Fitness for older residents
14 March 2007
The myth that fitness is for the young is gradually fading in Hamilton, thanks to the Western District Health Service.
The message that regular exercise can reduce the risk of chronic disease and keep you feeling and looking younger is being heard by quite a few Hamilton residents.
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.
WDHS has a variety of gentle exercise classes which are held at the Frances Hewett Community Centre, catering for all levels of fitness.
“I have been coming to Bones, Better Best classes since they began six years ago,” Hamilton’s Eunice McTaggart said. “You too could look as good as us at 80!”
Willy Donkers agrees. “It makes me feel fitter and I enjoy being part of the group. I look forward to the class every week,” she said.
It’s never too late to start and classes at Frances Hewett include:
- Heart Take Part (Mondays 9.15-10.45am), which is a gentle introduction to exercise
- Start Staying Strong (Monday 6-7pm and Wednesday 10-11am), exercise using light weights for those who wish to increase their general strength
- Bones, Better, Best (Thursday 10-11am), a class which helps maintain and build on strength needed for every day tasks.
All classes are led by VicFit qualified and experienced instructors Jenny Lane, Pam Pollock and Pat Cameron.
Participant Julie Gustus said the class was designed so that we work every part of the body and that was such a benefit.
“I really notice the difference when I return after a break.”
Joyce Howlett says she looks forward to the class every week.
“I enjoy the exercise and the social side of it as well.”
According to WDHS community Health Nurse Cathy Armstrong, 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 an exercise program.
Think of movement is 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 Cathy on 5551 8450.