Keep fit, have fun and feel a lot better (From Barry And District News)

Keep fit, have fun and feel a lot better

A WEEK of special events has been planned to celebrate the launch of a scheme helping and encouraging people in the Vale of Glamorgan to keep fit and have fun in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Venues across the area have been chosen to host Active for Life events (October 31-November 5), which will include walks with the Valeways organisation, swimming and exercise classes, and free health assessments and taster exercise classes. The free sessions are only available to Vale residents.

Focussing on physical activity, Active for Life, which is funded through the Big Lottery Fund, will be officially launched at Penarth Leisure Centre on November 3, at 1pm.

As part of the scheme, a free induction to Lifestyle Health & Fitness will take place on November 4, from 1pm at the Barry, Penarth, Cowbridge and Llantwit Major Leisure Centres - booking is essential.

Two people who have already been reaping the rewards of becoming more active are John Lee, aged 61, and Sharon Hopkins, both from Barry.

John, who began on the exercise referral scheme at the Vale leisure centres, said: "It has changed my lifestyle, and I'm so much fitter than I was.

"I started the scheme about a year ago and, since then, I've lost 20kg in weight and feel much better. Before I started the exercise referral scheme, I couldn't walk to the bus stop without stopping two or three times. Now I don't stop at all!"

Sharon Hopkins has achieved some similar results. Before starting the scheme, she had borderline high blood pressure.

She said: "Since starting the exercise scheme, my general health has improved and my blood pressure is now at a normal level."

The Active for Life Team was able to calculate that, in 12 weeks, Sharon had lost a massive 14kg of pure body fat.

"I have lost a total of three and a quarter stone," she said. "I feel much better within myself."

For a full timetable of events, to book a free induction or to obtain more information on the scheme, call the Active for Life Team, on (01446) 725959.