A new exercise initiative in Galway, for people of all ages and abilities, ‘Exercise4Health’ offers the ideal opportunity to get fit for the summer!
‘Exercise4Health’ is a new programme developed as a collaboration between NUI Galway, local heart and stroke charity Croí and the Kingfisher Fitness Club and it’s the perfect way to engage in regular physical activity, but best of all, it’s delivered in a fun, enjoyable and highly motivated environment where people of all abilities (many with medical conditions) can come together and exercise.
“To date, over 100 people have been through the programme and it’s having hugely positive results on cardiovascular health. Most people seem to really enjoy the fact that they are part of a group exercising together at their own pace.
“Many now view the course as part of their everyday week and enjoy coming to the weekly sessions. This new initiative is proving very popular and the sense of community engagement in improving cardiovascular health is huge,” says Croi’s Specialist Physiotherapist, Denise Dunne
Being physically active and engaging in regular physical activity improves fitness and overall general health. It also prevents and helps control a multitude of health problems, and is especially, good for mental health, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and obesity.
Exercise4Health provides a locally accessible opportunity for those with diabetes, heart disease, pulmonary disease; those recovering from stroke or cancer or those with breathing difficulties or other long-term health conditions, to commence a safe and beneficial exercise programme.
This rolling exercise programme is specially designed to suit all levels of current fitness. Prior to enrolling in the programme, participants will be provided with a fitness assessment to ascertain their fitness level. Emphasis is placed on developing an individually tailored programme that will suit all levels of ability.
Professor Terry Smith, Professor of Biomedical Engineering Science at NUI Galway said, “This exciting new partnership between NUI Galway, Croí and the Kingfisher Fitness Club aims to provide a community-based exercise initiative which will significantly help to improve the health and wellbeing of people suffering from a range of chronic illnesses.
“The benefits are not just improved physical health, meeting other participants and the fitness team at the Kingfisher Club also provides a great social outlet which has led many of the participants to seek out activities in their own communities that focus on improving overall health and wellbeing”
The Exercise4Health programme takes place in the Kingfisher Fitness Club and Dangan Hall at NUI Galway from 12pm-1pm every Thursday.
■ For further information or to book a place call Croí on (091) 544310.
The post New initiative aims to get people in shape for the Summer appeared first on Connacht Tribune - Galway City Tribune.