A stroke patient is urging other people suffering from long-term illnesses to try out a fitness facility in Grimsby after seeing dramatic improvements to her health after using the facility just twice a week for six months.

The toning suite at Lincs Inspire’s Grimsby Leisure Centre offers a gentle and relaxed form of exercise for people who have medical conditions, haven’t exercised in a while or who just don’t like traditional gyms.

Debby Fields, mum of three from Grimsby, suffered a stroke last year at the age of 38 and started to use the facility to help gain muscle strength. “My stroke was totally unexpected”, explained Debby. “I was a healthy, active mum and I just didn’t expect anything like this to happen to me. I spent seven weeks in hospital and at first I couldn’t speak and found it hard to identify basic objects.

“Since using the facility I have made a gradual but definite improvement. I would first come to my therapy sessions in a wheelchair, but six months on I am using my wheelchair less frequently and I can get independently on and off the machines. I can only assume I wouldn’t be where I am today without the toning suite and I would encourage other people not to hesitate and to give them a go.”

Liz Foden, Lincs Inspire therapist, explains why the suite is ideal for stroke patients and people with mobility problems. “The toning tables don’t distinguish between the weaker or the stronger side of the body”, said Liz. “They work both sides equally and for stroke patients it is invaluable. You have to build up your exercise – but you can do it with these machines. You can just lie there and still work your body. These small changes make such a difference to people’s recovery.”

The toning suite has eight ‘beds’ and each work a main muscle group. They are not aerobic and therefore don’t burn calories. But used regularly, ideally two to three times a week, they help people to gain muscle strength and lose inches whilst placing no strain, impact or stress on the body. Ideal for rehabilitation the suite is also used by people with arthritis, osteoporosis, multiple sclerosis as well as people who have undergone heart operations and joint replacements.

The Toning Suite is open from 8am to 8:30pm daily with special clinics for appointments on Mondays from noon to 5.00pm and Thursdays from 10:30am to 5.00pm. All new clients will need to make an appointment prior to using the machines for an induction. To arrange a meeting contact (01472) 323100.