The second REPs Welsh Convention held in Cardiff recently focused on the development of exercise referral programmes and increasing participation in physical activity.

A room packed with over 100 delegates heard presentations on cardiac disease, working with frailer older adults and the importance of exercise professionals understanding client motivation and monitoring behavioural change.

Held at the Esporta Cardiff Club, Elaine McNish gave an update on the Welsh National Exercise Referral Scheme which has already seen a significant inward investment in training and development for REPs members.

Kieran Harris reported on the Sports Council for Wales enterprise opportunities and invited bids for funding to help get more people exercising.

The day started early with delegates participating in a special practical session led by Sara Wicebloom who taught some of the basics of their Later Life Training aimed at helping falls prevention.

Gwen Strong practised in cardio-respiratory nursing before becoming a tutor for BACR and explained the importance of team working in dealing with cardiac disease and emphasised the important role of exercise professionals in phase IV work.

Senior Lecturer Marie Stopforth from Southampton Solent University and a tutor with Future Fit Training presented on the psychology of working with clients to help their motivation and improvement in exercise adherence.

The Welsh Assembly Government and Sports Council for Wales help to fund and support the development of REPs and improving levels of skills.

In the past two years Wales has moved from second bottom in the UK to the top position in the percentage of members at level 3. Registrar Cliff Collins congratulated delegates on this achievement and outlined how the UK qualification structure is developing with the launch of level 4.

Elaine McNish confirmed that additional funding was going to be made available to support training at level 4 and that there was a government commitment to national referral programme until 2011.