Three Charnwood leisure centres are offering free blood pressure checks as part of Know Your Numbers Week, the UK's biggest blood pressure testing and awareness event, which takes place between 7th and 13th September.

The sessions are being run by Loughborough Leisure Centre, Soar Valley Leisure Centre and South Charnwood Leisure Centre in partnership with Leisure Solutions Community Trust and Serco Leisure.

Session times

  • Loughborough Leisure Centre – 10th September – 11am to 1pm
  • Soar Valley Leisure Centre – 9th September – 9am to 11am
  • South Charnwood Leisure Centre – 9th September – 2pm to 4pm

Know Your Numbers Week forms part of Blood Pressure Awareness Week and is organised by the charity Blood Pressure UK.

To help ensure an accurate reading, participants are advised to stay well hydrated on the day of the test and wear loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the upper arm. Anyone who has had a mastectomy, is pregnant, or has any medical condition that could affect their reading should inform the member of staff carrying out the test.

Although everyone can benefit from knowing their blood pressure, it is particularly important for adults aged 40 and over, who should aim to have theirs checked at least once a year.

High blood pressure is often called the 'silent killer' because it can have no symptoms, so regular checks are really important. By offering free blood pressure checks at our centres, we're making it easier for local people to keep on top of their health. I would encourage anyone who hasn't had their blood pressure checked recently to take advantage of this free service. It only takes a few minutes and could make a real difference to your long-term health and wellbeing.

Matt Smith, Contract Manager for Leisure Solutions Community Trust, said this.

It is great people visiting the leisure centres during this year's Know Your Numbers Week will be able to get their blood pressure checked. This is an example of the important role the centres play in our community to help people stay active and healthy. We should all be keeping a check on our health and wellbeing and I would encourage residents to take up this free opportunity.

Councillor Anne Gray, Charnwood Borough Council's Lead Member for Waste, Open Spaces and Leisure Facilities, added this.

Understanding your reading

As a general guide, an ideal blood pressure reading is below 120/80 mmHg. A reading of 140/90 mmHg or above is usually considered high and should be discussed with a healthcare professional. People who receive elevated readings will be advised on appropriate next steps, including speaking to their GP or healthcare professional.