Exercise Referral Schemes

Exercise referral schemes aim to improve an individual's health and wellbeing by offering physical activity and healthy eating opportunities. An individual may be assessed by a healthcare professional and referred to a physical activity provider or scheme due to a sedentary / inactive lifestyle impacting their health. Specific services will be selected to meet the individual's needs in order to improve their health.

Fitter Futures

Fitter Futures Warwickshire, co-ordinated by Nuneaton & Bedworth Leisure Trust, is responsible for the exercise referral schemes in Stratford-on-Avon District (and throughout the county) as commissioned by Public Health Warwickshire and Warwickshire County Council.

Fitter Futures receives referrals from healthcare professionals and will offer individuals one of the following three options:

• Weight Management on Referral
  • Individuals who require this service will receive a free 12-week dietary programme through Slimming World
• Family Weight Management
  • Offers a nine-week physical activity, eating and lifestyle programme to families with at least one child (4-12 years) who is overweight. Parents / carers can refer themselves and their child to this service.
• Physical Activity on Referral
  • This scheme offers a 12-week physical activity and healthy lifestyle support programme, which could include the opportunity to access leisure centres, community classes, or physical activity consultants

For further information on exercise referral, see the Fitter Futures website or speak to your GP. You can also get further details by emailing: fitterfutures@nbleisuretrust.org.

Recommended Physical Activity Guidelines

The NHS recommends that an adult (19-64 years) should complete 150 minutes of moderate physical activity a week - it is suggested this could be completed in 30 minute intervals, five times a week. Moderate intensity exercise could include activities such as brisk walking or cycling. It is also recommended to complete strength exercises on at least two days a week. Children (5-18 years) should complete 60 minutes of physical activity a day, including at least three days of exercises that strengthen muscle and bone.

Please visit NHS Live Well for further information about physical activity guidelines.

Benefits of Physical Activity

There are many physical, psychological and social benefits to exercise including:

• reducing the risk of type-2 diabetes, strokes, cancer and heart disease
• increasing self-esteem, mood and reducing stress