Helen Ferndale, a housing manager from Northallerton, attributes much of her transformation to Aquafit sessions at Bedale Leisure Centre.
The 41-year-old, who weighed more than 20 stone at her heaviest, began losing weight last year after finding day-to-day tasks increasingly difficult.
Making a change: Helen begins her weight loss journey (Image: North Yorkshire Council)
She said: “I decided to start exercising because I was conscious that I’m not getting any younger and felt I needed to take action before I had health problems.”
“I’ve done Aquafit at Bedale Leisure Centre many years ago and was delighted to find that classes were still running there.”
Ms Ferndale, who now weighs under 13.5 stone, attends the centre’s sessions around four times a week and says they have helped her regain her confidence.
“My family and friends are so proud of me, I have more energy, I feel and look better, I can now shop in normal shops and I’ve even made £1,000 selling old clothes online,” she added.
AquaFit is just one of a number of fitness classes being offered in leisure centres across North Yorkshire as part of North Yorkshire Council’s new ‘Active North Yorkshire’ initiative, which aims to get more people active and improve their physical and mental health.
Councillor Simon Myers, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for culture, arts and housing, said: “Helen’s incredible achievement is proof that being more active can have a positive impact on people’s lives.”
“Our goal is to ensure everyone has the opportunity to live a healthier, more active life by providing activities and facilities that are accessible to everyone, regardless of their fitness level or ability.”
Aquafit sessions take place in the shallow part of the pool, so class members don’t need to be able to swim – the water helps with balance and makes training to music easier.
Zoe Challoner, instructor at Bedale Leisure Centre, says Aquafit is suitable for everyone.
She added: “It’s easy on joints, bones and muscles and is perfect for people of all abilities. It’s a great full-body workout and is good for your heart, as well as supporting your mental health and general wellbeing. Plus, it’s a great place to make new friends.”
She added: “Combined with a healthy diet, this is a fantastic exercise to help lose weight. Helen’s results are phenomenal – she looks incredible. The results speak for themselves.”
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North Yorkshire Council also offers a free Adult Weight Management Programme, a 12-week course supporting healthy eating and exercise.
Participants receive individualized weight loss plans and guidance from licensed health professionals across a range of support options.
For more information on the activities and programmes available at North Yorkshire leisure centres, visit the council’s website at www.northyorks.gov.uk/leisure-tourism-and-culture/leisure-facilities
