A local woman who was 'inactive' for 18 months has rediscovered her fitness.

Sian, a Congleton resident, was in 'poor health and fitness' due to endemic hip pain. However, after having hip replacement surgery, and joining an exercise programme, she is now back on the move.

After surgery, Sian was referred by her GP to a 12-week programme at Congleton Leisure centre, run by Everybody Health & Leisure.

This 12-week Adult Exercise Referral programme has helped Sian achieve her health and fitness goals, including improving her strength in her right leg and general hip strength post-surgery.

"My health and fitness before joining was poor after 18 months of inactivity due to hip pain", she said.

"Since taking part my health and fitness has improved a great deal. I have enjoyed the flexibility and range of equipment in the gym. I am feeling more energized. My advisor, Victoria, was incredibly supportive and positive."

Before starting Everybody Health & Leisure's programme, Sian was not achieving the government guidelines of 30 minutes of exercise per week. She has now increased her physical activity levels by attending the gym two to three days per week, and is also back to playing tennis.

Victoria Clarke, a specialist health advisor at Everybody Health & Leisure, said: "Sian has done amazingly well during the past 12 weeks to achieve her goals and all her hard work has paid off.

"She has been very consistent every week using the gym and attending her reviews. She has made healthier lifestyle choices and is feeling much better physically and mentally. Sian has been a pleasure to work with."

Research has shown that physical activity can have a positive effect on a wide range of long term health conditions. Increasing your physical activity can help to reduce blood pressure, weight maintenance or loss, improve lung health and mental wellbeing, besides many other benefits.

To find out more information about Everybody's Exercise Referral programme visit - www.everybody.org.uk/what-we-offer/get-fit-and-healthy/health/adult-everybody-exercise-referral/.