Persons with a chronic illness in need of regular exercise can get the help they need through the Medically Oriented Gym located at Knoxville Hospital and Clinics.

While traditional health clubs and gyms can offer facilities, classes or even trainers, the hospital’s gym focuses directly on the health needs of those participating.

Dr. Justin Plum tells KNIA/KRLS News the patients doing their therapy workouts have medical professionals on hand to help and to monitor their progress.

“The Medically Oriented Gym is supervised by our therapists; so that’s the difference between, say, our facility and going to a typical gym facility is that you’ll be supervised by medical staff. And we run the program, we set up the exercises for the individuals and we monitor how they’re doing and progress as they tolerate it,” Dr. Plum says.

Chronic conditions such as obesity and diabetes often require physical therapy, and Dr. Plum says regular exercise can help these patients improve their quality of life.

The Medically Oriented Gym is available weekdays at Knoxville Hospital and Clinics.