Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre (BALC) hopes a new program will encourage more people over the age of 60 and those living with an ongoing medical condition to prioritise their health and wellness in the Ballarat community.
The relationship between physical fitness levels, cognition and physical health in older adults is well established. However, many older people believe that exercise is no longer an option, with common misconceptions prompting older people to abandon physical activity.
The new BALC Active Living program is all about encouraging people aged 60+ to work at improving their fitness at a pace that works for them. The program is also open to people with an ongoing health condition to give them the support and provide the tools required to help enable them to remain active and engaged.
Participants in the Active Living program have a personalised program designed by one of our dedicated instructors, with fully supervised sessions running three days a week in the Health Club. Each session is capped at 16 participants.
BALC Health Team Leader and Active Living instructor Nicole Smith says the benefits associated with regular exercise can significantly improve the quality of life in our elderly community.
“Health benefits of regular exercise include a reduction in the risk of coronary heart disease, improved balance and coordination, reduced risk of bone fractures and improved day-to-day functionality.”
“Our program also encourages social connections which has a positive impact on our overall health and wellbeing.”
Active Living is a free program for BALC Gold and Health Club members.
