Men's fitness class is foot tapping fun
Published on 13 June 2024 11:00 AM
Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin’s exercise group for men is proving a popular way to improve your health and have fun keeping fit.
What the regulars seem to like most about the Fitness for Men class is that ‘the organisers don’t expect too much of you, and you can go at your own pace.’
This came up again and again whilst chatting with the gentlemen who enjoy the class run by Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin every Wednesday afternoon at the United Reformed Church in Coleham Head, Shrewsbury.
‘It’s not too much. It’s not like a gym,’ said 85-year-old Clive. ‘I’ve been coming here now for two and a half months. It’s once a week but I personally wish I could come here twice a week. I really enjoy it.’
Members follow prompts from the instructor, Wendy Southorn, a qualified exercise teacher with extensive experience of working with older people. Sometimes these gentle exercises require participants to use their chairs as support as they stretch arms and legs, sometimes they are asked to walk forward a few paces, walk backwards, step up and down, lean to the left, lean to the right, lift an object for a few moments. Classic pop music from the CD player helps things to go with a swing: a bit of Johnny Cash or a foot-tapper from The Shadows.
Mike, 87, is a live music fan who also enjoys making his own wine. He’s been a regular at the group for three months and says: ‘I’m not a keep-fit fanatic by any means, but I believe it’s essential to do some exercise like this as you get older. And, actually, it’s really good fun. And it helps you get out and about and meet other people.’
These are friendly, informal exercise sessions designed to improve strength, co-ordination and balance, and men of all levels of fitness are made welcome. The sessions take place every Wednesday afternoon and advance booking is essential.
To book your place or just to find out more about the Fitness for Men class, call Wellbeing services at Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin on 01743 233 123 or email enquiries@ageukstw.org.uk