Joint Friendly Fitness

When: Thursdays, 2.45–3.45pm
Where: Whitecross Community Room (off Kedleston Road) – on‑street parking available

Do you live with fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or generally struggle with mobility and joint pain? Joint Friendly Fitness could be the class that helps you feel stronger, more confident and able to move with less pain.

This slow‑paced, supportive session is tailored to individual needs and is free for Livewell clients and patients referred by the Rheumatology department at the Florence Nightingale Community Hospital.

Livewell advisor, Stu, starts each class by asking what participants would like to focus on – for example balance, legs, hips, shoulders or core strength – all with the aim of making everyday tasks easier, such as tying shoelaces, walking more comfortably or standing up from a chair.

Make no mistake, it is still a workout, with options to progress at your own pace and be gently challenged within your ability.

Katherine Taylor was referred by a Rheumatology Physiotherapy Nurse to continue mobility and strength exercises to help manager her rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia and multiple long-term conditions that cause chronic pain, discomfort and over time, deformities.

“It is a fantastic, friendly supportive environment filled with people managing various health conditions, making it inclusive and understanding. Stu is incredibly positive and welcoming, and makes sure each exercise is safe and clear for everyone in the class. We can work at our own pace, timing and strength ability. I am trying to manage multiple complex health conditions, and, after the sessions, I feel looser, energized and motivated to keep coming back. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to feel they can move more freely.”

Livewell client, Linda David, joined the programme in January and says her strength has improved “100%” since starting Joint Friendly Fitness:

“I love the social side of the session and Stu makes it informative and fun at the same time. He is very patient. I struggle with hip and shoulder pain but since starting the class five months ago, I have seen a big improvement in my range of movement and strength.”

Fellow client Christina Murphy feels far more confident to exercise:

“I have more stamina and it has been the perfect follow‑on from the ESCAPE‑Pain course. I cannot praise Stu and the team enough. I love the camaraderie and I have made some super friends – it is much more enjoyable exercising with others.”

Linda adds that exercise is now the one thing she could not imagine giving up – something she never thought she would say a year ago – and Joint Friendly Fitness is one of her firm favourites.

👉 How to join:
Livewell clients - Book your place on the Derby Active Website or app.

Derby Rheumatology patients – ask the Rheumatology team for a referral.

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