MorphFit Gentle Movement Project is a renowned physical fitness programme in Hamilton that aims to promote health and wellbeing through inclusive and accessible exercise plans and lifestyle interventions. The programme is designed for individuals of all ages who are living with health conditions, are part of the ageing population, feeling isolated, or have caregiving responsibilities.
The programme offers weekly classes that focus on chair-based exercises and, when appropriate, standing exercises. These sessions are conducted either on-site at their friendly studio in Hamilton and their satellite location in East Kilbride, or online via their digital platform. For those unfamiliar with using digital platforms, MorphFit provides step-by-step guidance to get connected.
As a social enterprise, MorphFit receives core funding for their work, but they also offer commissioned programmes for clients. Their sessions provide a wide range of health benefits, including reducing the impact of illness and chronic disease, enhancing mobility, flexibility, and balance, increasing energy levels, maintaining weight, improving sleep, boosting mood and self-confidence, improving brain function, and sustaining social connexions.
The programme has received positive feedback from participants, with one individual, Paula, mentioning that other classes and gyms can be intimidating, but she feels comfortable and included in MorphFit sessions. Another participant, Jean, expressed how the programme has improved her ability to go out both mentally and physically, allowing her to connect with new people and build friendships. Amanda highlighted that the programme has helped relieve some aches and pains caused by her breast cancer treatment.
MorphFit's work has earned them several accolades, including the 2023 Lanarkshire Business Excellence Awards for Social Impact, the 2021 VASLAN Third Sector Awards for Enterprise and Innovation, and being a finalist in the 2022 Social Enterprise Scotland Awards for Health & Social Care. Their dedication and accomplishments have also been acknowledged through motions raised in parliament by Stephanie Callaghan MSP.
The programme emphasises their care for individuals and encourages them to get in touch to join their supportive community. Their physical fitness project has made a positive impact on their community, as expressed by supporters like Hazel, who considers the programme an asset, and Paul, who sees it as a shining light in his life. Mhairi shared how the programme has turned around a difficult situation for her, and David appreciates how it gets people up and going. The class instructor, Nicola, is highly regarded and credited for attracting people to the programme.
Overall, MorphFit Gentle Movement Project offers a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for individuals of all abilities to engage in physical fitness, improve their overall wellbeing, and form meaningful social connexions.