Active Adults
Movement for Health
Movement for Health is a programme funded through ACC and run by Sport Southland. It is a 16 week course provided twice per week and is free to participants aged 65 years and over. Movement for Health is currently running at four locations in Invercargill and also two in Gore with great success.
Movement for Health is designed specifically for those aged 65 years and older and is aimed at improving balance, co-ordination and muscle strength as well as reducing the risk of having a fall. The programme is based on a modified version of Tai Chi which studies have shown to improve:
- Muscle strength which is important for supporting and protecting joints
- Flexibility which is important to enable people to move easier and facilitate circulation of body fluid and blood
- Fitness which is important for overall functioning of the heart, lungs, and muscles.
- Posture which provides correct alignment of the spine
Participants have shown definite improvements in not only their balance and strength but also increased confidence levels in their own capabilities. Mavis Mason, a participant in the programme shares her experiences of Movement for Health. 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.
"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.
Bluff Classes
After 16 weeks of ACC funded Modified Tai Chi and exercises the group of Bluff participants were thrilled with their achievements. Many stated that they have regained their independence, and feel so much more able to complete daily tasks on their own and walk with confidence again. Movement for Health Modified Tai chi are strength and balance classes specifically designed and structured for those people 65 years plus who have a history of falling or are deemed at risk of falling. It’s amazing what these exercises can do and on completion of the classes some people have taken up aqua jogging, or joined the Sport Southland Active Walkers ‘Kiwi Seniors’ group, others have taken up bowls, dancing and leisure marching.
A large percentage of participants have stated that they are breathing easier, that their arthritis is not so painful and the posture and balance has really improved. Sport Southland will be implementing classes in the following areas starting in August – Riverton, Otautau, Winton, Gore, Wyndham, Otatara, and 4 Invercargill classes. New classes start again in August and if you would like to become part of these life changing classes, then please contact Ann Robbie at Sport Southland to register your interest and discuss classes
New Classes start in August!
For more information please contact our Active Lifestyles Team on 03 2112150
