Everything you need to know
before your Exercise Referral appointment
We’re so pleased to be supporting you on your journey to improving your health and wellbeing. Engaging in regular physical activity can positively impact your health in many ways.
We hope this page supports you in preparing for your upcoming appointment. If you have any further questions, do not hesitate to speak to a member of the team.
Remember, your discounted membership covers the cost of your programme, alongside giving you unlimited access to the gym, pools, and group workout classes.* Plus, you'll pay no joining fee!
Programme overview
Your personalised programme offers a variety of activities for you to try, our friendly team will always work with you to tailor these to suit your needs.
Please ensure you have completed any questionnaires you have been sent before you arrive for your appointment. These will be sent to you via text message.
Exercise Referral programme overview
Exercise Referral programme overview
Week 1: Initial health assessment (60 mins)
• Meeting with the Exercise Referral Instructor
• Register onto a discounted membership, which includes the Exercise programme, alongside unlimited gym use, pool use, and group workout classes during and after the programme
• Explain how to access and use the centre
• Review pre-appointment questionnaire alongside current health and set goals for progress
Week 2: Programme support session (30 mins)
• Mid-programme personalised guidance and encouragement
• Discuss successes and challenges around activity, discuss techniques and modifications, review current progress, and identify next steps
Week 6: Mid-programme appointment (30 mins)
•Review mid-point questionnaire, including progress at this halfway point, and adjust programme as appropriate
• Discuss exercise goals and techniques
• Ensure safety and effectiveness
Week 12: Programme evaluation (30 mins)
•Review final questionnaire, reflect on progress and successes, discuss ways to continue to be active following completion of the programme
Post-programme support
• Continue to access the centre facilities with their membership
•Various exit pathways are available and can be discussed based on your needs
Frequently asked questions
Our friendly team are here to support you every step of the way to ensure you get the most our of your programme. We have outlined our most frequently asked questions below.
What do I need to bring to my sessions?
Please ensure you wear comfortable clothing that you’re able to move in and supportive footwear.
We recommend you bring a water bottle and workout towel with you so that you can complete your session comfortably.
For full information on accessibility, locker usage, travel, and parking for your chosen centre, please visit the ‘More’ tab on your centre’s website homepage.
When I arrive at the centre, where do I need to go?
Please head to reception and inform a member of the team of your arrival.
How much does the programme cost?
Your Exercise Referral programme is included as part of your discounted membership with us. Remember that in addition to the programme, your membership includes unlimited gym use, pool use, group workout classes, and full access to the Places Leisure app!*
Why are the programme questionnaires important?
These questionnaires provide a valuable opportunity for you to reflect on your progress and highlight both your successes and challenges. By completing them before you arrive for your appointment, you'll help us make the most of your appointment time and ensure we can offer you the most informed and effective support.
Do I have to use the gym?
Our programme includes more than just using the gym. We will always work with you to identify appropriate activities and ensure you feel completely comfortable throughout your programme.
How long does each session last?
Please refer to the programme overview section for approximate timings for each session.
How do I cancel or rearrange my appointment?
If you need to cancel or change an appointment, please let us know by responding to the text that you have received to confirm your appointment. Your reply will be picked up by a member of the team.
What our Customers say
We're proud of impact our programmes have on our Communities, from improving physical wellbeing to supporting with a range of health conditions.
You can hear from two of our happy members on their experience with our programmes.
Meet Fasal
"I was diagnosed with MS 13 years ago. At that time, I spent my leisure time running, cycling, enjoying martial arts and occasional trekking.
Over the years, I became increasingly disabled and, bit by bit, had to give up all my physical pursuits until I was in a wheelchair. The enforced sedentary lifestyle left me feeling depressed and, while not quite suicidal, I felt I had nothing left to look forward to. At 52, life was as good as over.
After being made redundant last June, I decided to try getting back in the gym but my first attempt resulted in disappointment. Between my wheelchair and limited arm function, I simply couldn't use any of the equipment.
The turnaround came when Dave showed me how to navigate the equipment despite my disability. I'll never forget the first time I felt my heart beating a little faster, breath quickening a little and the long-forgotten feeling of muscles straining against weight resistance.
I now hit the gym three times a week. My muscle tone has improved significantly and I now have the strength to propel my wheelchair uphill somewhat. My T Shirts now fit noticeably snugger
I have no idea if working out will slow my disease progression but I do know that I feel a lot, lot better about myself. About life"
Meet Sue & Kevin
Sue and Kevin have been attending our Exercise Referral Programme since November 2024 for differing reasons. Sue wanted to become more active, due to arthritis in her knee and for weight loss and to improve her mental health. Kevin is pre-diabetic and wanted to improve his mental health.
Meet Ruth
I have an underactive thyroid and have been taking Levothyroxine for many years. The doctor also put me on statins some years ago as my cholesterol was high. I also have a hiatal hernia and have needed to take Omeprazole and Lansoprazole daily for some years to manage acid reflux.
This time last year, I was suffering from hip pain caused by an inflamed bursa. I had been given steroid injections and prescribed painkillers, which I did not want to take. I started attending Aqua Balance at Fairfield, and the weekly sessions in the pool helped a lot.
I spent most of March and April last year with my family in Abu Dhabi following the death of my younger sister. It was good to get into the pool there and enjoy playing with my grandchildren. When I came home, a routine blood test showed raised blood sugars of 6.5, meaning that instead of being prediabetic, I was now in the diabetic range. I was told it should be checked again in six months. Meanwhile, I decided it was time to do something different to try to improve my health.
I gave the Zumba Gold class a try. I remembered attending Zumba classes twenty or so years ago, which I loved, but I was younger then! However, I was given a warm welcome and really enjoyed the first class with Jane. I started attending her weekly Thursday class and managed to keep up. Then, in June, a new class was offered – Zumba Gold Toning! I was hooked! I also started another class with Jane called Stretch and Define. I became a member on Exercise Referral. Since then, I’ve tried Aquafit, Forever Active, Healthy Back, Easy Group Cycling, Easy Circuits, and Stretch Core and Flow.
I love all the classes. All the instructors are amazing. They make the classes fun, and I really enjoy each one.
I recently had a further blood test, and my cholesterol levels have dropped. I’ve lost weight gradually, and my blood sugars are now down to 6.2! This means I have reversed to the prediabetic range. I rarely get acid reflux now and no longer need to take Omeprazole or Lansoprazole. My GP said, “Whatever you are doing, keep it up!”
My mental wellbeing has improved, and I feel confident that I will continue to eat healthily and exercise regularly.
I am so grateful for all the help and encouragement I have received from all the instructors and Mervyn. The whole team at Fairfield is made up of lovely people. The receptionists have been very kind and helpful. I feel valued and truly appreciate the work they all do. Thank you.
*Facilities vary by centre