Press Release

Tuesday 8th April 2008

Help older people keep fit and active

Fareham Borough Council’s Strategy for Older People is a new plan highlighting how we will encourage and help older residents to remain independent and enjoy life. Gentle exercise helps people to keep active as well as providing other benefits including improved posture; mood, sleep patterns, and digestion. Strong muscles and flexible joints also reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls.

With this in mind, a course is being held in September 2008, to train instructors to lead seated exercises to older people. Run by qualified tutors from the Keep Fit Association, the course will cover a variety of topics including the ageing process, and practical instruction on leading exercise classes. No previous experience is necessary as the training covers everything you need to know.

The course costs £200 and will be delivered 1 day per week for 10 weeks, with all equipment, registration and assessments included. 14 places are available on a first come, first served basis. If you are a voluntary scheme or organisation wanting to get involved, course costs could be subsidised.

Sessions are beneficial for groups and establishments that are involved in the care of older people, with topics such as preventing falls and the ageing process being covered.

For more information or to book a place on the training please contact Emma Barrett, Health and Well-being Officer on 01329 236100.

Director for Customer Services, Martyn George, said: “These courses are an excellent opportunity for people to become involved with helping older residents in the borough keep fit and maintain their mobility. Courses are taught by qualified tutors with each participant receiving the Keep Fit Association Certificate in Teaching and Movement.”

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For Further Information Contact:

Michael Langton, Communications Support Officer, tel: 01329 824416