Belmont seniors relishing chance to pump iron as part of fitness program

The women have signed up for Living Longer, Living Stronger, run by Council of the Ageing (COTA) WA, at Belmont Oasis Leisure Centre.

Mrs Davies (82) said it was the first time she would be taking part in a weight training program after doing lots of walking with the Belmont Forum Walking Group and Prime Movers fitness classes.

“It can only be beneficial as it will provide social as well as physical activity,” she said.

“I am looking forward to mixing with people I know, making new friends and doing new things. I’ve never used dumbbells before.

“I’m starting late in life but it’s a learning curve.”

Mrs Whiteside (83) said she did a similar program about 12 years ago and was looking forward to getting involved again.

She said it made her feel stronger and fitter while she also lost weight.

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“I am motivated just from knowing before how good I felt from doing exercise and I want to feel that good again,” she said.

Mrs Whiteside encouraged seniors who had lots of time on their hands to get involved in exercise programs.

Mrs Davies said getting involved in groups made it easier to stay motivated instead of going on your own.

“It really does get you back into the community in the easiest, healthiest and most social way,” she said.

“It’s doing you good socially and physically.”

COTA (WA) active ageing manager Phil Airey said 30 people had signed up for the program offering strength and cardio exercises.

He said it could help people manage or reduce conditions such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, muscle loss and even cognitive decline.

“Around 30 seniors have now booked in for assessments in the program, which will create individually tailored programs using their medical and prescription history for optimum results,” Mr Airey said.

Belmont seniors can enrol for free by taking part in the Silver Sport program

.