Stay Stronger for Longer
30 March 2011
“Why not give yourself a new lease on life and join an exercise class, better still why not bring a friend?” said Western District Health Service (WDHS) Community Health Nurse, Cathy Armstrong.
Community Representative for the Shire of Southern Grampians, Councillor Albert Calvano says “Keeping life physical is important for everyone, no matter what your age.” “You may not be able to run a marathon or lift 100kgs any more, yet a gentle exercise regime will help your muscles stay strong, give you greater flexibility and help you cope a lot better with day to day living”. 
The notion that fitness is for the young is gradually becoming just a myth, thanks to WDHS. A range of classes geared to the needs of older adults, are offered at Frances Hewett Community Centre. These classes are popular, well attended and are led by qualified and experienced instructors. Classes not only keep you feeling and looking younger, but can play a vital part in reducing the risk of chronic disease.
Ms Armstrong says “It’s never too late to start. Participants can set realistic goals and start slowly” she said.
“As well as strength and cardiovascular work, flexibility and balance should also be part of any activity. With age, poor balance can make falls more likely and falls can result in painful and sometimes life-threatening hip fractures. The classes at Frances Hewett are designed to help all ages and abilities to gain the most from the program.”
The Heart Take Part class (Monday 9:15-10.00am & 10:00 to 10:45am) is a gentle introduction to exercise; Start Staying Strong (Monday 6:00 to 7:00pm and Wednesday 10:00 to11:00am) uses light weights for those who wish to increase their general strength; and Bones, Better, Best (Thursday 10:00 to 11:00am) is a class which helps maintain and build on strength needed for every day tasks.”
Whilst getting a good workout is paramount, fun is also high on the list of class ‘must haves’. When asked what the class meant to those taking part, answers varied from “the first day is the worst day” and “gets you out of your comfort zone” to “laughter all the way – come and exercise your insides as well as your outsides”.
“Participants in our classes enjoy the experience, which not only increases their fitness levels, but is a pleasant social occasion. Regular attendance at any one of these programs has enabled many to regain or retain previously lost abilities, which will be of great benefit in ‘all’ their years”, said Ms Armstrong.
For Further information on class times and content, contact Frances Hewett Community Centre on 555 18450
Photo Caption: Throw the Ball
KEEPING active – participants in the Start Staying Stronger class run by WDHS are joined by Cr Albert Calvano ( Top ) as they workout with Instructor Jenny Lane ( obscured by Cr Calvano ), and Physical Activity Program coordinator Cathy Armstrong (Far Left ). Activity is the key to Staying Stronger for Longer.
Photo Caption: Stronger Longer Group
KEEPING active – participants in the Start Staying Stronger class run by WDHS are joined by Cr Albert Calvano ( Below ) as they workout with Instructor Jenny Lane ( Far Right ), and Physical Activity Program coordinator Cathy Armstrong (Rear 5th from the Right). Activity is the key to Staying Stronger for Longer.