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A former army officer regains his strength, confidence and independence through power-assisted exercise.

Andrew Marriot was 55 years old when he suffered a stroke in 2022. His life changed dramatically. An active person who had enjoyed 22 years of service in the army, Andrew was left unable to speak and with no movement in his arms or legs. Physically incapacitated and socially isolated, Andrew was confined to home for 18 months. It wasn’t until September 2023 that he was able to use his adapted car and finally gain some independence.

Keen to get back to some form of physical activity, Andrew joined Lincs Inspire’s Active Forever exercise referral programme. He started attending the charitable trust’s Wellness Hub at Grimsby Health and Wellbeing Centre, where he used Innerva’s power-assisted exercise machines for the first time. 

Designed for older adults and people with health conditions, the equipment is particularly beneficial for those recovering from stroke. The machines provide the necessary support to help people with limited mobility to improve their muscular strength, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility as well as their balance and co-ordination – all of which are vital to long term recovery. 

“It was hopeless at first,” recalls Andrew, who initially needed a safety strap to be able to grip the machines.

The inclusivity of the space and the range of accessible equipment meant that Andrew was able to get a full body workout despite his physical impairments. Over time, the power-assisted exercise helped Andrew regain his mobility and he was eventually able to use the equipment unaided. 

Now, almost three years since his stroke Andrew is still using the Wellness Hub three times a week. Thanks to his remarkable recovery, he has also progressed to exercising in the leisure centre’s main gym and enjoys weekly circuit classes.

Photo (L-R): Jody Cass (Fitness Team), Andrew Marriott, Kieran Hough (Fitness Supervisor)

“At first, I struggled to even walk one kilometre on the treadmill, but now I’m getting up to four kilometres, and the step machine is helping me to gain strength. I was using my walking aid to get around the centre, now I barely use it at all,” he says. 

The physical benefits of the power-assisted exercise have been profound, but the social and mental impact of the Wellness Hub has been equally transformative for Andrew. Socialising can be challenging after a stroke. More than just a gym, the Wellness Hub is a social place where Andrew can connect with others and build relationships with both staff and fellow members. 

“I need to get out of the house; it’s better for my mind. When I’m at home, it’s not good as I start to over-think things,” he says.

Andrew’s ultimate goal is to return to running, but for now, he is arranging a volunteer role at Lincoln Hospital to give back to the community.

Kieran Hough, fitness supervisor for Lincs Inspire, says: “Andrew travels from outside the borough to use our facilities and has made such great progress. He has really pushed himself and the fact that he’s now using the gym and even attending classes, is a huge testament to his determination. We see Andrew every week and his dedication to exercise and his recovery has exceeded all expectations.”

For more information on Lincs Inspire and their Wellness Hub see their website.