Diabetics in Bodmin Embrace Physical Activity Day at Local Leisure Centre

Diabetics and pre-diabetics in Bodmin and the surrounding area recently attended a special physical activity day at the Better Bodmin Leisure Centre.

Organised in partnership with Bosvena Health, the event aimed to educate and engage individuals living with diabetes and pre-diabetes through informative presentations and various physical activity taster sessions.

Raising Awareness and Encouraging Participation

The event featured a compelling presentation on diabetes, highlighting critical statistics and the benefits of physical activity in managing the condition. Attendees learned that there are 5.6 million diabetics in the UK, with the disease contributing to 660 heart attacks, 2,990 heart failures, and 930 strokes on average each week.

Diabetes nurse Claire Bolton addressed the audience, emphasising the importance of staying active. “Activity is all about moving and not sitting still for too long,” Claire explained. She recommended low impact sports such as walking football, short tennis, pickleball, swimming, yoga, and Pilates, which not only help maintain health but are also enjoyable and social.

Positive Community Response

The event, which operated under the Better brand by GLL—a not-for-profit social enterprise running ten leisure centres in Cornwall—saw an excellent turnout. Karen Edmond, GLL Community Sport Manager, expressed her satisfaction with the event’s success. “We’re delighted to be working with Bosvena Health on this very important effort. The turnout for the two sessions we ran on the day was excellent and everyone seemed to enjoy taking part and finding out more. The support services available in the provider marketplace also proved popular and useful.”

Personal Stories of Engagement

Among the attendees was Pam Childs, a prediabetic from Bodmin, who decided to participate after receiving a text message about the event. “I was diagnosed a long time ago and, although I’m quite a shy person and my condition is under control, I want to do some low impact exercise,” Pam shared. “It’s a really interesting day and I’m glad I made myself do it.”

For those interested in learning more about the activities offered at Better Bodmin Leisure Centre, additional information can be found on their website at Better Bodmin Leisure Centre.

This event marks a significant step towards empowering individuals with diabetes and pre-diabetes to take control of their health through enjoyable physical activities.