Healthwise in Belfast

Whether you’re new to exercise or need some support getting back into a routine, our Healthwise programme could be right for you. Healthwise is a GP referral scheme for people with pre-existing conditions. On this scheme, you’ll get 12 weeks of free support from our trained instructors, helping you take steps towards a healthier lifestyle. Learn how to manage your condition and add physical fitness into your daily routine to boost your overall health and wellness.

Fitness for free

If you have a pre-exisiting health condition, our Healthwise scheme means you can get support for free at your local gym for 12 weeks.

12 weeks of support

Over the 12-week scheme, our Healthwise facilitators will be there every step of the way to help you on your fitness journey.

City-wide referrals

Wherever you’re based, we offer our Healthwise programme across Belfast so you can find support near you.

About our exercise referral schemes

If you have an existing health condition, our GP referral exercise schemes can help you get into exercise and build up a fitness routine that helps you manage your condition and live a healthy lifestyle.

When you take part in Healthwise, you’ll have an initial assessment with your Healthwise facilitator where you’ll talk about your goals, have a gym induction, and work out a plan for your weekly sessions.

So that you feel supported throughout your journey, our Healthwise pathways include weekly group exercise sessions as well as regular check-ins to see how you’re doing. These review sessions give you a chance to have a one-to-one catch-up with your facilitator and review your progress against your goals.

And once you’ve completed your 12-week programme, you can enjoy a discounted Better membership so you can stay active in a way that works for you.

To get started, speak to your GP about getting a referral. They may be able to refer you directly or put you in touch with a specialist who can assess if Healthwise is right for you.

Read on to see what schemes are available across Belfast.

Musculoskeletal Physical Activity

If you have a musculoskeletal condition, the musculoskeletal (MSK) pathway will help you get into a regular exercise routine that works for your body.

Each week, you’ll attend a 45-minute group session - either in the gym or in the pool - with exercises to help boost your flexibility, strength, and balance. These instructor-led sessions will help you get into regular physical activity in a safe, friendly and supportive environment with help on hand every step of the way.

Where are classes held?

Andersonstown Leisure Centre | Olympia Leisure Centre | Falls Leisure Centre | Grove Wellbeing Centre | Templemore Baths

Cardiac Rehabilitation

If you have a heart condition, an active lifestyle can be important for staying fit and keeping your heart healthy.

Our cardiac rehabilitation programme will help you do just that, with support from our instructors to build up an exercise routine that works for you. Each week, you’ll work on a range of exercises to explore different ways to move your body and work on your fitness.

By the end of the 12 weeks, you’ll feel confident about exercising and will take away key skills about living a healthy and active lifestyle.

Where are classes held?

Grove Wellbeing Centre | Lisnasharragh Leisure Centre | Olympia Leisure Centre

Pulmonary Rehabilitation

If you have a respiratory condition, our Pulmonary Pathway might be the right exercise option for you.

Each week, you’ll have a face-to-face session with your Pulmonary coach to work on exercises that boost your cardiovascular health. Sessions usually include some stretching, interval workouts, and a cool down. Your instructor will make sure that everything is taken at a pace you’re comfortable with.

Where are classes held?

Girdwood Community Hub

Healthwise FAQs

These FAQs answer queries about Healthwise in Belfast. For general information about Better’s Healthwise programme, please see our Help Centre.

Which gyms can I visit with my Healthwise membership?

Taking part in a 12-week Healthwise scheme means you’ll get access to Better facilities across Belfast. Our Healthwise scheme is offered at the following centres:

What exercise referral schemes are on offer in Belfast?

Currently, we offer a range of Healthwise pathways for people with specific conditions. Alongside a general physical activity referral scheme, we offer support for those with musculoskeletal conditions, cardiac problems, and respiratory conditions.

What happens after the 12 weeks?

Anyone who’s completed a 12-week Healthwise scheme can sign up for a discounted Belfast membership, which gives you access to any Better facilities across the city. You’ll get full gym, swimming, and fitness class access, including our range of ‘Basics’ fitness classes with lower-impact exercise options ideal for those who have recently completed a referral scheme.