A team of healthcare professionals from Ilkeston medical centres are launching an exercise programme to encourage people living with diabetes to move more.
Six GPs and nurses from Littlewick Medical Centre and Gladstone House Surgery are organising a Couch to 5K programme. They have joined forces with Jog Derbyshire who are experienced in leading jogging groups for beginners along the beautiful Erewash canal in Ilkeston.
The team (pictured) will guide participants through every week’s activity which will also include answering questions about running and exercising with diabetes.
The popular programme – which encourages people to build up the time they can jog over a period of months – is being offered to people with diabetes, but everyone is welcome.
The first session will start at Johnny’s Park in Ilkeston at 6.15pm on Wednesday 12 September and is set to run for eight weeks. The ninth week will be a Couch to 5K graduation at the Park Run in West Park Long Eaton.
Organiser Dr Kriss Owen said:
“We have heard a lot of positive feedback from other people who have tried the NHS Couch to 5K programme and they say it really has improved their fitness. You don’t have to be able to run already, just be willing to have a go. We will meet at the same time each week and I hope as many people as possible join us.”
Jog leader Simon Kirk from Ilkeston Joggers said:
“We set up our group for people who might have been inactive, or felt excluded from sport, and not participated in sport for a long time. We welcome the opportunity to work with our local GP practices and promote the benefits of regular exercise together.”
Diane Smith, Diabetes UK Midlands Improving Care Manager, said:
“This is a really simple way of improving fitness in a safe and supportive environment.
“Keeping fit and healthy is vital for all of us, but for people living with diabetes, there can be additional benefits which really help with managing the condition.
“It can help the body use insulin more efficiently and regular activity can help reduce the amount of insulin you need to take.
“It also helps people lose weight if necessary or maintain a healthy weight. I would really encourage people to make the most of this great opportunity and take a great step forward to a healthier future.”
Pop into Littlewick Medical Centre if you want more information or see the Ilkeston Joggers - Jog Derbyshire Facebook page.
