Leisure Centrehelps Chris getover his stroke

Chris, from Bexhill suffered from a stroke back in November 2010 aged just 43.

Prior to his stoke Chris lead a very active lifestyle, went to the gym at least three times a week and ate a balanced diet. Unfortunately he was unaware that he had high blood pressure and it was this that lead to Chris’ stroke which left him paralysed down the left side of his body.

In 2013 the UK Stoke Association informed Chris about Freedom Leisure’s exercise referral sessions at the Bexhill Leisure Centre. The weekly sessions are run by Steve Beall, a fully qualified GP referral specialist and advanced rehabilitation personal trainer.

Chris said: “Taking that initial step was quite a challenge but as soon as I arrived I felt completely at ease. The staff were so friendly and supportive and I really can’t thank Steve and the team enough.

“Those first few sessions were really great just to get me out of the house and it was a real weight off my mind knowing that others were in a similar situation and it felt good to just chat with people who understood how I was feeling.

“At first it was a real struggle, I have worked to build up my strength and I am now going three times a week and using more equipment each time. I have strengthened the right side of my body which has been really helpful when doing day-to-day tasks as there is still a long way to go on my left side.”

“Steve and the team have been so supportive and encouraging, he has been able to tailor my sessions to suit my needs and has really helped me improve my overall strength. I am now able to use the bike, rowing machine and cross trainer, and as a keen gym goer before my stroke it’s been great getting back to being more active.”

More informationStroke Support UK can be found on their website www.strokesupport-uk.co.uk.

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