Around Ealing Winter 2016-17 | Page 37

LEISURE yoga to table tennis; and from Zumba to aqua aerobics; and there is even a ‘stretch, jog and gym’ class which offers a mix of gentle stretching, walking or jogging and low impact exercise, with the added bonus of a cup of tea at the end. Eve Acorn goes to aqua aerobics at Northolt Leisure Centre twice a week and occasionally attends the table tennis session, too. She said: “Aqua aerobics is great – particularly if you are a little bit overweight, or have a joint problem, or a small disability. The water gives you a lift and the class gets you going – it is very good exercise. You can take it to your own level, too; whatever suits you.” ‘IT IS FUN AND ENJOYABLE’ If improving your overall health is the aim, then the knowledgeable staff will only be too willing to help. Amarjit Khambay, 61, became a member of Southall Sports Centre earlier this year. He wanted to get fitter and feel healthier. In just six months, he reached his ideal bodyweight and has also been helped by the centre’s team to improve his diet. He has even found his sleep has become better regulated. He said: “I found the atmosphere professional, warm and friendly. I feel part of the gym community now.” For more information, visit your local centre (see box on this page) or go to www.everyoneactive.com PAY AS YOU PLAY Activities can be paid for on a payper-session basis, so there is no need to worry about anything long term. However, if it is a membership you are looking for, then a senior concessionary rate is available. Exercise on referral An exercise referral scheme, run by Everyone Active and Ealing Council, provides a 12-week tailor-made package of exercise sessions, especially for people with, or at risk of developing, health problems. It covers a wide range of health conditions including high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, arthritis, being overweight or obese, depression or anxiety, and osteoporosis. Dr Claire Sillitoe from Cloister Road Surgery, Acton, said: “I have positive feedback from every patient who attends the sessions and have seen really significant and long term improvements in patient health resulting from the lifestyle changes they have made.” To access the scheme, you need a referral from your GP or other healthcare professional (practice nurses, physios). If you are interested in accessing this service, or would like any further information, contact Austin Lumley by email at [email protected] or by calling 07740 433 240. *Take this article to a participating centre. It allows you and a friend to try one of its 50+ activities free of charge. Offer expires 21 December 2016. For details of 50+ sessions ask the centre or visit www.everyoneactive.com around ealing Winter 2016/17 37