Falkirk Council

What is Active Forth?

Active Forth is the physical activity referral scheme for Falkirk District. It is a scheme where your GP, physiotherapist, rehabilitation specialist or other medical professional can refer you to take part in a structured physical activity programme for 12 weeks.

Who can be referred?

If you have any of the following medical conditions, Active Forth could be for you!

• Coronary Heart Disease (or risk of)
• High Blood Pressure
• Diabetes
• Asthma/Respiratory Disorder
• Arthritis
• Epilepsy
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Chronic Back Pain
• Spondylosis
• Mild/Moderate Mental Health Issues
• Motor Disease
• Obesity

*If you have a medical condition that is not stated on this list but feel you would benefit from a structured programme, please get in touch with one of our Physical Activity Referral Consultants to discuss.

What is involved?

You will enjoy the benefits of exercise under the guidance of our fully qualified staff at a discounted rate. The referral is for 12 weeks:

1. 1st appointment – information session about the scheme and what is involved
2. 2nd appointment – fitness assessment and a physical activity programme is devised based on medical conditions
3. 4 week review – check up to see if there have been changes to medical conditions or medications and to update programme
4. 8 week review – further check up on progress
5. 12 week re-assessment – fitness assessment is retaken to determine any improvements, results are then sent back to referring practitioner.

After the 12 week programme we encourage people to continue their physical activity programme as part of a lifestyle change and offer another membership for a further 12 weeks at a discounted rate to encourage prolonged participation.

The exercise will be set at a comfortable level to suit your capabilities and to ensure enjoyment, as well as gaining the health benefits associated with exercising. This can be done individually or in a group situation.

Other services/classes associated with Active Forth are:

• 'Active Forth' Class
• 'Back in Action' Class – specialised class for physiotherapists to refer people with back pain
• D.E.A.L.E Weight Management Programme
• Smoking Cessation Classes
• Step Forth walking groups
• Braveheart walking groups in Bonnybridge, Stenhousemuir and Callendar Park
• Special needs class in Dawson
• Free swimming sessions
• Class in association with Westbank Day Unit

What are the benefits of physical activity?

• helps to relieve stress and depression
• strengthens your bones and muscles
• maintains joint function, keeping you supple and more mobile
• improves your circulation and can lower blood pressure
• protects against cancer
• improves your sense of well-being, improving health-related quality of life

The Scottish Government recommends that you should be active at a low to moderate rate of intensity for at least 30 minutes each day, most days of the week, to improve your health.

Where are we based?

Active Forth operates from the Circuit Health & Fitness Clubs in Grangemouth, Bo'ness and Mariner Leisure Centre in Camelon and the Dawson Centre. The aim of the scheme is to give you an opportunity to become more active and gain the benefits of a healthier lifestyle.

You will receive a personalised service from one of our Physical Activity Referral Consultants: