Patients living with long-term physical conditions are embracing a novel approach to rehabilitation by participating in physiotherapy sessions held in local gyms, thanks to a pioneering NHS initiative designed to promote sustainable health and independence.
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust has partnered with Fusion Gym in Frome and Wincanton Sports Centre to provide free, community-based rehabilitation outside traditional hospital settings. This collaboration allows patients to continue their recovery in familiar, accessible environments without additional cost to the NHS or themselves.
Led by the musculoskeletal physiotherapy teams at Frome and Wincanton community hospitals, the program supports patients with chronic or degenerative conditions—focusing on long-term care rather than short-term injury recovery. Patients benefit from tailored guidance on gym equipment and exercise routines conducted in supportive group settings, aimed at replicating the experience of being full gym members.
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Vicky Hier, musculoskeletal physiotherapy lead for Mendip at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, highlighted the program’s benefits: “By bringing physiotherapy sessions into the gym, we’re helping patients build confidence and see the gym as a welcoming space. Our therapists, who already have a relationship with the patients, lead these sessions, making the transition less intimidating. Many discover they are not alone; they’re surrounded by others on similar recovery journeys.”
Rather than prescribing rigid exercise plans, clinicians encourage patients to explore and adapt their activities, fostering independence and mirroring the experience of regular gym users. This approach aims to empower patients to maintain active lifestyles independently once their formal rehabilitation concludes.
At Fusion Gym, sessions are held daily from 1 pm to 2:30 pm, with patients scheduled in staggered half-hour appointments to allow personalized goal-setting and introductions. Approximately nine patients attend weekly in Frome, while Wincanton Sports Centre accommodates about six, with potential for expansion.
“The generosity of Fusion Gym and Wincanton Sports Centre in offering free space is invaluable,” Vicky added. “There’s no fee for patients or the NHS, but some patients may opt for gym memberships if they wish to continue on their own. We’re grateful for the community support that makes this possible.”
The program also offers social benefits, fostering connections among participants. “Interacting with peers facing similar challenges creates a supportive network that extends beyond exercise,” Vicky noted.
Sophie from Wincanton Sports Centre expressed enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are proud to open our doors to support community health. By working with healthcare professionals, we better understand and serve the diverse needs of our members. Our aim is to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and inspired to stay active long-term.”
This initiative is part of Somerset NHS Foundation Trust’s broader strategy to encourage self-management and sustained well-being among patients. It is delivered in partnership with the Somerset Activity and Sports Partnership, reinforcing community collaboration in healthcare.