Ribble Valley health lifestyle team take heart in getting pulses racing

Published: 29th November 2024

And as national Men's Health Awareness Month comes to an end, the work the team does with men and women of all health backgrounds is increasingly important.

The team supports the health and well-being of local communities and offers a wide range of tailored activities and services to guide people to a healthier, more active lifestyle.

One of the many classes the team provides is called functional fitness.

The class, which is held weekly at Oakhill leisure complex in Whalley, is set out as circuit exercise so it can be adapted for people depending on their ability.

In all cases, whatever the class or activity, participants are initially given a health assessment to ensure it is suitable for their needs. If not, clients are signposted to other healthy lifestyle classes or other organisations that will better suit their requirements.

Health and fitness development officer Tracy Balko said: "All our classes are friendly and welcoming and the people taking part in them really support each other.

"Our sessions are more targeted to people who are new to exercise and need some help to guide them in the right direction, or people who have a medical or health condition that may need some additional support.

"The team has a wealth of expertise and experience so people can be reassured they are in safe hands!"

One participant Brian said: "I've been going to Up and Active for a number of years and I've enjoyed both and physical and mental health benefits it's given me."

Classes include balance and posture stability, functional fitness, cardiac rehabilitation, Aqua for Health, and weight management and are available at locations across the borough. The team also lead regular health walks from different starting points in the Ribble Valley.

Being more active and managing weight has many physical benefits, but the well-being benefits are just as important. Even just getting out of the house and moving a bit more can have great benefits for mental health and well-being.

You can do this on your own, but people find the social aspects of joining in a class or a group really helpful and motivational because of the mutual support they offer.

If you are interested in becoming more active or want to find out more about the healthy lifestyles team and its services, email [email protected] or [email protected]
Or phone 01200 414586 or search Up and Active Ribble Valley on Facebook.

Caption: Health and fitness development officer Tracy Balko (front) leading a class at Oakhill.

Ends

Ref: NR291124

Date: 29th November 2024.

Further details for the press are available from Ribble Valley Borough Council's communications unit on 01200 414483 or 07438 162349.