NHS Lanarkshire has launched a free online fitness series to help the local community get in shape and lead a healthier lifestyle.
The local health board’s community adult weight management group, Weigh to Go, is set to boost the physical, emotional and mental wellbeing of Lanarkshire residents.
Run in partnership with North Lanarkshire Council and South Lanarkshire Leisure, participants can take part from the comfort of their own home with Weigh to Go’s online Zoom classes, or join in at a number of the North and South Lanarkshire Leisure centres.
Each class is led by a qualified instructor, and consists of a 45-minute healthy eating and lifestyle interactive chat, followed by 45 minutes of low impact exercise, and is open to anyone who is 16 or older.
Weigh to Go online was initially piloted during the pandemic, and was such a success that NHS Lanarkshire decided to continue running alongside the face-to-face group classes which have recently relaunched at a limited number of leisure centres across Lanarkshire.
Martin Webb, health improvement senior – adult healthy weight, at NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Weigh to Go is a great chance to continue to improve your overall health and wellbeing.
“The programme incorporates both an education and physical activity element tailored to suit all fitness levels, and anyone in Lanarkshire is welcome to come along.
“Held by a friendly, qualified instructor, you will be supported on your journey to eat healthier and become more physically active.”
Melanie Menzies, health and wellbeing manager at North Lanarkshire Council, said: “After successfully piloting our online classes we are delighted they will continue alongside our hugely popular Weigh to Go programme within our centres. We’re looking forward to welcoming all attendees who wish to join.”
One participant of the online class said: “I signed up to Weigh to Go mainly looking to find something that combined healthy eating planning and exercise.
“I love the class, the instructor is really supportive and demonstrates each exercise. He encourages us and mixes up the exercises each week which is really motivating.”
Scott Crone, health development officer, South Lanarkshire Leisure, added: “Our popular, Weigh to Go classes are available for residents to join in and receive advice on living an overall healthier, balanced lifestyle, including exercise.
“Each week covers different health and wellbeing topics and how attendees can implement these into their current lifestyle.
“The exercise section of the class will also contribute to the NHS recommended amount of weekly physical activity (150 minutes).”