Gentle Strength and Balance Class at Hornby Community Centre

🧓 Steady As You Go is a gentle exercise class focused on improving strength and balance at the Hornby Community Centre. Classes include seated, standing and walking exercises suitable for those with limited to reasonable mobility.

Regular attendees report increased confidence, improved strength, and better stability in their daily activities. This class is perfect for seniors looking to maintain independence and prevent falls.

• Location: Community Care Centre, 8 Goulding Avenue, Hornby, Christchurch 8042
• Cost: $3 per session
• Suitability: Designed for people with limited mobility or those who can walk without help but may feel unsure about physical activities
• Organiser: Age Concern
• Contact: (03) 366 0903 or team@ageconcerncan.org.nz

Benefits of Strength and Balance Training for Seniors 💪 🏃‍♀️

Gentle exercise classes like Steady As You Go are essential for maintaining mobility and independence as we age. These specialized programmes focus on improving key physical abilities that help prevent falls and enhance quality of life.

Regular participation in strength and balance exercises can provide numerous benefits:

• Fall prevention: Improved balance and coordination significantly reduce fall risk, a common concern for older adults
• Increased mobility: Strengthened muscles help with everyday movements like standing from chairs, climbing stairs, and walking confidently
• Better posture: Core strengthening exercises help maintain proper alignment and reduce strain
• Enhanced confidence: As physical abilities improve, many participants experience reduced anxiety about movement
• Social connection: Group classes provide valuable social interaction, combating isolation
• Cognitive benefits: Following movement patterns and instructions provides mental stimulation

The seated exercises make this class accessible for those with mobility concerns, while standing and walking components help build functional strength for daily activities. The supportive group environment creates a positive, no-pressure atmosphere where everyone can work at their own pace.

For many Kiwi seniors, these classes become an important part of their weekly routine, providing structure, community connection, and a sense of accomplishment. The affordable price makes it accessible to most community members.