By National Healthcare Group Polyclinics (NHGP)
For years, daily activities such as walking and climbing the stairs had been difficult for Mr Nash. These activities often leaving him breathless and the thought of exercising was far from his mind.
My life has changed!” said Mr Nash, a 51-year-old patient from Ang Mo Kio Polyclinic, with a heart full of gratitude and new found vitality.
When Mr Nash first visited Ang Mo Kio Polyclinic in 2018, he did not expect to receive a pre-diabetes diagnosis, along with a prescription for weight loss. Understanding the need to do something about his weight, Mr Nash and his wife took a leap of faith and signed up for NHGP’s FitterLife programme. This programme comprised 12 weekly sessions at Serangoon Stadium, where he learnt the secrets of healthy weight management, develop new lifestyle habits and participate regularly in group exercises. Mr Nash learned that he was not alone in this journey, with many others journeying with him throughout the programme.
FitterLife Participants having fun with interval cycling @ Toa Payoh ActiveSG Gym (Photo taken in March 2019)
Class Photo of FitterLife Participants after Exercising @ Serangoon Stadium (Photo taken in September 2019)
Three months into the programme, Mr Nash lost 17kg and his blood glucose control has improved significantly. Stair climbing is now effortless and Mr Nash is now able to conquer a hike up Bukit Timah Hill, with Mrs Nash.
FitterLife is an NHGP initiative launched in 2018 to bring like-minded partners together to deliver care in the community. The collaboration involves NHGP, NHG, ActiveSG and TTSH to pool together their strengths and resources to achieve a common goal – to help patients, patrons and residents lead healthier lifestyle.
Despite the Covid-19 disruptions, FitterLife continues to evolve and find its place in the new normal. FitterLife participants would now meet in-person and online for the sessions on alternate weeks, learning skills on how to exercise safely at home and read food labels on online grocery platforms.
Class Photo of FitterLife Participants taking part in Zoom session in February 2021
Despite having fewer physical sessions, NHGP’s Health Promoters and TTSH’s Health Coaches stayed closely connected with the participants via mobile communication applications. Participants also learned and encouraged each other through group chat sharing and discussions.
The cherished in-person sessions were always filled with positive energy and laughter. Participants gathered safely in small groups for hands-on activities and celebrate their wins during the routine weight check. Participants also learned new exercise moves from ActiveSG’s instructors at the outdoor stadium.
Just as participants of FitterLife grow with the new experiences and gained more control over their health, the collaborative spirit between the various partners of FitterLife will continue to grow and bring FitterLife to more communities.
NOTE: Patient’s name has been changed for privacy reason
