Designed to support those at risk of heart-related conditions, as well as individuals living with or recovering from them, Healthy Hearts programme, made possible thanks to the support of the Premier League and Professional Footballers’ Association, is a 12-week healthy lifestyle programme focused on preventative care and long-term wellbeing.
Combining gentle, supervised physical activity with educational workshops covering heart health, nutrition, lifestyle changes and emotional wellbeing, the initiative provides a supportive environment for participants to develop healthier habits and build confidence in managing their health.
For 62-year-old Mark Sidwells, the programme has provided an opportunity to take positive steps towards improving his wellbeing.
As an Armed Forces veteran, double amputee and living with diabetes, Mark joined the first Healthy Hearts cohort with the aim of improving his fitness, lifestyle habits and long-term health.
Having attended consistently throughout the 12-week programme, Mark credits the educational workshops and opportunity to learn from fellow participants, “I didn’t just learn from the book or the staff - I learned from the people in the room. I got ideas I’d never tried and didn’t even know about. That’s what I found particularly good about it.”
Through the programme, Mark developed a greater awareness of how his everyday choices influence his wellbeing, adjusting his diet, sleep routine and physical activity levels.
“I’ve started paying real attention to what I put in my body. I’m more aware now”
Beyond the physical benefits, Healthy Hearts has also provided an opportunity for Mark to establish new social connections and build relationships with others on similar journeys.
Determined to maintain his progress, Mark has since enrolled on another healthy lifestyle course, increased his physical activity and set himself a realistic goal of losing half a stone over six months.
Reflecting on the wider impact of his Healthy Hearts experience, he added: “It’s made me think differently about my fitness and the way I live my life - what I eat, how I sleep, how everything connects.”
Neil Young, our Healthy Heart course lead, said “The Healthy Hearts course has proved to be such a wonderfully supportive and informative experience for our participants who are all looking for long-term ways in which they can improve their health and reduce their risk of developing debilitating conditions.”
Through practical guidance, professional support and opportunities for social interaction, AFC Wimbledon Foundation is helping participants take greater ownership of their health, establish sustainable habits and work towards realistic personal goals.