Active Cavendish goes from strength to strength
27 March 2008
Cavendish residents are combining a chance to exercise with the opportunity to socialise, as part of their Active Cavendish program.
The Active Cavendish participant numbers have gone from ‘strength to strength’ this year, thanks to support from Western District Health Service which has resulted in a new exercise program.
Fitness instructor Julia Booth has started delivering Strength to Strength classes for Active Cavendish, and according to WDHS Community Health Nurse Cathy Armstrong “the participants love attending and Julia is great”.
The myth that fitness is for the young is gradually fading in Cavendish and Hamilton, thanks to WDHS, Ms Armstrong said.
“Quite a few residents are hearing the message that regular exercise can reduce the risk of chronic disease and keep you feeling, and looking, younger.
“But our older people, who are not performing the recommended amount of daily exercise, can take heart, the health service is providing plenty of options catering for all levels of fitness – in Cavendish and at Frances Hewett Community Centre in Hamilton,” she said.
It’s never too late to start, Ms Armstrong said. Classes at Frances Hewett include Heart Take Part, which is a gentle introduction to exercise; Start Staying Strong , exercise using light weights for those who wish to increase their general strength; and Bones, Better, Best a class which helps maintain and build on strength needed for every day tasks.
The Strength to Strength class at Cavendish takes place on Monday at 10am during school terms.
All classes are led by registered, qualified and experienced instructors, Julia Booth, Jenny Lane, and Pat Cameron.
One participant at Cavendish said the class was designed so to work every part of the body, which was a benefit.
“I really notice the difference when I return after a break, and I enjoy the exercise and the social side of it as well,” she said.
Ms Armstrong said participants should set realistic goals. “Start slowly and don’t overdo it. As well as strength and cardiovascular work, flexibility and balance should also be part of your exercise regime.”
“With age, poor balance can make falls more likely and falls can result in painful and sometimes life-threatening hip fractures,” she said.
Ms Armstrong said there were a number of key points to remember when considering starting
- Think of movement as an opportunity not an inconvenience
- Be active everyday in as many ways as you can
- Put together at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on most, preferably all days of the week
- If you can, also enjoy some regular vigorous exercise for extra health and fitness
- Why not give yourself a new lease on life and join a class, better still why not bring a friend?
More information can be obtained by ringing 555 18450.
Caption: Active Cavendish participants are being led in a Strength to Strength class by Julia Booth, thanks to support from Western District Health Service.