Exercise is proven to help in many ways for everyone’s lifestyle, especially older adults. What are those benefits, what should you be doing, and how can Aqualink support you are all important questions.

What should you do?

• At least 30 minutes of moderate activity on most days (preferably all). No matter age, weight, health problems or abilities, do some form of physical activity
• Do a range of activities – fitness, strength, balance, flexibility
• If haven’t exercised in a long time, start at a manageable level 
• If you have been active your whole life, don’t slow down because of your birth certificate. Stay within your capabilities

The benefits

• Physiological changes begin at around 30 (which can be very scary for everyone). Exercise is proven to slow down these changes such as muscle mass and strength, bone mineral density and heart and lung function.
•  Maintains or improves physical function
• Improved cardiovascular endurance – being able to walk without puffing out or playing with the grandkids
• Improved muscle strength – ability to get in and out of a chair easily, pick things up, continue with everyday activity
• Improved weight, cholesterol and diabetes management – exercise is proven to assist in managing cholesterol and diabetes. It is very important to exercise if you have or are at risk of these health issues
• Decreased risk of heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure – light exercise has the benefit of decreasing blood pressure which decreases the stress caused on the heart – reducing the risk of heart attacks (as long as not exercising too hard)
• Increased energy – no need for afternoon naps! 
• Improved bone mineral density – reducing the risk of osteoporosis
• Improved balance – reducing the risk of falls and potentially hip replacements
• Improved flexibility and mobility – ability to continue to move, pick things up, put clothes on, reach your shoe laces
• Rehabilitation exercises – completing these exercises after surgeries/physio can bring you back to normal activity quickly
• Compared to younger people, strength training with adequate stimulus will have similar strength gains
• Aqua specific: increase your cardiovascular fitness/heart health while completing exercises that are not putting stress through the lower back, hip and knee joints.
• Social interaction is one of the most important benefits of exercise for older adults.  Meeting like-minded people has a proven effect on increasing life expectancy.

 

How to get  Aqualink support you in your exercise through Group Fitness?

• Specific classes / specialised instructors and other like-minded people

Group Fitness timetable

FAB CIRCUIT (AQN): 

• Circuits are a steady-paced, progressive weights workout to music. Excellent for regaining muscle strength, mobility and general fitness. Suitable for all fitness levels.

FAB STRENGTH: 

• An enjoyable and interactive class using strength equipment and body weight exercises. It highlights the health benefits and importance of using weight-bearing exercises.

FAB STRENGTH PLUS:

• Next step up from Fab Strength with a focus on strength, cardio, agility and coordination through functional bodyweight and various equipment. Modified format for older adults, moderate to high fitness levels.

GENTLE EXERCISE (AQBH):

• Combining seated/chair-based exercises with standing work. 

LITE PACE: 

• A gentle, low-impact aerobic workout. Ideal for beginners and older adults. Includes core training and stability/balance work.

ZUMBA GOLD: 

• A fun, easy-to-follow dance fitness class based on the original moves in Zumba modified to a lower intensity.  Suitable for all fitness levels.

WELLNESS CLASSES: 

• (Yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi, Meditation, Stretch & Stabilise, BodyBalance) – core strength, flexibility, relaxation, enhanced posture and balance

AQUA CLASSES: 

• (Deep Water Aqua, Aqua, AquaFIT, Fab Aqua Plus and Warm Water Aqua) – Increase cardiovascular fitness, strength and muscle tone in a fun, low impact environment