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 | SIV supports new physical activity programme |  |
A new nationwide physical activity programme launched by the Government has received the backing of leading leisure operator Sheffield International Venues (SIV). The Department of Health's (DH) Be Active, Be Healthy scheme has been set up to develop a new structure for the delivery of physical activity in the build up to the London 2012 Olympic Games and beyond. Targeted mainly at adults, the sports-themed plan aims to support the Government's target to get two million more people active by 2012 and achieve reductions in health problems such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis. It will be driven through initiatives such as swimming, walking and dancing programmes, free gym membership schemes and existing national health initiatives such as Change4Life. A Physical Activity Alliance will also combine the resources of the voluntary and private sector, such as leisure centres and grass root organisations, to get more people moving. Justine Foster-Davis is head of sport for SIV, which provides a wide range of health, fitness and sports sessions for every target group across its portfolio of 14 leisure venues in Sheffield. Justine said: "Together with a greater investment in physical activity, the Olympic Games in London offers a once in a lifetime opportunity, as part of a decade of sport, to inspire individuals to make a commitment to physical activity."By supporting the campaign we aim to help break new ground in delivering a health legacy for the Games, which will contribute to the Government's target to get two million more adults active by 2012." GP referral schemes at SIV's Concord Sports Centre, Hillsborough Leisure Centre, and Ponds Forge, supported by NHS Sheffield, are hugely successful with almost 40 new referrals every week. The same venues are also home to an innovative obesity prevention and treatment programme, MEND (Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do It!). Across its facilities, SIV also stages tea dances, swim sessions for just £1, Silver Circuit classes for over 50s and dedicated disabled facilities accredited by the Inclusive Fitness Initiative. Justine added: "This is an exciting new initiative and SIV is already well-placed to link up with local partners and the DH to encourage even more people to take up physical activity in the city. "We are committed to increasing participation levels in Sheffield amongst people of all ages and abilities through the provision of first class health and fitness facilities at affordable prices, and Be Active Be Healthy mirrors our aims. "Physical activity is key to reversing the current obesity trends and through partnership working and value for money exercise for all the main target groups we can achieve immense health benefits and reach the two million more people active by 2012 objective." SIV's Fitness Unlimited membership scheme spans across four venues in the city including Concord Sports Centre, Don Valley Stadium, Hillsborough Leisure Centre and Ponds Forge International Sports Centre. Memberships start from just £5 a week and to find out more visit www.fitnessunlimited.co.uk or call 0114 223 3419. |
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