Isala Meppel is a movement-focused hospital and is fully designed to encourage movement. On every floor there are special exercise spaces where patients can go independently or under supervision, and Bike Labyrinth is also available there. In the Isala hospital in Zwolle movement is also very important, and Annabel regularly invites new patients there to join her exercise groups. “I supervise about eight to ten groups, divided across both locations, with patients from the same department,” Annabel explains.

Starting an exercise group

“When I start a new exercise group, I often first see a group that is waiting to see what will happen,” Annabel explains. “Patients find it exciting and do not really know what to expect. That is why I reassure them and explain that everything is completely voluntary.” On the ward patients already regularly exercise with a physiotherapist, but Isala also offers additional moments of movement with Annabel. “After some time you see the group quickly become more relaxed. Patients experience the contact with each other as very valuable.”

Focus on what is still possible

Annabel wants to take patients out of the daily routine of the hospital as much as possible and show them what is still possible. “My motto is always: we are going to look at what is still possible,” she says.

Cycling together virtually

In addition to the exercise groups, Annabel also offers the possibility for patients to exercise in the exercise space. She takes patients one by one or in small groups to cycle together with Bike Labyrinth. “I let them cycle in pairs: one on Bike Labyrinth and one on the exercise bike next to it. Often patients are of the same age and come from the same area. That immediately creates a connection.”

Social contact

“Recently a patient came across his neighbour while cycling with Bike Labyrinth,” Annabel says. “He immediately told everyone and even sent a photo to his neighbour.”
Annabel sees how Bike Labyrinth contributes to social contact between patients. “It is an accessible way to start a conversation with each other. Patients also make jokes with each other, such as ‘I have headwind’ or ‘it helps that the sun is shining’,” she says with a smile.

Motivating each other

Not every patient joins immediately. Sometimes some extra motivation is needed. “Recently I had two patients from the neurology department. One lady really did not want to join. I eventually convinced the other one and she loved it. When we came back to the room she told the other lady that she really had to join next time. In that way patients also motivate each other.”

Virtual journeys

Bike Labyrinth not only encourages contact between patients, it also helps Annabel start a conversation. “One lady I took cycling had travelled a lot. She has been to Paramaribo for example and told me about it in great detail. I really enjoy hearing those stories, and I also learn a lot from them,” Annabel concludes.

Curious what Bike Labyrinth can mean for your patients? View this page or request more information here.