A FITNESS coach who helped keep people active during the pandemic has received an award for his efforts.
Kyle Swankie’s bootcamp classes, children’s exercise sessions, holiday clubs, five-a-side and walking football at the recreation field in Gainford, were organised in conjunction with the village’s parish council and proved hugely popular.
As a result of his efforts in Gainford and elsewhere, Mr Swankie, who runs Swankie Sports, received a Recognition of Contribution to Public Health award from Durham County Council.
It highlighted his efforts to keep people of all ages and abilities in Gainford and surrounding villages active during the pandemic.
Throughout the Covid lock-downs Mr Swankie changed his business and developed an idea he had to provide low cost, accessible exercise sessions for children, young people and adults.
Working within the Covid-19 national guidelines at all times, he showed great resilience and flexibility, repeatedly adapting the bootcamp and other sessions to make sure that they were compliant with the rules and local public health advice.
Mr Swankie was nominated for the award by a resident from Gainford, who said: “These sessions kept us fit and active and also helped villagers meet others, helping boost people’s mental health.
“They were also fun too and helped people of all ages reach their fitness goals and enjoy the fresh air.
“He is well liked by all who attend his classes, and this has been clearly demonstrated by the vast number of people who have congratulated him on his award – both on social media and in person.”
