THE county’s National Exercise Referral Scheme celebrated its 10th birthday on Tuesday 20th March.
Since its beginnings in 2008 the Public Health Wales and Welsh Assembly-funded programme has helped more than 10,000 people in the county revitalise their health through gentle exercise and opportunities to socialise with others.
Existing and previous participants marked the occasion at Chepstow Leisure Centre on Thursday 8th March. Over the years the scheme has cemented many friendships and has even sparked a marriage!
The scheme works with people aged 17 years and over who have, or are at risk of developing a chronic disease, and takes place in Monmouthshire’s four leisure centres. In the last year, 61 per cent of people referred who began the course completed the 16-week programme. At the end of the programme participants are encouraged to continue exercising at their local leisure centre in Fit4Life exercise classes or swimming and walking groups.
While gentle exercise aids weight loss and is vital to rehabilitation following knee or hip surgery, a crucial aspect of the programme to ensure healthy well-being is friendship and laughter. All staff guarantee correct and appropriate exercise but a key part of their role is ensuring those who take part are both mentally and physically well.
James Cook, Monmouthshire’s National Exercise Referral Scheme Coordinator said: “I am so proud that we have helped so many people become fit, active and make new friendships. Social isolation is debilitating and the classes we provide help to prevent this. It is wonderful to see so many people continue to attend their local leisure centres and join in with the Fit for Life classes. Our members are an inspiration and have changed their lives by attending our programme.”
Residents inspired to get fit and active can join Mon Leisure today and save up to 25 per cent taking advantage of the council’s latest offer. For more information visit