Physical activity has a key part in improving health and well being.  It helps to prevent coronary heart disease, stroke and some forms of cancer - our countries leading killers.  It can also reduce the risk of developing hypertension, diabetes, overweight and obesity.

In Torbay the G.P. Referral scheme has been set up to increase the number of adults participating in regular moderate intensity exercise or activity as part of a planned preventative and/or rehabilitation programme, as a prescribed treatment from their local G.P.

Who are Fitness in Torbay?

All of the exercise professionals who work on the Fitness in Torbay scheme have been trained to a nationally recognised standard. Their education may include degrees in Exercise and Sports Sciences, Professional qualifications in Gym and group instruction, Referred populations (ability to exercise people with various medical conditions), Cardiac Rehabilitation (ability to exercise people who have had cardiac surgery), amongst others. We are not doctors or physiotherapists but we have had some training in medical conditions and common medications. Therefore we are aware of the benefits of exercise to your health and understand how your medications may affect your ability to exercise.

Do you want to be come more active, more often and have fun, meet new people, discover your local environment, try something new or improve your health?

Physical activity has been proven to have a positive effect on health and fitness. In addition there is evidence to show that physical activity can help reverse or have a significant impact on medical conditions or ailments that you may suffer from. This can lead to reduction in medication, fewer visits to the doctor, and a huge improvement in your well being.

We have helped many people to reduce their stress levels (often something carers can find beneficial), to boost their confidence (helps to make new friends), lose weight (reducing chances of heart disease and many other medical conditions, control their blood sugar levels (improving their diabetes care), to be able to move more easily around the house and to walk further (boosting energy levels), and to manage joint pains (returning people to work).

Here is a brief explanation of some of the activities on offer through fitness in Torbay:

Fit Bay

10 week fully supervised gym based programme whereby a fully trained exercise professional will assess and agree with you a plan of action around your needs. The cost to you is £2.50 for initial 1 to 1, and then £1.50 per session. (This is a twice weekly commitment from you, with optional education sessions if you wish). Available at Barton Surgery Torquay, English Riviera centre, Paignton Community & Sports College Borough Rd, Torbay Leisure Centre, Brixham Community College.

Fit Bay Education

For people who wish to control their weight, require support in making lifestyle behaviour changes, learn how to monitor your own activity levels, and hear about special offers or venues for activities.

Baywalks

Lead walks by a trained volunteer of between 1-3 miles, for those people who wish to become a little more mobile, not for ramblers or long distance hikers. Very social groups of all ages. Available all over Torbay. Cost is free.

Bayrides

Supervised coaching in order to help people to ride a bike or improve confidence of riding bikes. Aimed to boost confidence and skills, allowing you to leave the car at home for those shorter journeys. Available summer time only at Paignton Community & Sports College Borough Rd. Cost is free.

Bay Water Sessions

10 weeks of supervised water based mobility exercises, ideally suited for those with joint pains, and mobility problems. Available at English Riviera Centre. (twice a week commitment)

For more information you can call the Community Fitness Co-ordinator’s on 01803 321867

Look out next time for simple tips on how to become more active and home based exercises.

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