Hundreds of older residents are now getting fit and active for free through North Lincolnshire Council’s Fit for Free programme – boosting health, confidence and wellbeing in communities across the area.
Since April, almost 500 new participants have joined, with more than 1,200 people in total now benefitting from free gym sessions, fitness classes and wellbeing support across local leisure centres. Early November figures show even more residents continuing to sign up.
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “The most important thing is the difference this is making to people’s lives’ and it is fantastic to see almost 500 residents who weren’t gym members before are now getting fitter, feeling better and becoming more active.
“This is exactly what we set out for this to achieve. Many councils don’t invest in older people, we do.”
This surge in participation means hundreds of people are taking positive steps to improve their physical and mental health – supporting the council’s ambition to help residents live well for longer and reduce avoidable pressure on health and care services.
Cllr Carl Sherwood, cabinet member for safer, stronger communities (rural) added: “This isn’t just about gym sessions. It’s about confidence, prevention and helping people stay well in their own communities. Seeing so many residents take advantage of this support is hugely positive.”
If you are aged 66 or over you can get fit for free with two months’ access to the gym, swimming and virtual fitness classes. Find further information on our fit for free page.
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