“It’s such a great advantage to have Leanne with me as she knows my strengths and weaknesses. I feel so much fitter not just physically but mentally too”
I am grateful to you and the NHS for the opportunity I had and am still benefiting from.
I fully recommend the GP referral exercise scheme I undertook in the Autumn at Westlands gym.
I had previously enjoyed the Aspire gym programme in Yeovil hospital offered to me after my stroke in October 2023. When that finished I missed both the discipline of attending a weekly session and the camaraderie of working out in the company of others under the watchful eye of trained and helpful staff.
I clearly benefited physically with the weight loss it brought me, and the marked reduction in my blood pressure at the end of the programme. But it also was helpful psychologically as I felt much more optimistic about my continued recovery and my future life.
I had never been into a gym in my life before the challenge that a stroke brings. Now, I wouldn't be without one!
As one of your “beginners” at over 75, I have personally moved forward to achieve a long-held ambition to explore a hillfort in Dorchester! I couldn’t have achieved 5K over the top without my Nordic poles, and your well-remembered instructions!
It is due to your professionalism and personal ability to instil confidence and assurance that beginners need to get out and about and back on the road again!
“It’s a lovely environment. The classes are fun and not competitive; I feel I can go at my own pace and I really enjoy the social side of the scheme too”
I first attended Wivey Gym on referral from my GP just to help with BP/glucose control and general fitness. It has done so much more for me than I could ever have expected and I am grateful to Mandy for her caring, non-judgemental, professional approach. She has eased me, as gently as is possible into an activity I never in a million years would have thought I could find enjoyable! I have now finished my GP referral period and joined the Gym! I love it and look forward to each visit. Thank you, Mandy. You're a star.
"I'd never been to a gym before, in my life, and was really nervous, but the staff were brilliant! Really welcoming, friendly and helpful, I didn't feel like a fish out of water one bit."
I started the ProActive Somerset scheme after living with constant pain a year after my hip replacement surgery. My physiotherapist recommended an exercise programme, and I was referred to Maxine at Frome Leisure Centre.
Maxine created a personalised exercise programme for me and has been friendly, helpful, and incredibly supportive throughout. After three months of going to the gym around twice a week, I'm off all my painkillers and am much more mobile. The programme has made a huge difference to both my physical health and my mental wellbeing.
Never in a million years did I ever think I would join a gym, but now, at the end of my referral, I have become a fully paid up member and am looking forward to a long relationship with Wivey Gym and staff. Best thing I ever did!
I would also like to thank you and the team for all of the support, motivation and assistance you have offered me both pre and post my knee surgery and throughout my recovery. You offer a wonderful service and it really has assisted me in my rehabilitation. I don't think I would be in the position I am 2 years on without your assistance. It really has been invaluable.
"Well, what can I say! The referral course has been amazing for me, I not only feel more mobile but I feel so much better in myself too. This is definitely thanks to the wonderful staff, they are excellent."
Having now finished my 12-week G.P. referral, I am more than happy to sign in for a full membership. I was very wary of the whole gym "routine", but feel much better for it, with no pressure. A well-run local Gym and a warm welcome from Mand. Very relieved to see all ages and conditions equally catered for. I can vouch you will feel so much better as do I. Steve.
"...The girls are fantastic, very professional and caring. Making sure we are feeling fine after each routine. We recommend the gym to anybody and will continue to come after our 12 week period. It’s also something we can continue to do together after..."
Slowly through the 12 weeks, we have incorporated new exercises
Ian's goal was to get back on the treadmill and after increasing his strength and balance through his specialised programme, he is now using the treadmill
Ian has given full effort to the scheme being very consistent and I am looking forward to see what we can achieve in the next 12 weeks!
Ian says he has enjoyed the scheme and is happily going on the treadmill and progressing on all other exercises.
Well done Ian
Nordic walking helps me both physically and mentally – moving forward after cancer treatment – and it's become the highlight of my week!
I can honestly say, you are giving me hope and a good level of fitness back – despite previous fatigue – now I am even more determined to be active!
"I have never liked the gym but having Charlene there to motivate me and tell me what to do in the referral sessions and with a personalised tailored plan has motivated me to come and work towards my goals. The scheme is fantastic!
