Steady As You Go: Fall Prevention Classes in Waipawa

🧠 💪 Join our Steady As You Go programme at St Peter's Hall in Waipawa - a FREE weekly class specifically designed to improve balance, build muscle strength, and prevent falls.

Sessions run Mondays at 9:15am and 10:30am, catering to those with limited mobility and those with reasonable mobility. Our 60-minute classes include seated warm-ups, standing exercises (with chair support if needed), and gentle cool-downs.

This supportive community programme is facilitated by an Age Concern trained instructor and eventually moves to a peer-led model using an audio CD based on the Otago Exercise Programme.

Contact Details:

• LeeAnn Ayto
• Phone: 06 858 9158
• Email: healthpromotion@ageconcernhb.co.nz

Location: St Peter's Hall, 52 Kenilworth Street, Waipawa 4210

Please contact us before attending your first class. No special equipment needed - just wear comfortable clothes and bring a water bottle!

Benefits of Fall Prevention Exercise for Older Kiwis 🌿

Falls are a significant health concern for older New Zealanders, with nearly one in three people over 65 experiencing a fall each year. Regular participation in structured exercise programmes like Steady As You Go can reduce fall risk by up to 30%.

Our evidence-based programme focuses on:

• Balance improvement - Enhancing your stability during everyday activities
• Strength building - Targeting key muscle groups that support independent movement
• Confidence boosting - Reducing fear of falling that can limit activity
• Social connection - Creating meaningful community bonds with fellow participants

The Otago Exercise Programme that forms the foundation of our classes was developed right here in New Zealand and has been proven effective through extensive research. Beginning with gentle, accessible movements, the programme allows for progression at your own pace.

For those with limited mobility, our Level 1 exercises provide a safe starting point with plenty of seated options and support. As your confidence grows, you can challenge yourself with more advanced movements and optional ankle weights.

Beyond physical benefits, regular attendance at Steady As You Go classes provides valuable social interaction and community connection - essential components of wellbeing for older adults.