Project title: Healthy Hearts with Vibe Life
Region: Denbigh, Wales
Award amount: £10,259.06
Date: September 2024 – April 2025
Denbighshire has a high prevalence of heart disease among residents, where one in four deaths are heart related. Heart and circulatory diseases in Denbighshire cause 28 deaths each month, with someone dying every 26 hours. A recent survey among Denbigh residents revealed that 73% of respondents who are physically inactive recognise the importance of increasing their physical activity, with 55% expressing a desire to commit to an exercise routine.
Healthy Hearts with Vibe Life targeted individuals aged 45 to 75 who were at an increased risk of heart disease due to factors such as smoking, obesity, poor diet and physical inactivity. Vibe Life ran two, 8-week cohorts which included sessions such as indoor Vibe Concept classes, outdoor physical activity sessions, health promotion sessions and cooking skills workshops. This project aimed to combat health inequalities by delivering tailored exercise classes and lifestyle guidance to the community. All sessions were led by experienced instructors and healthcare professionals, including a resident Heart Failure Advanced Clinical Practitioner. The exercise classes offered through this program went beyond traditional workouts by making fitness more enjoyable and accessible for all. They used the Vibe style of workouts which are more upbeat and fun whilst still being adaptable and inclusive for all abilities.
This Healthy Heart Grants project managed to collect data on health measures from 20 participants. Many of those saw reductions in blood pressure, BMI, weight and NHS heart age. Improvements in Q risk score and the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale were also seen. As well as this, participants built confidence, increased their energy levels and now report having a healthier mindset. Several beneficiaries of the project have signed up to continue receiving exercise sessions from Vibe Life and all said they are going to continue with their new active lifestyles.
“This was the kickstart I needed. I’ve reversed serious health risks, lost 10kg, and joined a gym with my sister.”
“It made me feel alive again. I started off feeling low and unmotivated. Now I’ve got more energy, confidence, and a better mindset.”