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Mahurangi residents aged 65 and over are being encouraged to join a series of leg strength and balance exercise classes, aimed at reducing the risk of falling.
The classes are being coordinated by Harbour Sport and are available in Snells Beach, Matakana, Warkworth, Point Wells, Leigh and Wellsford.
The classes have been tailored to meet a mix of ability levels, from low intensity to intermediate, and classes for participants who have a good level of fitness and mobility.
“Falling over shouldn’t be considered part of the normal ageing process, but as we grow older, underlying conditions or problems with balance, strength or mobility do increase the risk of falling,” community strength and balance administrator Anna Simons says.
“The good news is that regular leg strength and balance exercise can reduce the risk of falling by up to 30 percent.”
Classes will be developed to suit the needs of the communities they serve. While some communities may like dance classes to music, others may prefer to exercise in a quiet space.
Simons assures people that they won’t have to wear lycra or special clothing.
“Classes will be run by people in your community for people in your community. Comfortable clothes that you can move in, and flat, comfortable shoes should be the only prerequisite.”
Each class will be required to incorporate exercises that reduce falls and meet a set of nine assessment criteria.
“And people don’t need to worry about keeping up – although these classes may make you breathe a little harder, they won’t involve any exercises that could do you harm.”
Harbour Sport is also offering in-home strength and balance support if a person can’t attend community group strength and balance classes because of physical limitations.
“Talk to your GP or health professional for more information about in-home support.”
Simons says improving core strength and balance helps to reduce the risk of a fall, thereby avoiding fractures and possible brain injury. Classes are an affordable way to build strength and coordination.
Click here for the full schedule of local classes, levels and contact details.
