Keeping Generation Plus Fit and Active in Potters Bar

There are plenty of studies which prove that exercise becomes more important as we age.  Staying active helps improve physical and mental health which is important for maintaining independence as we age.  It also helps to prevent falls and many of the health problems that come with age such as osteoporosis, arthritis, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, dementia, depression and some cancers.

Adults over the age of 65 should:

• Aim to by physically active every day, even if just light activity such as getting up to make a cup of tea or dusting, making the bed, vacuuming and moving around the house;
• Do activities that improve strength, balance and flexibility at least 2 days per week;
• Do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity a week (such as a walk, water aerobics, dancing, chair-based exercise classes or Tai Chi) or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity, if they are already active (such as a brisk walk, running, riding a bike or playing tennis);
• Reduce time spent sitting or lying down to break up long periods of not moving with some activity.

The great news is that keeping fit doesn’t have to be boring or lonely.  There are many ways to stay active in a fun and sociable way.  Our Care Professionals help our clients to stay fit by supporting them to go for walks, going to classes at the gym, swimming, gardening, playing bowls and enjoying trips out.  They can even support clients with rehabilitation exercise routines recommended by their physiotherapist.

The Furzefield Leisure Centre in Potters Bar is a great place to get fit, have fun and get together with family, friends or your Care Pro.  It has a range of facilities including a state-of-the-art gym, a relaxing spa fully equipped with a sauna and steam room, an indoor cycle studio, a 33 m swimming pool and a wide array of fitness classes specifically for the over 65s including Aqua Aerobics, Tai Chi, Keep Fit, Walking Netball and Walking Football.  There is also a lovely Café where you can enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee and a bite to eat after your work out.

The Furzefield Leisure Centre is very accommodating and happy to allow carers to come along with clients to offer support.

As part of its social responsibility to improving the health and wellbeing of the local community the Furzefield Leisure Centre offers an Exercise Referral Scheme across Hertsmere.  The scheme is open to those over the age of 16 and living with certain medical conditions.  The scheme offers:

• One-to-one consultation with an exercise referral professional to discuss your medical conditions, medication, goals and exercise plan.
• Gym induction to show you how to use the equipment following your own personalised plan
• 6 and 12 week reviews to monitor your progress and update your exercise plan
• A concession membership

You can learning more about the Exercise Referral Scheme here.

If you are interested in finding out more about how our Care Professionals can support your loved ones to stay fit and active please get in touch on 01707 243 880.