Alerts
Notifications

Exercise Referral

What is Exercise Referral?

This is a 10-week referral scheme for people with medical conditions whose health could benefit from leading a more active lifestyle. The scheme can help with how to exercise safely and comfortably, improving health and managing symptoms of your condition.

What is involved?

Working with one of our fitness professionals each week, you will plan personalised activities to suit you, which can include pool-based options, healthy eating and nutrition advice. Join smaller group sessions, specialist classes and regular progress monitoring.

For the duration of the scheme, you will also have full Premier membership at all East Riding Leisure Centres, allowing you to use the gym, swimming pool and classes for no extra charge. View what's included with Premier membership.

You could be eligible for this scheme if you live in the East Riding, are over 16 years old, and at least two of the following apply to you:

  • Inactive lifestyle
  • Any controlled medical condition, for example:
  • Asthma
  • Weight loss
  • Overweight
  • Mental health
  • Depression
  • Anxiety or stress
  • Musculoskeletal Joint problem
  • Hypertension
  • Other Coronary Heart Disease or high cholesterol Risk

If you are not eligible, but are concerned about your health and want to get more active, why not try our Health Plus scheme, free for all members of East Riding Leisure. Find out more about Health Plus

Please note: This list is a guide only and not exhaustive, most health conditions will be considered unless there is a medical reason not to exercise.

To join this scheme, you need to be referred by one of the following:

  • East Riding GPs
  • Specialised Nurses
  • Consultants
  • Physiotherapist
  • Occupational Therapist

To get a written referral, book an appointment with one of the above practitioners and ask about the health scheme at East Riding Leisure.

Are you a health professional? Read more about the HealthiER schemes and how to refer patients online on our health professionals page.

If you are eligible, your health professional should send a written referral by email to the HealthiER team.

If you need to call the HealthiER team, their office is open Monday to Friday, 8am to 4.30pm.

This programme costs £40 which must be paid in full at reception at the beginning of your first session, using cash or card.

Are you a health professional? Read more about the HealthiER schemes and how to refer patients online on our health professionals page.

Reviews from programme participants

Zena | South Holderness

I referred to the exercise referral scheme by my GP. This was because I have problems with my knee after surgery. Before coming onto the scheme, I only used the swimming pool and not the gym. I could do most things, but I was limited to what I could do with because of my left knee. Whilst on the scheme, I have noticed I am not out breath so much when walking or working out in the gym. My blood pressure has dropped too. My knee is moving a lot better, and it is getting a lot stronger. My mental health has also improved too, and it has allowed me to look forward.

Abbie | Hornsea

I have been a member for over a year now and use the facility with my family. I have recently moved onto the health programme and really enjoy working with Beth and James. Their support and knowledge is really helping me achieve my goal and they even tell me off when im having a bad day. The site is truly amazing and you can see the progression in my short time of been a member.

Vivienne | Haltemprice

After a disappointing experience at another gym, I turned to Haltemprice for support in managing the pain in my hips. This 10-week referral scheme proved to be a game-changer for my health and well-being.
Initially drawn to Haltemprice for its enjoyable swimming facilities, I found myself facing hip pain that threatened my active lifestyle. Following my GP's recommendation, I enrolled in the Exercise Referral Scheme, seeking guidance on safe and comfortable exercise tailored to my medical condition.
Under the guidance of the instructors, I experienced a level of professionalism and attentiveness that exceeded my expectations. They ensured I trained safely and effectively, familiarizing me with the equipment and correcting my techniques, pushing me at a pace suitable for my needs, resulted in remarkable outcomes.
Now, I am proud to say that I frequent Haltemprice five times a week, participating in a diverse range of keep-fit classes, including Aqua Aerobics, Healthy Lifestyles, Escape Pain, Gym sessions, Chair Aerobics, and General Swimming. This increased activity level, combined with a heightened awareness of my diet, has not only aided in weight management but also significantly improved my overall well-being.
Thanks to the Exercise Referral Scheme, I have achieved newfound confidence in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, improved mobility, and a sense of social inclusion. The positive impact on my emotional well-being is evident as I eagerly anticipate each session. The availability of various activities at the centre has been a key factor in keeping me engaged and motivated.
To anyone contemplating the Exercise Referral Scheme I wholeheartedly recommend it. My personal results, including weight loss, enhanced mobility, and improved emotional well-being, are a testament to the effectiveness of the program. I have also had the pleasure of meeting others who share in the benefits of this scheme. The staff's friendliness, warmth, and professionalism create an environment that fosters success and well-being.

Ash | Haltemprice

Ash Burnley joined the Exercise Referral Scheme at Haltemprice Leisure Centre, in August 2023 aiming to gain more leg strength. With specific goals in mind, primarily focused on strengthening her legs and improving her overall health and well-being.

Before joining the program, Ash lacked access to proper equipment at home and needed motivation and guidance to improve her leg strength. She also wanted to reduce her stress levels.

Ash's Story Ash showed admirable dedication to the program. She not only participated in the sessions but also added daily exercise to her routine. This new habit improved her sleep quality and boosted her motivation to keep up a healthy lifestyle. Moreover, Ash improved her diet, which further increased her overall well-being.

I would tell anyone who is considering joining the scheme: the trainers at Haltemprice gym changed my mind about what a gym is like. The atmosphere is friendly, and my results are evident.

Ash's positive outcome with the Exercise Referral Scheme inspired her to carry on her fitness journey. She chose to join Haltemprice Leisure Centre, where she felt confident to manage her activity levels and maintain her progress.

Ian and Heather | Beverley

Heather had limited stamina and endurance whilst walking, she now feels less exhausted on walks than when she first started on the referral scheme, and she can comfortably lift weights now.

Ian takes medication for an under active thyroid which means he lacks energy a lot of the time, exercising at the gym has really lifted his energy levels.

We both have a more positive attitude to health and getting out and about and doing more. We found we are doing more walks and enjoying them. When someone says that we’ve lost weight it feels good. Instead of saying "we’ll start tomorrow" we’ve turned tomorrow into today. We haven’t looked back.

James | Francis Scaife

I joined the Exercise Referral programme at East Riding Leisure Francis Scaife. I was referred due to severe back pain, the pain was getting so bad that I was struggling to do the most basic of tasks or movements. I have used gyms in the past but I was still a little hesitant. I shouldn't have been, I was welcomed from the first moment I visited the centre.
The staff were exceptionally helpful, supportive and motivated. The scheme helped me change my lifestyle, becoming more active with healthier eating habits.
I felt fitter, had some good weight loss and most importantly I could move so much better without the discomfort of that back pain. I would thoroughly recommend the scheme to everyone. The facilities and staff were second to none.

Fiona | Beverley

Fiona did not want to join another gym when she moved to Beverley but got placed on a referral here and now comes at least 3 times a week and absolutely loves it. She started with a battle with herself at first to get here now she comes because she wants to and because she loves it. She thinks the gym is brilliant, she enjoyed all the equipment. She enjoys the inclusivity of ERL Beverley and would definitely recommend it to anyone else. It has improved Fiona's health, confidence and she says all the staff are very helpful, encouraging and courteous. Fiona exercises at home as well as using the site. She mainly just uses the gym and not the pool etc but she is going to try some classes soon like RPM, low impact circuits etc. Fiona says we have improved her quality of life overall.

Anonymous | South Holderness

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time on the exercise plan. The staff at South Holderness Leisure have been fab. All of them have been supportive, helpful and friendly. I was really anxious before I came but I have discovered I quite like exercise and have lost weight, gained confidence and become fitter.

Yvonne | Bridlington

I am so pleased I did my referral from GP and think I got the best trainer, Sizwe as he really encouraged me was friendly, helpful and just a great guy. I feel so much better in myself both my body and mind and when I started I thought I had nothing to live for and I was stuck in a rut. Now I get up thinking life is worth living again, making new friends and just enjoying doing something I enjoy. I could not have achieved all this without Sizwe and the other members of staff as they are really helpful and friendly.

Diane | Goole

I was referred onto the Exercise Referral Scheme due to having problems with my lower back.
When I first started, I did lots of walking but had difficulty bending. I would wake up with a lot of back pain which has improved at least 50-60%.
I am now more active and drinking more water, I have less back pain and I am feeling stronger.
I will be continuing to attend the gym at least 2 times a week.
If I was talking to someone about this, I would tell them to take advantage of the programme and don’t be worried as the staff are really friendly and helpful.
I have enjoyed the journey and feel a lot better for it.

Gaynor | Hornsea

I was referred by my doctor as I was very limited in what I could do after losing my leg. I have had to learn all over again. I can now use more machines and more active with better mobility. Now I have completed the programme I have taken out an afternoon membership which is fantastic value for the money. If I could give any advice to anyone unsure to use the facility I would say "just get on with it and do it" you will not look back.

Anonymous | South Holderness

I have been really pleased with my progress since being on the scheme. I started the gym 6 months ago on the health programme, well overweight, unfit with a miserable BMI. I am now fitter, lower weight, increased muscle mass, less body fat and more confident that I can improve more. Fabulous staff.

Melissa | Goole

I was referred onto the exercise referral scheme due to having health investigations such as PCOS. When I started on the scheme, I didn’t have a lot of experience within a gym environment or with using free weights.
I am now feeling healthier, exercising more and walking more. My clothes are also fitting me better and I have more confidence to try new things.
I will continue to grow my self-confidence and work towards my goals by continuing to attend the gym.
I would say to anyone that has been referred that they should definitely try it, the staff making you feel comfortable and work at your own individual pace.

Austin | Goole

I was referred to the exercise referral scheme at Goole due to cardiac conditions. I have AF, a hernia and an enlarged aorta. Due to a few health problems, I did notice that my fitness had reduced but from completing the scheme and working alongside Kelly, I have noticed an improvement in my stamina, confidence and my knowledge of what intensity I am able to work at whilst exercising.
Now that I have completed the scheme, I will be reinstating my membership, I will be continuing to attend the gym on a regular basis and I will also continue to attend the exercise classes which have been advised are best for me.
The scheme has really helped me to get myself back to where I used to be, I would definitely recommend the scheme to others.

Ready to start your fitness journey?
Join online and pay just £10 for your first month*
*applies to Direct Debits only, excludes cash membership and membership promotions
Sign up today