
New exercise equipment has been unveiled at Penarth Leisure Centre for people who are inactive or live with chronic diseases.
Nearly £100,000 of UK Governmind funding was spent on the state-of-the-art kit, specificially for people involved in the National Exercise Referral Scheme (NERS)
It includes several resistance machines designed to help local residents build their strength over time.
Craig Nichol, an exercise referral professional based in Penarth, said: "The clients on the NERS programme have seen improvements in both mental and physical areas of their lives. To feel stronger, be more mobile and have the ability to move with confidence is amazing."
"The new equipment that’s been installed has been a very positive addition to the programme and will help clients to live a healthy and active lifestyle. It allows us to monitor progress safely, and is a motivation for them to keep improving on a weekly basis too."
NERS is delivered locally by a team of trained professionals from Vale of Glamorgan Council through its leisure centres - with residents who qualify being referred to the scheme by their GP.
Cllr Gwyn John, cabinet member for leisure, sport and wellbeing, added: "The National Exercise Referral Scheme is a vital part of our commitment to improve the health and wellbeing of people across the Vale of Glamorgan."
"NERS is a powerful example of how physical activity can transform lives and help people to manage long-term conditions and enjoy life to the fullest."
"The scheme not only supports individuals to regain independence and improve their mobility, but also helps ease pressure on our health services by promoting healthier and happier communities."