A new training scheme aims to combat sedentary behaviour in older adults and tackle the loneliness and social isolation that affects hundreds of thousands nationwide.
The Centre for Healthy Ageing Research at University of Birmingham has teamed up with Move it or Lose it! to offer a training course in chair-based exercise which is open to people without formal qualifications who have the desire to improve the lives of older people within their communities.
There is overwhelming evidence of the significant benefits of physical activity for older adults to improve musculoskeletal function, mobility and wellbeing. Yet, latest research reports that only 7% of adults aged over 75 meet the minimum recommended levels of activity every week.
Move it or Lose it! – winners of the National Diversity Award and Best Fitness Newcomer Award on TV – has a proven track record in motivating older people to take part by making exercise fun whilst being safe and effective.
Unique to the course is input from world leading researchers in how ageing affects the musculoskeletal system and how exercise can help older adults stay healthy in old age. Instructors also learn how to motivate those with mobility problems who may be fearful of exercise, along with simple methods of evaluating their sessions.
There are courses in Edinburgh and Birmingham this autumn with other venues planned across the UK to follow soon.
Julie Robinson, Founder of Move it or Lose it! says: “We want to create a network of instructors committed to change the way we perceive exercise as we age. With careful encouragement and progressive exercises it is amazing what can be achieved; their confidence grows as their mobility improves and this also creates opportunities to socialise in a friendly local setting.”
Find out more www.moveitorloseit.co.uk/careers training@moveitorloseit.co.uk or call 0800 612 7785.
