Thanks to the generosity of the Eastbourne and South Wealden Branch of the Multiple Sclerosis Society a new NuStep Recumbent Cross Trainer has been purchased for the Physiotherapy Department at Eastbourne DGH.
This donation continues more than 20 years of close collaboration between the Branch and the Neuro-physiotherapy Outpatient Team. Over the years, the Branch has supported the community by helping to establish the Friday evening MS gym sessions, funding specialist equipment such as the Theratrainer (an active/passive cycle for people with higher levels of disability), contributing to staff training, and promoting the importance of exercise in managing MS symptoms.
The NuStep Recumbent Cross Trainer is a highly versatile and accessible piece of equipment. It can be used by people undergoing high-level rehabilitation as well as wheelchair users who are able to transfer onto it. With its wide range of adjustments and resistance levels, it offers safe and effective strengthening, mobility and cardiovascular workouts for people of all ages and abilities.
Although funded to support people with MS, the machine benefits many others too. It is used across Musculoskeletal, Cardiac and Vascular/Amputee Services, as well as within Neuro-physiotherapy. Patients consistently give positive feedback, noting that it feels like conventional gym equipment.
The arrival of a second cross trainer has already made a noticeable difference during the Friday gym sessions, enabling more people to take part. The new model even includes video features, recent virtual “trips” have taken users through Bruges, Australia and Singapore.
Peter Austin, MS Branch Support Officer and mainstream Editor, said: “When the Multiple Sclerosis Branch was bequeathed a sum by a member, we discussed options with Neuro-physiotherapist, Debbie Soave, who highlighted the need for a second Recumbent Cross Trainer in the gym. We have been delighted, therefore, to fund this, enabling more people to make use of this beneficial piece of equipment.”
Natasha Tuck, newly appointed Team Lead for ESHT Neuro-physiotherapy Outpatients, added: “We are delighted to have a second Cross Trainer available for our Neuro-Rehab sessions and would like to say a huge thank you to the Branch for their generosity.
“Exercise is incredibly important for maintaining strength and fitness in MS, but it can become harder to achieve when mobility or fatigue worsen. For those with higher levels of disability, more specialist equipment and support are essential, and the Recumbent Cross Trainer and Theratrainer bikes make this possible. I look forward to continuing our partnership with the Branch to further improve local services for people with Multiple Sclerosis.”