Help to get fit: exercise referral scheme
What is exercise referral?
Exercise referral is a 10 week programme of physical activity which gives you the opportunity to try some regular physical activity to help improve your health and well-being.
First, you'll attend a fitness assessment. Then you'll be given a tailored exercise programme which suits your level of fitness.
The scheme is aimed at people aged over 16 who are not used to physical activity and who have certain medical conditions.
Download exercise referral fact sheet (size 926kb)
How do I get a place on the scheme?
All referrals to the scheme must be made by your doctor or a health care professional. They will send us your details and you should contact us to arrange your fitness assessment.
What does it cost?
The initial fitness assessment costs £19.60. The follow-up is free of charge.
At the assessment you will be issued with a membership card. The card is used to book sessions. The exercise and activity classes cost £20.50 for 5 sessions or £11.50 if you are a senior citizen.
You may be exempt from all charges if you were previously entitled to HIE before Income Support was introduced or if you receive disability or invalidity benefit.
Please note that all prices are subject to change.
Is there anything I need to do before my assessment?
In the 2 hours immediately before your appointment, you should avoid:
- exercising
- eating
- smoking
- drinking tea, coffee or alcohol
Can I still attend my assessment if I am ill?
If you have a cold / flu or are recovering from a virus, then you should cancel your appointment and rebook it once you are well again.
How long will my assessment be?
The appointment lasts approximately 1 hour. You should report to the reception desk at Fort Regent and the assessor will come and meet you.
What should I wear to my assessment?
You should wear comfortable clothes and shoes eg. tracksuit or loose-fitting clothing. Women should avoid all-in-one undergarments, leotards or high heels.
Is there anything I need to bring with me to my assessment?
It is important that you bring:
- a list of your medications
- an emergency contact number
- GTN spray if you require one (for angina)
- a sugary snack or drink if you have diabetes
- reading glasses if you need them
- your referral form
What happens after my assessment?
After you have completed your assessment the assessor will explain the results and recommend a suitable level of exercise specifically for you.
You will then be shown the facilities at the sport centre and will be invited to attend 10 weeks of exercise sessions at the centre closest to you.
Where and when do the exercise sessions take place?
There are regular sessions available throughout the week at both Fort Regent, Springfield stadium and Les Quennevais sports centres. All sessions are supervised by medically trained fitness instructors and you will be encouraged to work at your own pace.
What should I wear for the sessions?
You should wear loose clothing (eg trousers, tracksuit, jumper, sweatshirt, t-shirt) and comfortable flat shoes.
What happens at the end of the 10 weeks?
At the end of 10 weeks you will be invited to have another fitness assessment (free of charge) to discuss your progress. Details will be sent to the person who referred you.
After successful completion of the scheme you may continue attending the tutor-led exercise referral classes for a further 2 months or purchase an active card at a reduced rate.