In Tunbridge Wells, septuagenarians are leading the way, with figure showing that those aged 70-74 are the most active.

New research released yesterday shows those in the age group are visiting gyms in the area six times per month, on average.

While over 65s have historically been considered the least likely age group to exercise, the figures for Tunbridge Wells mirror a UK trend of the older the member, the more frequently they visit the gym.

The information provides a snapshot of the lifestyles of older people in the region, and the need for healthcare programmes which allow them to stay active.

In light of the findings, Nuffield Health’s Tunbridge Wells Hospital and Gym, have joined forces to launch an recovery programme for surgical patients, in order to improve long-term fitness and wellbeing for people living and working in the region, and to get people fit, active and healthy following traumatic operations.

The Recovery Plus program – a combination of personalised and focused rehabilitation, nutrition and exercise – is aimed at people who have undergone surgery for procedures like hip and knee replacement, spinal surgeries, as well as helping women recover more quickly from major gynaecological surgery like hysterectomy.

Nuffield Health doctors say older patients, or those in poor general health could benefit significantly from the prolonged care, and that the initiative provides a “community stepping stone” from hospital to help people cope with the difficulties of adjusting to daily routine following illness or injury.

Consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Nuffield Health Tunbridge Wells Hospital, Mr Paul Gibb said: “Many patients who come in for surgery have been living with reduced fitness and mobility. This contributes to related illnesses,like obesity or high blood pressure.

"Once the surgery has been carried out, patients often return to the sedentary lifestyle they were leading before the surgery because they feel vulnerable,have lost confidence, or have just lost the habit of being active.

"We hope that this enhanced rehabilitation programme will optimises the recovery process for patients, and actually get them to a better level of health and fitness than before they entered the hospital."

Recovery Plus is free to self-funding surgical patients of any age, if considered suitable by a surgeon.