Active Adults
Movement for Health
Movement for Health is a programme funded through ACC and run by Sport Southland. It is a 20 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.
Dates & Venues
| Hearing Association 126 Leet Street, Invercargill Monday and Thursday at 9.30am - 10.15am |
Awarua Social & Health Services Cnr Forth & Ness Streets, Invercargill Monday and Thursday at 10.30am - 11.15am |
| Rosedale Bible Chapel 1 Cnr Exmouth & Bourke Streets, Invercargill Monday and Thursday at 11.30am - 12.15pm |
Rosedale Bible Chapel 2 Cnr Exmouth & Bourke Streets, Invercargill Monday and Thursday at 12.30pm - 1.15pm |
| Central Southland Presbyterian Church, Winton Meldrum Street, Winton Monday and Wednesday at 9.30am - 10.15am |
Senior Citizens Rooms, Riverton Cnr Bath and Princess Street, Riverton Tuesday and Thursday at 10.00am - 11.15am |
| James Cumming Wing, Gore Ardwick Street, Gore Monday and Wednesday at 10.00am - 10.15am |
For more information please contact our Active Communities Team on 03 2112150
