97-year-old shows it’s never too late to get fit

RITA GREENS might be 97, but that is not stopping her taking up a new fitness class.

The grandmother has joined her daughter Marcia and grandson Martin in tai chi classes organised by Age Cymru.

It was actually keen sportsman Martin, who has represented Wales in gymnastics, who got her involved.

As well as gymnastics, he had played table tennis at a high level, enjoyed trampolining, taekwondo and aikido.

But, a knee injury put paid to the 52-year-old’s sporting activities for a number of years until a friend suggested that he joined a tai chi class to help improve his suppleness and strength.

With nothing to lose, Martin joined the charity’s tai chi class and hasn’t looked back since. He restarted his aikido classes and is close to achieving a black belt. He also coaches local youngsters in table tennis, all thanks to the powers of tai chi.

But the story doesn’t end there. Martin persuaded his aunty Marcia, 63, and his nan Rita to join him at the tai chi class – both of who have since benefited hugely.

There’s no denying that Rita is the star of the show as she gracefully goes through the tai chi moves sat on her chair in the middle of the class.

Rita and Marcia, who emigrated from the Caribbean to Cardiff during the 1950s, use the classes to catch up on family news and make new friends, as well as improve their health and well-being.

Martin says: “I would recommend tai chi to all ages but especially older people.

“Not only will it improve your mobility, stability and balance but it can also give you the confidence to try other activities.”

Age Cymru’s physical activities support officer Amy Lloyd says: “We would urge anyone not to be put off just because they may have arthritis or some other condition.”

Call Age Cymru on 029 2043 1555.