Paul’s Story

The Physical Activity team worked with Paul to develop a personalised gym programme to help him build his strength and get fitter.

This tailored gym programme focused on enhancing his upper body cardiovascular fitness, resistance training and core exercises. Our team provided comprehensive guidance support to help Paul exercise safely.

This included optimal workout times, and critical advice about monitoring blood sugar levels and peripheral limb health to prevent injuries.

With our support he followed the bespoke physical activity programme and made significant progress. Paul attended supported gym sessions weekly. These built his confidence to use a range of gym equipment safely so that he could exercise independently. The social aspect of coming to the gym also helped his recovery.

Paul made many new social connections and these improved his emotional well-being and has progressed to higher repetitions and weights, and initiated lower body strength training in preparation for a prosthetic limb.

Paul has many improved health outcomes, such as enhanced cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and glucose control. This reduces the risk of further complications from Type 2 Diabetes. These health outcomes are likely to result in fewer medical interventions lower healthcare costs, and a better quality of life.

“Coming to the gym has been a great experience because I’ve made some wonderful friends in a very sociable and friendly place. I don’t think I would have gotten through the depression and the difficult times, including my amputation, without the support I’ve received here.

The staff have provided help, advice, and an individual exercise plan that has really helped me progress. Everyone, from the gym staff to the reception team, has been so supportive and encouraging, always greeting me and asking how I’m doing.”