Mavis Mason has been attending the Movement for Health exercise classes since August of last year. Run by Sport Southland, these classes are designed to improve balance and co-ordination and also aim to reduce the incidence of elderly falls. Since attending the classes, Mavis has progressed significantly in the areas of muscle strength, endurance and an improved sense of confidence in her own ability. Read on as Mavis writes about her experiences. (Photo of Mavis at class)
"I have gained a lot through going to these classes and most who go are people who have body pain, and some come after surgery, strokes and accidents. We have learned it is OK if we cannot do everything on the exercise programme, but to give things a go. Previously I was having physiotherapy which was excellent for me, but I had to move on so others could go. For five years after that I was not sure what to do or where to go to get help. I heard about these classes through another family member who had a Green Prescription and decided to join. Even though my balance is still not the best my confidence has improved greatly.
When I am in the garden now I am able to stretch and use my back with less pain. My strength is so much better in my legs and arms and I don't have to heave myself out of a chair. These classes are very meaningful to me and I work my life around them - plus my family knows if I haven't done them!
We meet twice a week and encourage each other to stay active, we are learning to grow old gracefully. When I come away from class, I feel on top of everything. But don't expect instant recovery, you have to re-adjust your life around your problems. Thanks Sport Southland!"
