Wellness UnLAOISed

‘Wellness unLAOISed’ is a 12-week, evidence-based online programme that combines exercise, nutrition, and health education specifically for adults experiencing economic, social, and/or educational disadvantage. Recognising the lower rates of physical activity and higher incidence of poor health outcomes in disadvantaged populations, the programme was designed to be accessible, inclusive, and tailored to participants’ specific needs.

From September 2021 to September 2022, EduFIT in partnership with Laois Sports Partnership and funded by Sport Ireland piloted the first ‘Wellness unLAOISed’ programme with technology partners Anitech Solutions. Following extensive testing and evaluation with users, EduFIT and Laois Sports Partnership were delighted to be supported again in 2024 by the Sport Ireland Innovation Fund, and our new partners, Offaly Sports Partnership.

To date, 265 participants living in Laois and Offaly have completed ‘Wellness UnLAOISed’. We are looking forward to delivering this programme across Ireland.

What is involved in the ‘Wellness UnLAOISed’ programme for participants?

Each week includes two live, online 60-minute multimodal exercise classes focusing on aerobic fitness, strength, balance, and flexibility. It also includes a 20-minute live exercise education workshop and a 60-minute nutrition and/or health education or cooking session, all of which are recorded and available on-demand via a custom-built app. Participants are supported through weekly contact via the app, and receive resources like QR-coded exercise cards and weekly recipes. This programme may also available in-person or through a hybrid format combining on-site and online delivery.

What are the benefits of the ‘Wellness UnLAOISed’ programme?

The benefits of the ‘Wellness UnLAOISed’ programme include improved:

Physical activity participation.
Upper body strength, endurance and power.
Lower body strength, endurance and power.
Cardiovascular fitness.
Balance.
Mobility and Quality of Life.
Wellbeing.
Perceived Physical Health.
Perceived Mental Health.

Beyond measurable health outcomes, the programme helped participants co-create a scalable, custom-built exercise, nutrition, and health education model aligned with their needs. The programme addressed multiple barriers to participation such as cost, access, and digital literacy by delivering content in an engaging and supportive online format. The success of the programme is evident in the positive written, audio, and video testimonials shared by participants (please see below) and its continued support from national bodies like Sport Ireland.

How is the ‘‘Wellness UnLAOISed’ programme delivered?

The ‘Wellness unLAOISed’ programme is delivered entirely online through a custom-built mobile app, making it highly accessible for adults in disadvantaged communities who may face barriers to in-person participation. The programme uses live, interactive sessions each week, including exercise classes, short education workshops, and practical health or cooking lessons which are all recorded for flexible, on-demand access. This digital delivery model takes advantage of the widespread use of mobile devices among the target group, ensuring participants can engage at a time and pace that suits them. Ongoing support is provided through regular communication via the app, email, or phone. This programme may also available in-person or through a hybrid format combining on-site and online delivery.

Please contact Dr Diane Cooper via email info@edufit.ie if you are interested in this programme.