Active for health

Active for health is a GP exercise referral programme that enables health professionals to refer patients who would benefit from taking regular exercise. The programme is 12 weeks in length, with free body MOT checks at weeks one, six and 12.

The programme consists of a welcome consultation, where the following is carried out:    

1. A welcome questionnaire is completed to understand the client's medical and exercise background and their exercise goals and preferences.
2. A full health check is completed, which includes measures of BMI, body composition, waist circumference, waist to hip ratio, lung functionality and blood pressure.

After this each client will be provided with a 12 week individually tailored programme of exercise. The choice of exercise is varied, including swimming, gym exercise and group exercise classes.

Follow up health checks are carried out 6 weeks into the programme and on completion of the programme, at 12 weeks. The information collected is used to demonstrate improvements in the health measures and is sent to the referring health professional, for them to assess patient progress.

Who can take part?

To find out more about the criteria for inclusion and exclusion, please refer to the referral pathway document (PDF). Please note that we will forward anyone who is referred to us with history of heart disease or stable  angina onto HELP (Coventry's community based cardiac rehabilitation programme)

How does it help?

The benefits of regular exercise are well documented, including improved fitness levels, increased energy, improved strength, mobility and balance and the opportunity to meet new people or exercise with friends and family.

How do I join?

Visit your local GP or health professional to be referred.

Where is it running?

Coventry Sports Centre
Fairfax Street,
Coventry
CV1 5RY.

Foleshill Leisure Centre
Livingstone Road,
Foleshill,
Coventry,
CV6 5AR

Moathouse Leisure and Neighbourhood Centre
Winston Avenue
Coventry
CV2 1EA

How much does it cost?

There is no charge to the GP practice. The scheme is funded by Coventry City Council, Coventry PCT and the relevant leisure providers. 
 
However, the exercise sessions will cost the participant £2.50 each time. This cost includes the provision of an individually tailored exercise programme, provided by staff qualified to support patients with the health conditions listed in the inclusion criteria.

Is it safe?

All sessions are run by GP Exercise Referral Qualified exercise consultants. This qualification is accredited by the Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs).