Brightwater’s expanding seniors
Some of the 100 seniors who attend regular mobility classes at Wanderers Community Gym: James Cooper (Class instructor), Hugh Caldwell, Delphine Henderson, Robin Ashley, Sandra Ashley, Lesley Sutherland and Rosalie Richardson. Photo: Eloise Martyn.
After battling Covid restrictions during its launch in July 2021, Wanderers Senior Mobility Classes, based in Brightwater, has moved from strength to strength and now has almost 100 seniors who attend regular classes.
“Our classes help people to continue their independence, many seniors want to live at home as long as possible and that independence starts with fall prevention,” instructor and personal trainer James Cooper explains.
“Falls are often the beginning of the end for senior people so here we offer risks in a controlled environment which assists you when you experience a risk in an uncontrolled environment.”
Balance and strength are the main components of all the classes. Age Concern, Mainland Foundation, The Rātā Foundation, Taylors Contracting, and the New Zealand Community Trust have been supporting the initiative.
With its success and growing numbers, James says that a Wednesday class has been started at Saxton Stadium in Stoke based on the Wanderers’ model.
Lesley Sutherland has attended the classes since they began almost two and a half years ago.
“I needed to keep moving and have definitely gotten fitter since coming,” she says.
Delphine Henderson adds that it’s not just the exercise that is good for those who attend, but also the social connection.
“I love the social side of it, there’s a lot of banter, it’s good fun,” she says. “It’s a lovely group who look out for each other.”
The seniors who attend come from all over Tasman and the growth of the group has mainly been due to those attending seeing the benefits and enjoying the classes so much that they invite others to come and join in.
The classes offer a range of options for those just starting, to those more advanced and James is quick to point out that they cater to all levels of ability.
“There will always be a place in our classes for beginners or those with injuries that need extra support, everyone is welcome,” he adds.
Details on the Wanderers Senior Mobility Classes are online under Wanderers Community Gym, alternatively email Jimmy van der Colk at [email protected]