During the current Covid-19 lockdown it’s important that we all remain fit and healthy. Even more so if you are in your later years. So if you can’t come into KLS for a weekly exercise session, and you can’t leave your home, what do you do? Well, look no further as we’ve moved our Elders exercise and dance classes online and via the telephone.
Our exercise tutors (Marianna and Hannah) are making weekly phonecalls to our members to see how they’re doing, but also guide them through some of the exercises they normally do each week at our community centre. We’ve also posted some exercise sheets and DVDs (of the video below) for them to practice at home on their own. It’s not quite the same but we’re being creative and it’s definitely helping our members.
KLS’s chair-based exercise programme started in October 2014 and has been growing since. When not in lockdown we offer 5 weekly sessions for about 50 frail elders, led by Mariana, a qualified and experienced physiotherapist and exercise group leader, and Hannah, a qualified dance instructor, who leads our dance sessions. Our elders have multiple health problems and low levels of mobility, and for some this is the only time they leave their home each week.
The sessions aim to improve mobility so they can live more independently and enjoy their daily life. Exercise is proven to improve balance, stability, mobility, strength and flexibility, and it improves blood circulation and breathing. Everyone is welcome and we cater for all levels of ability. Many stay on for other activities too, like our lunch club.
Back in 2017 we produce a film of our exercise programmes, with local film maker Sandra Munoz from Keepsake Films, so that our senior members can continue to exercise at home if they are unable to attend a session at KLS. We’re so glad we did as we’re using them now. It’s not quite Joe Wicks but it works for our elders. Do try them out (they’re harder than you think) and let us know how you get on.
If you fancy just a bit of fun (which we do!) then here’s the trailer we made:
If you do want to contact our Elders team then please call us 020 7223 2845 and [email protected]
We will get back to you quickly.
Enjoy the exercise!