Leisure centre introduces AI to enhance services for customers

Tarka Leisure Centre in Barnstaple is expanding its support for expectant mums with the introduction of Bump Boost, a personalised aqua-natal workout programme driven by AI technology.

The programme aims to help women stay active during pregnancy, a crucial aspect of health that the NHS recommends, with at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week. 

However, a report by the Active Pregnancy Foundation found that less than 40 per cent of pregnant women feel they have the opportunity to exercise. 

Bump Boost offers a self-paced, AI-driven aqua-natal workout, designed to suit individual needs throughout the entire pregnancy. 

The personalised programme is delivered via a water-resistant tablet during class, allowing participants to follow exercises suited to their stage of pregnancy, from 0 to 40 weeks. During each session, a pre-and post-natal exercise specialist from Tarka Leisure will be on hand to guide the class and answer any questions.

Ellie Wilson-Hird, Tarka Leisure’s Fitness Manager and pre-and-post natal specialist said: “We are always looking at how we can further support the health of our community, and ensuring we have a pre-natal programme that combines both exercise and social connections is a big focus for us this year. Swimming is a really good form of exercise during pregnancy because the water helps support the increased weight, so it’s easy on the joints. Swimming is also a full body exercise including abs and core, so it will help our mums prepare their body for birth.”

Women interested in joining Bump Boost can self-refer or receive a referral from their healthcare practitioner.

After registration, they will meet with a Tarka team member to complete some screening questions and set up their personalised programme on the tablet.

Starting in February, a new evening Bump Boost class will be held every Thursday at 7pm, in addition to the current classes on Wednesdays at 12pm and Thursdays at 9am. 

Classes cost £6.50 and can be booked through the Leisure Centre App, online, or on-site.

Tarka Leisure also runs a free weekly social session every Friday at 10.30am for all GoodBoost participants, with the aim of creating a supportive community for expectant mums.

Suzanne Gabb, COO Good Boost said "We are delighted to support Tarka Leisure Centre with the launch of Bump Boost, an initiative that brings the benefits of tailored aquatic exercise to expectant mothers. Staying active during pregnancy is crucial—not only does it support physical health by improving circulation, easing joint strain, and strengthening the body for birth, but it also enhances mental wellbeing and builds a sense of community. At Good Boost, we are passionate about making exercise accessible and enjoyable for all, and by working with Tarka and the Active Pregnancy Foundation, we aim to ensure that more women can experience these transformative benefits throughout pregnancy and beyond." 

Along with the Bump Boost classes, participants will receive a free "Supporting A Healthy Pregnancy Guide" that includes the latest NHS advice on maintaining a healthy pregnancy.