National Fitness Day Celebrates Record Participation

National Fitness Day Celebrates Record Participation

LimbPower’s online National Fitness Day programme saw an incredible turnout this year with 203 participants with limb differences registering for the event, doubling the number from 2023. The day was packed with a variety of engaging classes, including Warm-Up Wobble, Paracise, Tai Chi, Zumba, HIIT, Pirate After School Session for children, Dance, and a reVAMP taster session.

What is National Fitness Day?

National Fitness Day is the UK’s largest celebration of health and fitness, aiming to inspire people of all ages and abilities to engage in physical activity. Organised annually by ukactive, this event highlights the crucial role that physical activity plays in helping us lead healthier lifestyles. It brings together communities across the country to participate in a wide range of activities, promoting the benefits of staying active.

Why Do We Take Part?

Participating in National Fitness Day allows individuals to explore new forms of exercise, build confidence, and foster a sense of community. This year, the event was particularly special as it was delivered by both Limb Different Instructors and non-disabled instructors who have worked with our community for many years. All classes were adapted to include both seated and standing programme options, ensuring accessibility for everyone.

Our online National Fitness Day workshop is a great early entry event into movement and physical activity for amputees and individuals with limb differences. It is an important part of the pathway for bridging the gap between hospital rehabilitation and community activity.

Quotes from Participants:

• Ellie B: “Can you pass Ian my thanks to Jay for an amazing medical qi-gong session to round off the day.”
• Anne G: “A really great day - good mixture of different forms of exercise plus fun and relaxation as well. Will sleep well tonight. A massive thank you to everyone involved in making the day happen.”
• Sue S: “My first classes with LimbPower but it’s been an amazing day with a variety of new and fun classes. Para dance was the first time in four years that I felt that I really ‘danced’ and moved to the beat of the music. So massive thank you for showing me what is out there as an amputee.”
• Helen R: “As always, an amazing day… extending and challenging my horizons in what I can do and achieve and so much fun!”
• Rachel II: “It was great to try Zumba for the first time! Harder than I thought but fun too.”
• Shelly P: “Very enjoyable classes, definitely feel more confident to take part in more!”
• Helen S: “The Para dance class was great fun. Made me move and laugh. Left the class feeling a buzz.”

Enjoyed National Fitness Day? Why not sign up for one of our online weekly classes. Contact Emma Newman for more information. Email: emma@limbpower.com.

Editor’s Notes:

• About LimbPower: LimbPower is a leading national charity and National Disability Sports Organisation dedicated to supporting amputees and individuals with limb impairments. Our mission is to engage amputees and individuals with limb differences in physical activity, sport, and the arts to improve their quality of life and aid in rehabilitation2.
• About ukactive: ukactive is a not-for-profit industry association that exists to improve the health of the nation by getting more people, more active, more often. National Fitness Day is one of their flagship events, aiming to make physical activity accessible to everyone and highlight its benefits for physical and mental health1.