Project goal encouraging over 50s to be active

A project aimed at helping the over-50s to stay fit and active is now offering sessions across South Lanarkshire.

Devised by the council’s Seniors Together team, it will be delivered by their volunteers and the Forward @fifty project.

Events run weekly in Larkhall, Blantyre, Uddingston, Carluke and Hamilton as follows: Active Tuesday, 9.30-11.30am, Blantyre Leisure Centre; Active Wednesday, 9.30-11.30am, Larkhall Leisure Centre; Active Thursday, 9.30-11.30am, Jock Stein Centre, Hillhouse; Active Friday, 10am to noon, Carluke Leisure Centre; Active Saturday, 11am to 2pm, Uddingston Sports Centre.

Organisers say a warm welcome awaits anyone interested in joining in.

Christine Calder, Seniors Together project manager, explained:“at the beginning of each session, participants are welcomed by older volunteers before taking part in a short warm-up. Then we kick off a varied programme of activities, some led by coaches from South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC).

“These include table tennis, badminton and new age kurling.

“We have also introduced an easy yoga session which can be done whilst seated.

“At the same time, there is always seating available so that those involved can do as much or as little as they like.

“Not only do the sessions offer the chance to boost physical fitness and wellbeing, but we know from experience that the social opportunities opened up, are just as important. Many friendships have been made along the way, which for older people who are more at risk of loneliness and exclusion, can be a lifeline.”

Active sessions are free to SLLC Activeage card holders or cost £5.20 (£2.60 concession) per class attended.