HSE rolls out community fun fitness classes for all

The Cork Sports Partnership has partnered with the HSE to roll out a programme of fitness to communities in West Cork.

The programme features elements of balance, strength, flexibility and range of movement. 

The HSE Community Physiotherapy devised a programme that fitness instructors in local communities could be easily trained to deliver.

The one-hour classes are taking place over eight weeks, costing €40 for the full series, in the following venues: Bandon Town Hall on Thursdays at 12.30pm; Durrus (Philip Green Centre) Tuesdays at 11am; Clonakilty GAA Club (Ahamilla) on Wednesdays at 11.30am; Skibbereen Sports Centre on Tuesdays at 12pm and 3pm and Kinsale’s Saile Sports Centre on Thursdays at 10.30am.

‘As the Irish population is ageing, within the next 25 years, one million people will be 65 and over, and our communities need to be able to adapt to meet the needs of older people. It is not just ageing itself that results in frailty but the disuse of the human body over time that means we have become de-conditioned,’ said a spokesperson. 

The weekly classes will all be conducted in non-medical settings and no special equipment or clothing is needed. All exercises are aimed at progressing balance, strengthening and increasing activity based on research of what works in fall prevention. 

The classes are open to anyone who can walk unaided, and particpants will be given home-based exercises to practise. The subsidised cost will ensure it is value for money and all-inclusive.

If you are wondering if this is the programme for you, check if you can do the following simple test of balance and strength: Cross your arms across your chest, then, stand on one leg and close your eyes, now stand tall and steady for 10 seconds … if you find yourself a bit more wobbly than you expected, and your balance isn’t ‘as good as it used to be’, this Better Balance Better Bones is the class for you.

While the classes are already up and running a second courses of eight-week sessions will begin in April. 

For more see www.corksports.ie or call 021 4347096 to book your place. 

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