Take responsibility and change your life

Dec 12 2008

HEALTH and fitness are a major part of Janey Anderson’s life.

For she’s one of a four strong team who run the Activity for Health scheme in South Ayrshire.

The mum of two is a qualified fitness instructor and has helped scores of people exercise their way back to health.

The scheme is run by South Ayrshire Council in partnership with NHS Ayrshire and Arran and promotes an active lifestyle to prevent or improve health.

It was set up in 2002 and aims to encourage people at risk of having a heart problem to improve their health through exercise.

This includes people who are inactive, smoke, obese or overweight, diabetic, have a high cholesterol level, high blood pressure or who have mental health problems.

It also includes those who suffer from heart disease or whose family has a history of the problem and people with illnesses like arthritis, osteoporosis or back pain.

The team works directly with health professionals including GPs, nurses, physiotherapists, hospitals and clinics.

Janey explained: “We link in to the NHS and voluntary sector. Our clients range from secondary school pupils to pensioners. Our oldest is 93.

“Our clients are referred by health professionals. This can be anyone from a GP or practice nurse to a physio or community psychiatric nurse.”

And Janey insists that staff and other clients go all out to make sure that newcomers are given a warm welcome.

She said: “The initial consultation is really just an informal chat. We discuss the person’s medical history, their aims and objectives and work out which activities are most suitable.

“The classes are very friendly and newcomers are made to feel at home.”

Around 50 classes are run under the Activity for Health banner across South Ayrshire every week.

From aqua fit and aerobics to Tai Chi and low intensity classes, there’s something for everyone.

Classes are held at the three council run gyms in Ayr Citadel, Prestwick and Troon and at swimming pools in Ayr, Prestwick, Troon, Maybole and Girvan.

There are also Diamond classes for the over 60s in community centres across the county. These keep fit classes are designed to help prevent falls.

Janey added: “There really is something for everyone. Anyone who thinks that they may benefit should discuss it with their health professional and ask for a referral.

“We’ve had great results. Taking responsibility for your own health this way really can change your life.”