Recovering stroke patients in the Newark area can benefit from a 12-week course combining gentle exercise and information starting at The Grove Leisure Centre in Balderton on 6th March.
The ‘Strokeability’ course provided by Newark and Sherwood District Council in partnership with Nottinghamshire County Council is specifically designed to aid the recovery of anyone who has had a stroke.
Newark and Sherwood Council’s Active Lifestyles Officer James Wheat said: “Stroke is the third-largest cause of death in the UK after heart disease and cancer, accounting for more than 60,000 deaths a year, and strokes cause a greater range of disabilities than any other condition. The good news is that even moderate exercise can reduce the risk of stroke by up to 27%.”
The Grove course will be held every Thursday from 12-2pm with an exercise session led by qualified and experienced instructors, followed by a different speaker each week. Sessions cost £2 per person per week.
The course includes guidance on relaxation techniques and advice and information about local support services. Similar courses have been run at Southwell, Blidworth and Ollerton and have been very successful, said Mr Wheat: “Participants have the chance to work towards a healthier lifestyle, meet other people living with stroke and have some fun. So far more than 30 stroke survivors in the district have been helped to lead a healthier lifestyle and make further progress in their rehabilitation.
“To be eligible, you must have had a diagnosis of a stroke and have completed or almost completed your rehabilitation programme. Participants need to provide brief medical information so that we can make sure the exercises are suitable. We will also ask about any particular communication and/or mobility issues so that we can best meet their needs.”
Participants must be able to make their own way to the sessions as no transport is provided.
For more information or to register yourself or someone you know, contact James Wheat on 01636 655715 or email james.wheat @nsdc.info or write to him at Newark and Sherwood District Council, Leisure Services, Kelham Hall, Kelham, Newark NG23 5QX.