Additional Medical Support & FAQs

Our Healthy Lifestyles programmes are designed to support people safely.

Following your consultation, we may recommend medical clearance, additional support, or an alternative pathway if we feel this is needed to ensure your safety.

This may include:

We may need to delay starting the programme if you have:

  • Unhealed surgical wounds
  • A current fever or acute illness
  • An active foot problem, such as ulceration
  • Significant pain, dizziness or excessive breathlessness during exercise

Additional medical clearance may be required if you have:

  • Unstable or uncontrolled angina
  • New or uncontrolled heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias)
  • Uncontrolled resting heart rate (tachycardia above 100 bpm)
  • Unstable or acute heart failure
  • Uncontrolled blood pressure (resting blood pressure above 180/100 mmHg)
  • Significant changes in ECG results or a recent heart attack/acute cardiac event within the last 6 months
  • Symptoms of low blood pressure, including significant drops in blood pressure during exercise
  • Unstable or uncontrolled cardiovascular conditions

Additional assessment may be required for:

  • Recent stroke (within the last 3 months)
  • Established cerebrovascular disease
  • Older adults with a high risk of falls
  • Frailty combined with osteoporosis and a history of fractures
  • Severe cognitive impairment affecting ability to exercise safely

We may need further information or medical clearance for:

  • Unstable diabetes
  • Advanced diabetes requiring specialist management
  • COPD, emphysema or other lung conditions associated with significant breathing limitations

We may recommend further support if you have:

  • An acute or uncontrolled psychiatric illness
  • Any unstable or uncontrolled medical condition that may affect your safety during exercise
  • Participants must be 16 years or older to access the programme.

These criteria are used to ensure that we can provide the safest and most appropriate support. If we are unable to meet your needs, we will discuss this with you and signpost you to a more suitable service where appropriate.


  • How much does it cost to attend the wellbeing walks?
    The walks are free for everyone. You do not need to be a member to attend.
  • Are walking locations accessible by public transport?
    Yes, our wellbeing walks take place in areas that are easy to reach by public transport. Full details and directions will be provided once you join.
  • Will the walking pace be suitable for me?
    Yes! Our wellbeing walks are designed to be inclusive and welcoming for everyone, regardless of fitness level. Our walk leaders will match the pace of the slowest walker so no one is left behind! We do however require that you are able to walk at least 30 minutes continuously.
  • What should I wear?
    We recommend wearing comfortable clothing suitable for the weather and walking boots.

How can I get referred?

If you are an oncology patient, you can get referred through the MacMillan team based at the Cancer Information and Support Centre at the UHCW*.

If you are a cardiology patient, you will need to have completed your rehabilitation at the Atrium. You can ask your care team there to refer you.

*Speak to your GP if it’s been over 6 months since your cardiac incident.

How do I get started?

Simply ask your healthcare provider to refer you. Once referred, we’ll invite you for a free consultation to create a tailored programme.

Where are the sessions held?

Sessions can be held at any of our centres.

You’ll be provided with full details during your consultation.

I am already a member, do I need to pay for the sessions?

You won’t need to pay for the sessions.

At the end of your programme you will be eligible for a change of contract and benefit from the discounted rate for 6 months.

What happens if I can only do specific times due to work or personal commitments?

We are flexible and can do sessions before 9AM or after 5PM, and on Saturday mornings.

Will I need medical clearance?

Depending on your condition, we may require medical clearance before starting the programme. This will be discussed during your consultation.

How long is each session?

Sessions typically last 45 minutes, but this may vary depending on the activity and your needs.

What if I can’t swim or feel nervous in the water?

No problem! Our pools are shallow, and our instructors will support you at a pace that feels comfortable. If you’re still unsure, we can discuss alternative activities better suited to your needs.

Are there female-only sessions available?

Yes, we offer female-only pool slots, and many of our classes are primarily attended by females and led by female instructors.

We can plan your sessions accordingly to ensure you feel comfortable. Unfortunately, we do not have female-only sections in our gyms.

What happens after I complete the programme?

At the end of the 12-session programme, you’ll receive tailored exercise recommendations and have the option to continue with a discounted membership.

How can I get more information?

For further details, you can email us at lifestyleshealth@cvlife.co.uk

The Wave
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Xcel Leisure Centre
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Centre AT7
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The Alan Higgs Centre
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Moat House Leisure Centre
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Fitness Suites
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Swimming
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Group Exercise
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