The Importance of Keeping Fit in the Golden Years

A recent study has found that people who are unwell benefit greatly from dance and art lessons, there are even calls for them to become available on prescription!
As we age we become more at risk of falls but keeping active and partaking in activities such as dance and keep fit can actually help reduce the risk of falls. Dance has been found to help mobility, gait and balance. Couple this with the social aspect of a group class and you can see why the NHS are taking Dance to Health so seriously. “Dance to Health is a new, nationwide pioneering falls prevention dance programme for older people. Combining evidence based physiotherapy with the creativity and energy of dance.”

Dance for Health Project
The Dance for Health Project is a study of the health benefits of people who are unwell and has recommended the health board formalise its use. Watch this falls prevention class in Gorseinon, Swansea it is part of a Dance for Health Project run by the National Dance Company for Wales.

Prime Time Club at Smart Fitt
The good news is that here at Smart Fitt Fitness we already run Prime Time Club which is a great way of keeping fit, improving balance and mobility and meeting new, like minded individuals. Just because you’re getting older doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy exercising and here at the Prime Time Club everyone is welcome to join in at their own pace.

Various props are available to really get the most out of the class. Classes are simple and fun and suitable for everyone. Classes are 45 minutes long and you can relax and have a hot drink and a chat at the end. Prime Time Gold is a seated class while Prime Time Active are walking aerobics classes so you’re bound to find a class that meets your needs.

Benefits of Prime Time Clubs:

• Increased mobility
• Coordination exercises
• Using both sides of the brain at the same time has been shown to help with brain function.
• Social interaction with others, many seniors live alone.
• Co-operation - team activities encourage verbal participation and co-operation within the group.

Keeping muscles active helps:

• Keep the body functioning properly for longer,
• Stronger core muscles help to prevent lower back problems, stability and balance (fewer falls).
• Flexible muscles that are regularly stretched means that if the person does fall less damage is likely.​

What our Prime Time members say:

Me exercise! No. Amanda has got me doing an hour of laughter filled movement which I do at home.” 

(Steve 59, Prime Time Club, Stamford)​
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Gentle exercise yes. An hour long. An hour full of good music, good company and laughter, all lead by the best... Amanda!

(Gill 62, Prime Time Club, Stamford)

You are never too old to start exercising! Prime Time Club is a great way to increase your mobility, improve your flexibility and co-ordination and meet new people. Make coming to a class part of your routine and start to see the benefits of regular, fun exercise!