Exercise Referral scheme

Exercise Referral scheme

Our GP Exercise Referral scheme by Places Leisure offers an ideal opportunity for individuals with long-term health conditions to increase their physical activity and enhance their overall health and wellness.  

Our Exercise Referral scheme aims to provide individuals with underlying medical conditions, or those at risk of developing conditions, the opportunity to engage in safe and welcoming physical activity, while also raising awareness of the benefits of such activity to foster long-term behaviour change. 

Engaging in regular physical activity can positively impact weight management, mental well-being, muscle and joint functions, and heart health. It not only helps manage existing conditions but also serves as a preventive measure against other health complications. 

Our Exercise Referral membership offers an initial 12-week support programme, tailored to empower individuals to self-manage their conditions with increased confidence. 

Find out about Maggie's Exercise Referral experience at Gosport Leisure Centre on our Instagram page here.

Who is Eligible for the Exercise Referral Scheme?  

Individuals with a range of health conditions, such as asthma, arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, depression, anxiety, osteoporosis, joint replacements, rehabilitation from Covid-19 and more, are welcome to participate in the Exercise Referral Scheme.  

How to Enrol 

 If you have a health condition, simply consult your GP, nurse, physio, or other healthcare practitioner. If you meet the eligibility criteria, they can refer you to the scheme. 

What is Included in the Exercise Referral Scheme? 

Week 1: Initial Health Assessment & Exercise Prescription (60 mins) 

• Meet exercise referral specialist 
• Complete initial health assessment 
• Complete/review initial questionnaire 
• Discuss goals, pathways, classes  
• Brief induction into the gym or health suite pool 

Week 2: Support Session (30 mins) 

• Receive personalized programme, guidance and encouragement 
• Discuss challenges or barriers 

Weeks 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10 & 11 Drop-in Supervised Support Sessions in the gym or pool (30/60 mins) 

• Attend as many sessions as you want knowing an instructor is there to help 
• Receive support and reassurance 
• Briefly discuss exercise techniques 
• Brief guidance on adding to your programme  

Week 6: Mid-Point Appointment (30 mins) 

• Complete mid-assessment questionnaire 
• Receive additional support, advice, and exercise adjustments 

Week 12: Scheme Evaluation (30 mins) 

• Complete end assessment questionnaire 
• Assess progress and determine programme continuation 

Post Week 12: Ongoing support 

• Access to supervised support sessions  
• Ongoing discounted membership 

Our vast range of exercise classes can be integrated into your exercise prescription along with specialised classes: 

• Swimming & group health and wellbeing classes
• Cardiac classes 
• Easy Group Cycle 
• Exercise on Referral Class – gentle circuits-based class open to anyone who wants to start slowly 
• Falls Prevention/Chair based - very low intensity for people wanting to improve strength, balance and posture, £6 for non-members and half price for members 
• Aqua Rehab 
• Aqua Walking 

How Much Does It Cost? 

Our GP Exercise Referral Scheme membership is available at a monthly rate of £39.00 and there is no joining fee for continuous membership taken by direct debit.

To find out more, speak to a member of the team or call us on 01444 8760000