New free physical activity sessions for people living with health conditions launching in September
EHDC is working with Everyone Active in providing free physical activity courses for people with diabetes and free health and wellbeing opportunities for those who could benefit from a more active lifestyle.
Exercise referral schemes in East Hampshire
Two new free physical activity programmes start soon
Kicking-off in early September, East Hampshire residents who need it most can get more active with two new fantastic, free schemes at leisure centres across the district. Both courses, provided by Everyone Active, in partnership with East Hampshire District Council, have been designed to help people get back on their feet, or prevent their condition from worsening.
Diabetes exercise course
Everyone Active is running a 12-week physical activity programme for individuals diagnosed with type-2 diabetes, or pre-diabetes. The programme is free to attend and is aimed at anyone who would like to be more active but who find the idea of exercising daunting.
The first session starts at the Taro Leisure Centre, Petersfield on Monday 9 September at 9.30am,
and also at Whitehill & Bordon Leisure Centre starting on Friday 13 September.
For more information or to book on, please contact RobbieCampbell@everyoneactive.com.
East Hampshire residents who have previously attended the diabetes programme told us:
"My wife and I have gained enormously from your advice, for the first time in years we both feel we are making progress in cutting down our carbs and sugar intake"
Health & wellbeing programme
The East Hampshire Health & Wellbeing Programme is a six month scheme which aims to improve peoples' health and wellbeing by encouraging long-term participation in physical activity.
Targeting people who suffer from, or are at risk of developing, chronic medical conditions, it provides support to patients whose health could benefit from a more active lifestyle.
Discounts to access the service are available, and further support is also accessible for certain individuals in receipt of universal credit or other qualifying benefits (subject to terms and conditions).
You can be referred onto this service by your GP, a health professional, or you can self-refer by completing the form found on Everyone Active's website.
East Hampshire residents, Keith (63) and partner Sue (66) said:
“The programme was recommended to us by a social prescriber. Keith had never been to a gym before, so we were concerned how he was going to be because he had not been very well after having a stroke. To our surprise we loved it.
"It's been hard at times and we've had stops and starts but we feel much much better mentally, and physically we feel fitter.
"We also got involved with walking football as a new sport which we love and Keith has really improved his coordination and mental ability post stroke with it.”
People interested in taking part can sign up and book online, or you can ask your GP or health care professional today for a referral.
East Hampshire Health & Wellbeing programme
Councillor Adeel Shah, EHDC portfolio holder for Community Development and Engagement, said:
“These schemes are a great way for people living with health conditions to access high-quality supervised exercise programmes.
They provide support, advice and encouragement which guides individuals through their own personal exercise plan depending upon their medical conditions and abilities.
It's ideal for people who would like to improve their health and wellbeing, do a bit more exercise and discover the benefits that regular exercise has to offer.”