Founded in 1997 by a GP who wanted an alternative to prescribing traditional exercise and launched last year on the Isle of Wight, Green Gym has an established and proven approach to creating healthier communities and a better environment. BTCV Green Gym is a unique scheme offering people a new way of becoming healthier by taking part in nature conservation activities. Locally it is endorsed by the Healthy Living Programme and supported by many organisations. It prides itself on providing training in practical and organisational skills to participants.

The problem about keeping fit and getting exercise is that it can be a bit boring. The idea of staring at a wall whilst using an exercise machine just doesn’t inspire everyone!

Green Gym is about getting outside and creating a better environment, and by doing so getting fit. There are now many successful Green Gym projects nationwide.

The important thing about exercise is that to have any real effect it must be regular, at least once a week. Those leading the workdays are trained in warm-up and cool down exercises. Based at Oxford Brookes University, the Oxford Centre for Health Care Research and Development oversees the programme ensuring that it meets high professional standards and ensuring that clients are not put at risk.

Anyone who has been involved in the past or wishes to find out more should contact the secretary of the group  on (01983) 866459.

Back in 2003 Green Gym on the Isle of Wight was funded by the New Opportunities Fund and EU Leader+. Both of these sources of funding were accessed and administered through the Isle of Wight Economic Partnership.  In 2005 an application for a grant from the National Lottery "Awards for All" scheme was made and was successful enabling further tools and training to be paid for.  £ years later we continue thanks to the efforts of the volunteers who come out each week rain or shine.

Footprint Trust ~  The Riverside Centre ~ The Quay ~ Newport ~ Isle of Wight ~ PO30 2QR

Registered Company Number 0458 7815.  Registered Charity Number 1106024

telephone / fax: 01983 822282