VR Leisure’s exercise and wellbeing GP gym referral scheme is the ideal way for people with existing health conditions, both physical and mental, to increase physical activity levels and improve their health. The governments leading health experts recommend that we all complete and maintain at minimum, half an hour of physical activity, at least five times a week. Research has proven, people who exercise regularly have a lower risk of developing many long-term (chronic) conditions, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and some cancers. Furthermore, research shows that physical activity can also boost self-esteem, mood, sleep quality and energy, as well as reducing your risk of stress, depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
At VR Leisure, we have dedicated exercise and wellbeing GP gym referral trainers that have a range of skills and specialities. Our trainers can build workout programmes tailored to individuals with a multitude of health conditions. Depending on your preferences, you can choose to do the 30 minutes of activity at our gym or at home, using one of our home workout videos, it’s up to you.
Which health conditions does the GP gym referral programme cover?
The Exercise Referral programme covers a huge variety of health conditions. These include asthma, arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity, as well as depression, anxiety, osteoporosis and plenty of other conditions.
It is medically proven that people who do regular physical activity have:
- up to a 35% lower risk of coronary heart disease and stroke
- up to a 50% lower risk of type 2 diabetes
- up to a 50% lower risk of colon cancer
- up to a 20% lower risk of breast cancer
- a 30% lower risk of early death
- up to an 83% lower risk of osteoarthritis
- up to a 68% lower risk of hip fracture
- a 30% lower risk of falls (among older adults)
- up to a 30% lower risk of depression
- up to a 30% lower risk of dementia
(https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/exercise-health-benefits/)
Enjoyable exercise:
Our highly trained GP qualified fitness instructors will listen to your individual needs and create a bespoke exercise plan with physical activities for you to choose from. Your dedicated trainer will encourage beneficial lifestyle changes, encourage you to start an appropriate exercise programme, advise and guide you on how to exercise safely and more importantly, inspire you to have fun whilst doing it.
Coronavirus has, of course, forced us all to make some significant adjustments to the way we lead our lives. Especially for those of you who suffer from existing health conditions. If, therefore, you are shielding, or simply do not feel safe or comfortable coming to our gym for Exercise Referral sessions just yet, we completely understand. We do, however, have an extensive programme of pre-recorded workout videos that you can complete yourself at home. They are easy to follow, and our highly trained instructors walk you step by step through every exercise.
If you would like to give our pre-recorded workout videos a go at home, check out the social media channels. Let us know what you think!
What we do?
Our fully qualified exercise referral specialist works in tandem with yourself and your GP to create a bespoke exercise and nutrition plan to suit and assist your medical condition and physical ability. We provide support, advice and encouragement through your personal PT and our dedicated team. In turn, this will, introduce you to new friends, help improve your energy, physical activity levels and over all wellbeing. All you require is comfortable clothing, training shoes and a bottle of water!
How can I join the exercise referral scheme?
To begin your free GP exercise referral membership, simply speak to your GP, practise nurse of physiotherapist. If eligible, you will be referred directly to us at VR Leisure. Your GP/Practice Nurse/Physiotherapist will confirm whether you fit the referral inclusion criteria. If successful, participants are required to attend at least two sessions weekly.
Interested? Don’t hesitate either visit your GP, practise nurse of physiotherapist now to get started or visit our website/ social channels to learn more about VR Leisure, the team and what we have on offer.