Keep fit with the Southern Trust

Participants of the Southern Trust Fit 4 U Project have been trying out a range of group exercise and multi-sports sessions across the Southern Area.

Sessions have included chair based exercises, boxercise and inclusive sports such as boccia, kurling, table top games and adapted volleyball and badminton.

Rhonda Richardson, Fit 4 U Co-ordinator, Southern Trust, explained: “Exercises and sports are adapted and tailored to suit the needs of participants.

“All activities can be practiced from seated position and seek to promote positive physical, mental and social health.

“Activities benefit co-ordination, muscle strength, confidence, self-esteem and promote communication and teamwork.”

Christine Weir, a participant in the Fit 4 U Project, found it very beneficial.

She said: “I enjoy all of the activities in Fit 4 U and feel it has benefited me in many ways.

“I am able to socialise with individuals and meet new participants within the project.

“Fit 4 U has helped me with my condition (Multiple Sclerosis) as I am using muscles whilst staying active.”

The Fit 4 U Project aims to empower people with physical/sensory disabilities to improve their health and wellbeing through participation in a range of innovative day time physical activity and leisure opportunities.

Fit 4 U activities are available across the Southern area at Dungannon, Armagh, Craigavon, Banbridge and Newry & Mourne Leisure Centres.

The Fit 4 U Project is funded by the Public Health Agency and led by the Southern Health and Social Care Trust in partnership with other organisations, including the local Council authorities and Sport NI funded Everybody Active coaches.

Fit 4 U service, which operates via referral, is available to adults (aged 18 years plus) who have a physical and/or sensory disability and live in the Southern Trust area. The service is also available to adults (aged 18 years plus) who have a learning disability and live in the Southern Trust area.

If you would like to find out more about the activities available, please contact Rhonda Richardson, Fit 4 U Co-ordinator, on telephone 028 3741 2129 or email [email protected]. Further information is also available online at www.southerntrust.hscni.net,