Slim swim

Slim swim was designed to be a women only weight management programme, that encouraged people who do little or no exercise to become more physically active. Being overweight and physically inactive is known to increase the risk of serious illnesses, such as heart disease, cancer and strokes.

The women were encouraged to take responsibility for their own and family's health, by making long term changes to their lifestyle. The full 12 week programme was delivered at the local high school, during the summer term, for the past 4 years, and was very successful. The women spent 1 hour in the classroom, followed by an hour's free exercise, such as aqua aerobics or dance. 12 of the women achieved their OCN level 2 in Physical Fitness and Healthy Eating.

The women decided that they wanted to have an activity year round to keep exercising regularly. We helped organise walking groups and also a tutor to take an aerobics class once a week at the school, throughout the year. The women have trained as walk leaders and now organise and lead their own walks.

Members of the group volunteered to attend local events to promote slim swim and actively encouraged others in the community to join them by telling stories of how their own physical and mental health improved as a result of being a member.

They have also, with support, set up their own constitutional group called "Ladies in Action". They have successfully bid for funds to purchase equipment and train more walk leaders. They also wanted a voice in local decision making and now have respresentation from the group attending Communities First partnership meetings.

A partnership of organisations support slim swim with Equal: National Public Health Service Wales, Pen-y-dre High School, Community and Adult Education, Genesis Project, 3Gs Development Trust, Neighbourhood Learning Centre and the Groundwork Trust.