The Vale of Glamorgan Council has unveiled a range of state-of-the-art exercise equipment that is to be used by residents who have been referred to the National Exercise Referral Scheme (NERS).
The NERS scheme helps people over the age of 16 who are inactive or who live with chronic diseases to engage with physical activity.
The new kit was secured by nearly £100,000 from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, and includes a number of resistance machines which are designed to help residents build up their strength over time.
NERS is delivered by the Vale of Glamorgan Council’s trained Exercise Referral Professionals through its network of leisure centres, and residents who qualify are referred to the scheme by their GP.
Craig Nichol, an Exercise Referral Professional based at Penarth Leisure Centre, said: “The clients on the NERS programme have seen improvements in both mental and physical areas of their lives. To feel stronger, be more mobile and have the ability to move with confidence is amazing.
“The new equipment that’s been installed has been a very positive addition to the programme and will help clients to live a healthy and active lifestyle. It allows us to monitor progress safely, and is a motivation for them to keep improving on a weekly basis too.”
Cllr Gwyn John, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Sport and Well-being, said: “The National Exercise Referral Scheme is a vital part of our commitment to improve the health and wellbeing of people across the Vale of Glamorgan.
“NERS is a powerful example of how physical activity can transform lives and help people to manage long-term conditions and enjoy life to the fullest. The scheme not only supports individuals to regain independence and improve their mobility, but also helps ease pressure on our health services by promoting healthier and happier communities.”
