We all know that most of us can be more active. Now you have the opportunity to attend structured classes supervised by a fitness instructor for no cost. Timboon and District Healthcare Service views this as an investment in our community as we understand that prevention is better than cure. People often slow down their exercise and activity levels because they grow older. In fact there is much evidence to suggest that we feel older because we stop being active!
People are motivated to exercise for many different reasons. Perhaps you wish to:
- aim to undertake the accepted 30 minutes of exercise each day to prevent lifestyle diseases
- improve your strength to make activities of daily living easier
- improve your balance to prevent falls
- attend a structured class for continued motivation to exercise
- get out of the house and meet up with like-minded people
- challenge yourself mentally as well as physically
- build on rehabilitation from surgery or injury
- loosen up stiff joints
- actively relax
- improve the symptoms of arthritis
- lose weight
- feel fitter!
No matter what your reason to increase your activity level, we aim to offer a variety of programs to match your motivation.
What happens when you come to the classes?
In consultation with Timboon and District Healthcare Service (TDHS) staff, you discuss your current fitness and health status. Areas to improve are identified and an appropriate program suggested. This may range from training independently, as part of a group, or in consultation with the physiotherapist.
Your individual needs are central to this process, and ongoing assessment is available whether formal or informal. You choose which exercise approach works for you. Options available to you include cardio circuit, balance skills, hand-held weights, resistance-band workout, tai chi, pilates exercises, exercise with the fitball, flexibility, and relaxation.
Please contact our Reception on 5558 6000 to check availability, the intake process, any fees applicable and to book an appointment.
BODY BALANCE
This 8-week course aims to reduce the risk of falls by providing assessment, information and exercise that improves strength and balance. Based on the NoFalls exercise program, clients are referred by health professionals and are assessed for falls risk. After each 1-hour exercise and activity session, 30 minutes of education and discussion follows. Exercises are taught to participants who are encouraged to follow a home program and attend other exercise classes provided by TDHS. This short course provides a good opportunity to introduce clients to the range of exercise classes and thus encouraging a weekly commitment to exercise for health.
STRENGTH TRAINING
Originally based on the Powerpals community program, two sessions are offered during the week. They are self-paced with participants working through a series of three upper and three lower body exercises complemented with other activities to make the sessions approximately one hour in duration. Programs are written to work towards the aims of the participants. This time is ideal for those wishing to have specific needs met with one-on-one support if required.
CIRCUIT TRAINING
This twice-weekly session is for people who enjoy exercising with others. A typical session includes a 10-station aerobic circuit, followed by stretching and strength training. We finish up with 10 minutes of guided relaxation. Other activities in all these sessions include using a pulley machine, exercise bike, treadmill, fit ball and Pilates and balance exercises.
TAI CHI
This well-known gentle exercise can be of great benefit to the older adult. Positive outcomes include preventing falls, increased flexibility and strength, particularly in regards to posture, improvement to concentration and focus. The forms studied are Sun 73 and Tai Chi for Arthritis, developed by a Sydney GP and endorsed by Arthritis Victoria. Three classes are currently running from beginners to many years experienced and are consistently attended. Age of participants ranges from 46 to 83.
GENTLE EXERCISE
This group class is the lowest-impact of all the classes, focusing on functional movements and mobility. Most exercises are chair-based, yet clients are encouraged to complete a mobility circuit during the class time. Strength training does play a role in this class, as does relaxation and tai chi, but the motivating force for most participants is the social interaction. The end of class cuppa is very important! Community transport plays an important role to keep participants attending.
