New fitness initiative encourages over 65s to Get Moving

Get Moving – a new initiative designed to get inactive people aged 65 and older more active has kicked off in Kangaroo Flat.

Get moving is an initiative of the City of Greater Bendigo and Loddon Mallee Move It Project that provides a series of low cost, group exercise classes with qualified instructors in the Kangaroo Flat area.

City of Greater Bendigo Community Wellbeing Manager Andie West said staying active through regular physical activities is very important for older adults because it helps improve bone strength, increases energy levels, regulates blood pressure, improves sleep and helps prevents diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

“Regular exercise not only improves physical health but also mental health and the Get Moving classes aim to enhance older adults connection to community,” Ms West said.

“Not only will participants enjoy the many benefits that come with physical activity, they will also meet new people in a relaxed and friendly local environment and most importantly have some fun.

“Activities include walking or strength and balance exercise classes together with exercise physiologist assessments and information and education sessions.

“Support will be provided to participants by trained allied health professionals and assistants and there will also be peer support to welcome them to the program and keep them motivated.”

The Get Moving program offers exercise physiology classes, walking group, gentle aerobics, water aerobics and an outdoor exercise group. Sessions will take place at Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre, at the new Kangaroo Flat outdoor fitness zone and along the Bendigo Creek trail.

The cost of all sessions is $5 except for the walking group which is free. Sessions are between 30 minutes and one hour and bookings are essential.

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