“I was referred to Tenby leisure centre gym sessions in May 2025 following knee replacement surgery in late December 2024, after an initial consultation with Tom Delaney, I started at the gym in June, I was a little apprehensive as I've never been into sports or exercise and being over 60, the gym was well out of my comfort zone, but as I'd been given the opportunity the least I could do was give it a try.
I was relieved to find other older people with similar surgeries to me so I didn't feel embarrassed about my level of fitness at all,
I found the group atmosphere and Tom's support extremely encouraging, and as a result I've just completed my last ners g.p referral session, however I feel so much better for going to the sessions, not just physically but also my mental health has really benefited, that I've joined the gym and plan to continue going regularly, and that's something I never thought I'd say.
I would wholeheartedly recommend taking up the offer of a place on the scheme, it really can be lifechanging.”
NERS Initiative
Tracey
Wayne
"They have been really instrumental in his recovery after his stroke.
His mobility, balance and coordination has really improved to a level we really thought he would never achieve.
Without your help, amazing knowledge and passion not to mention your endless patience and commitment. I don't know where we would have been.
Attending your classes on a weekly basis, mixing with other people in the same boat has also really helped his mental state.
The psychological effects after a stone are not really talked about much. Attending has really helped Wayne to feel he's not alone.
We really want to thank you for all you have done, and let you know how much we value your classes. We are so thankful they exist and what they have done for Wayne's recovery.”
Ann
“I joined the scheme around August 2024 after aortic valve replacement surgery in June 2024.
I was always a pretty fit person due to having dogs and walking a lot . My nature is that I am always on the go. My heart condition came as a surprise to me as I had no symptoms and as it turned out I was born with a Bicuspid Congenital Aortic Valve which they found during my surgery.
I had no preconceived ideas before the rehabilitation consultation as I was open to what was being offered. The consultation was positive an enlightening as to what could be achieved after this major surgery. I was given time to ask any questions which might have worried me regarding the healing process.
When I first started the exercise referral class I was weaker than I thought. I was tired after classes and quite slow. As each week went on I achieved more and could feel myself get stronger. I received huge support and advice from the cardiac nurse and our trainer.
I know it might be difficult for some people to make the effort to attend these classes, but i am convinced that they are invaluable in changing ones attitude to our health. The medical checks on our blood pressure and heart rate etc in the first part of this program were so reassuring . I cannot recommend this programme enough.”
Lee
“When I first attended my initial consultation back in February for the referral exercise scheme, I was honestly really nervous. I wasn’t sure what to expect and had doubts about whether I’d even be able to keep up.
But despite the nerves, I left that session feeling hopeful — something about it felt promising. I knew I had to make a change, and this felt like the right place to start.
In those early weeks, I was really unfit. Even simple movements left me short of breath, and my energy levels were low. It was hard not to feel discouraged at first, but the support and guidance from Tom kept me going.
Fast forward to now — 16 weeks later — and I can’t believe how far I’ve come. I feel so much better in myself, both physically and mentally. My fitness has improved massively, my energy levels are up, and I just feel more motivated in general. Day-to-day tasks feel easier, and I’ve noticed such a positive difference in my mood and confidence.
If you’re considering joining a referral exercise programme and you’re unsure or nervous like I was, I can’t recommend it enough.
Just want to say a big thankyou to Tom for the encouragement throughout the programme and making me feel confident to come to him with any problems or concerns”
David
“I was referred to the NERS programme by my Physiotherapist to work on strengthening my knees & ankle joints which had become painful through worsening arthritis. My mobility had become very much reduced such that I could no longer walk my dogs & had difficulty & pain especially on slopes, steps, and stairs.
The initial consultation & assessment with Tom was relaxed, efficient, & I felt I was listened to, understood & working with someone who would help me get the most from the course. I set & agreed my objectives, and committed myself to complete the 16 weeks to see what improvements might be achievable.
2 days later I was back at the gym with Tom introducing me to the various machines to begin my exercising regime. Having not done any gym work for about 3 years it was good to have expert guidance to get me confident on the equipment, & set ups. It was also encouraging to be among others on the NERS programme, all at different levels of ability & with their own goals to work at.
I enjoyed the programme more as the weeks passed. So much so that I completed some independent extra gym sessions as well as those within the NERS timetable.
So, after 16 weeks I’m now signed off the course. So how do I feel about what it’s done for me? I’ve achieved all my goals set with Tom at the outset.
My legs are stronger, and supporting my knees & ankle better. I can walk further with much less pain than 4 months ago. The real bonus is that I feel much fitter & stronger overall. My BP which has always been a bit variable has remained stable as has my weight.”