New equipment has been installed at Andover Leisure Centre to help people deal with the physical effects of diseases and conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s.
The new piece of kit, now installed in the gym, looks like an exercise bike but can be used by wheelchair users and by people who have trouble using standard fitness equipment.
The THERA-vital rehabilitation equipment exercises the upper and lower body and has an option where the motor moves people’s legs and arms without extra downward pressure.
It cost £6,000 to buy and was jointly funded by members of the North Hants Neurological Alliance, the Cerebral Palsy Association and Andover Leisure Centre.
The equipment can help to restore mobility to people suffering from neurological conditions and stroke victims.
Jess Browning, physical activity and development manager for Valley Leisure, who run Andover Leisure Centre, said: “We’re very happy to be able to help people continue their physical activity programme in our community environment.”
“The THERA-vital really caters for everyone, as you don’t need to be fit at all to use the equipment. Anyone who would like to know more or come and see it for themselves, should just give us a call” said Jess.
Staff in the leisure centre gym have been trained to supervise use of the machine, which can help people work around 80% of the muscles in their body.
People who are interested in using the THERA-vital machine should call 01264 347100. For health related enquiries, people should contact Liz Murray on 01264 347113.
