WILTSHIRE exercise instructor Julie Reid has launched a new programme of classes for older people and those who are recovering from injury.

She launched the 'Flexercise' sessions a month ago at the Paxcroft Mead Community Centre in Trowbridge from 2-3pm on Wednesdays.

Julie, 63, of Walmsley Chase, Paxcroft, said: "I am in the process of setting up an exercise to music session for people who are less fit, recovering from an operation/illness or perhaps have a long-term condition which requires a more gentle and focussed approach.

"I am fully qualified in this field and currently run four more active exercise-to-music classes plus work on a one-to-one basis with clients in their own homes.

"This is a service that is very much needed in the community especially with the Covid-19 restrictions which have really limited access to social groups and exercise.

"I really want to get going with this and when I get a few more people coming I intend to include a ‘cup of tea and a chat’ session afterwards to make it more sociable.

"I know that there are so many people in the community who would benefit from this both mentally and physically."

Ms Reid is an exercise specialist at FLexercise West Wiltshire and runs her own private client business.

A former customer advisor in Adult Social Care at Wiltshire Council, she has been teaching for more than 30 years and is now offering friendly, flexible fitness programmes.

Ms Reid already runs classes in local care and nursing homes, as well as community classes in village halls and community centres.

She charges £7 per person, per session, to include tea and coffee, and targets an age range of 35 to 80 years.

She runs an afternoon class every week at Hilperton Village Hall from 2-3pm on Thursday, and three evening classes at Paxcroft Mead Community Centre from 6.30-7.30pm on Monday, at Atworth Village Hall from 6.30-7.30pm on Tuesday, and at Steeple Ashton Village Hall from 6-7pm on Thursday.

Ms Reid said: "I am also looking to run one at Trowbridge Town Hall who are keen for me to do this."

The sessions are choreographed using her own music, and she also plays music requests from those taking part.

"The music is chosen to go with the exercise movements that we are doing. A lot of work goes into it and we can adapt the music for people with conditions such as Parkinson's Disease or someone with a long or short-term injury.

She added: "If you’re a little nervous about getting active or attending a class just remember to take things at your own pace, small steps are better than no steps at all.

"If you’d like to chat about your fitness goals feel free to message me.

"I am very passionate about my work and I believe in what I do. I like to make a difference to the people I work with," Ms Reid said. "If it helps people, that means a lot to me."

To book into a session, contact Julie Reid on 01225 766844 or 07877 020481, or email: juliefit@outlook.com.