Sophie Morgan has become a familiar face on television screens in recent years and is one of the first female TV presenters with a physical disability. Appearing on Loose Women and her new show: Living Wild, How to Change your Life, Sophie has also forged a career as a writer and producer.
In her spare time, Sophie enjoys riding around on her adapted motorbike, and keeping healthy is a large part of her lifestyle. We caught up with Sophie to talk about how she keeps fit, gym accessibility and a newly opened accessible gym she regularly attends
What do you typically do to look after your health?
I find having a routine is tricky for my overall lifestyle, but I do try to focus on having a balanced diet and fit in exercise where I can. Having a long-term disability means my health can and does change, so looking after my body is a priority.
Is exercise an important part of your routine?
It is but my job takes me on the road a lot so fitting in time for a workout can be a struggle! I try to do some cardio work every week and use my weights daily; I have my own weights that I carry with me wherever I go, which I find really helpful for maintaining exercise whilst I’m on the road. Having a disability does make exercise more difficult so having the right guidance, access to equipment and spaces is essential.
What is accessibility like in gyms?
Pretty bad! I think some gyms need to get the basics right first, wheelchair access should be the norm, but it isn’t in many places. Often gyms don’t have the right equipment, or staff to handle people living with a disability. Then when spaces are more accessible they tend to be really sterile and clinical. This is what sets VIM Health and their accessible gym, apart from the rest.
Can you tell us a bit more about what makes VIM Health so special? How was your recent visit?
Incredible. Being able to visit a gym that was completely geared towards people with disabilities is brilliant, I would love to see gyms of this standard in more places around the country. The gym is run by physiotherapists, has equipment that works for everyone and is designed so beautifully. It’s such a game changer for me, and it’s why I keep going back.
They have a monthly gym membership, which allows members to come as frequently as they like. They also have a great booking system which prevents the space from getting overcrowded and ensures that a physio can be on hand for those who need it. The space really is one of a kind, the pictures don’t do it justice, you have to see it and feel it for yourself.
Are there any pieces of equipment you enjoyed using?
Yes! The SkiErg is my favourite for cardio! I’ve used one before and think it’s amazing. Pairing it with the REX for a personal training session is great. The REX is an exoskeleton that allows me to be upright and weight bearing, which is great for increasing circulation and strengthening bones.
I also use their app which has my own tailored exercise plan. This is a great way for me to keep on top of what I am doing. It allows them to monitor and change my plan remotely which is super helpful as I am on the road so much.
I have to mention the Lyra machine that they have at VIM! It’s a robotic gait trainer which allows you to replicate walking whilst your body weight is supported by a harness.. That was cool and not something you will find in any other gym!
How can other gyms be more inclusive?
I think perhaps the environment and culture can have a big impact on how inclusive a gym feels. Many people feel nervous going to a gym for the first time, so an overall atmosphere of inclusivity really helps. That’s something VIM have got right with their gym – as well as having great access, accessible equipment, and trained staff, the environment just feels inclusive and welcoming.
VIM Gym – making a difference
VIM Gym is a new type of accessible and inclusive gym featuring specialist equipment and healthcare professionals on hand to support gym goers. Situated in Mid Sussex, VIM is open to anybody looking for a different type of gym experience, at standard gym membership prices. VIM Health is also just downstairs and offers a wide range of therapy services supported by a combination of robotic technology you can’t find anywhere else in the UK.
