Scheme for heart patients and run by Inverness Caledonian Thistle Community Trust together with with NHS Highland and the University of the Highlands and Islands will return
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
A healthy living initiative which gives heart patients in Inverness the chance to join for free is back.
Inverness Caledonian Thistle Community Trust is once again joining forces with NHS Highland and the University of the Highlands and Islands for the scheme.
Football Fans in Training is offered to people who are recovering from heart attacks or surgery.
The 13-week programme, which is a national initiative already run at many of Scotland’s top football clubs, will include advice and support on physical activity, diet and weight loss for those taking part.
Craig Masterton, head of community at Inverness Caledonian Thistle Community Trust, said: “We had a lot of enthusiasm from those who took part in the programme last year and are looking forward to it starting up again.
“Using the pull of football to ensure we can access and benefit the local community is at the heart of everything we do.
“We are delighted to have the opportunity again to engage with those who have suffered cardiac events and we are positive we can help influence their recovery with a path back to exercise and health.”
Professor Steve Leslie, cardiologist and clinical lead for cardiac rehabilitation at NHS Highland, said: “The opportunity last year for local cardiac patients to take part in this initiative was very much welcomed.
“Increasing physical activity is a key part of recovery after a cardiac event and football is a fun and sociable way to exercise. I look forward to hearing how this year’s group gets on.”
Professor Trish Gorely, from the university’s department of nursing and midwifery, said: “Last year showed that this programme is enjoyable and effective. Those who took part said how much they got out of it and particularly enjoyed the camaraderie.
“It’s exciting to have another opportunity to help those who have suffered heart attacks or endured other cardiac events to improve their health and wellbeing.”
n Anyone who has been referred to cardiac rehabilitation should contact Craig Masterton either at craig.masterton@icttrust.org.uk or 07754 609425.
