areas in its establishments, as well as health trails with a variety of sports facilities for all levels. Five years ago, the Armed Foces Social Management Institute joined forces with the Federation of defence (FCD) clubs to promote and facilitate cultural and sporting activities within the Defence community by creating the "FCD presents" program. Tennis, theatre, fencing, judo, fitness, self-defence, kick-boxing... each season, qualified instructors with FCD licences offer free introductory courses in a variety of disciplines to holidaymakers at the Armed Forces Social Management Institute centres. Finally, as competition is an essential means of maintaining good physical condition and also encourages exchanges and personal development. The Armed Forces Social Management Institute offers competitors, both individuals and groups, tailor-made packages to suit their wishes and aspirations.
Official partner of the French Military Teams
For several years now, the National Defence Sports Center (CNSD) has been able to rely on the many Igesa structures, infrastructures and services located throughout France to organise training courses, competitions and joint national or international military championships. Athletes and support teams also benefit from preferential rates on reception, accommodation and catering services provided by the institution. In 2023, Igesa stepped up its commitment to military sport by becoming an official partner of the French Military Teams. This sponsoring got off to a flying start with the amazing victory of the French military team at the 2023 Military Rugby World Championship , which took place in Brittany from 16th August to 10th September. Alongside the military authorities and other official partners, Igesa supported the French rugby team, who won the final against Fiji, holders of the title. During the three weeks of the Championship, Igesa was present at the various competition venues and had the pleasure of providing the players with sports equipment.
A partner in the reconstruction of the wounded
Driven by the duty to assist the men and women of the defence community, both physically and mentally wounded and to support them in their rehabilitation and social and professional reintegration, the institution is one of the main partners of the "Saling to rebuild yourself" association. Its work enables war veterans, widows and orphans to sail in the Mediterranean and Brittany. These courses at sea contribute effectively to the functional rehabilitation of the wounded to their physical and psychological reconstruction. The association was set up in 2014 by civilian and military volunteers thanks to the initiative of Christophe Combi, a former Army colonel and current Igesa Human Resources Director. Adapted for access by people with reduced mobility, the 15 meter mono-hull welcomes members of the Athos houses, structures dedicated since 2021 to psychologically wounded and deployed by Igesa. Sport plays an essential part in the support provided by the Athos houses. It is a wonderful way to rediscover the body, helping people to surpass themselves and encouring social links.
Visit the Igesa websiteSee the website