Free exercise class starts up in village
A FREE exercise class aimed at giving the older generation an opportunity to try something new in their local community was enjoyed by many as its first session went underway.
A chair-based class was led by Move It or Lose It instructor, Bev Martin who designed a programme to help maintain vital muscle strength, balance and mobility and help with day to day functions such as climbing stairs or getting in and out of the car.
The class was held at Ratby Village Hall and is part of a programme called First Time for Everything, designed by the Royal Voluntary Service and Prudential and hopes to get more older people across the region staying active and social in later life.
Debra Betteridge was one of those who attended the seated exercise class and gave it the thumbs up. She said: “I think it’s an excellent idea socially as well as keeping people moving. I believe that people of all ages would benefit from this.”
Rachel Gray, RVS activity coordinator for Leicester, added: “It’s been wonderful to see so many people enjoying our First Time For Everything activities.
“Thanks to funding from Prudential, we have lots more exciting events coming up and hope that even more older people, their carers and families will come along. It’s never too late to try something for the first time.”
Jillian Lobban, Director of Regulatory and Legacy Projects at Prudential, concluded: “The programme has had a significant impact in the communities where it’s already run.
“We want to help create experiences that enhance the lives of older people and at the same time help address the epidemic of loneliness in the UK, particularly amongst the elderly.”
The next Prudential First Time For Everything event will be the Christmas Watercolours at Markfield Community Centre on Wednesday December 5 at 2pm.
For more information about the activities for older people contact Rachel on 07795 450602 or at rachel.gray@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk.
To enquire about volunteering opportunities visit the website at www.royalvoluntaryservice.org. uk/volunteer.