Lucinda launches exercise classes for over-55s

Fun and friendly exercise classes are being offered to older adults and individuals with exercise-limiting health conditions.

Fifty-five Plus Exercise (55PE) is being run by qualified exercise coach Lucinda Lyn-Jones, and her sessions are open to those with heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arthritis, COPD and many other health conditions.

With an ageing population and a struggling NHS, it is now paramount that we take care of our health, said Lucinda.

She said: "One very simple way of doing this is to take regular exercise. It is never too late to start.

"Studies have shown that maintaining regular physical activity can help prevent many common diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes. Exercise improves overall immune function, which is important for seniors as their immune systems are often compromised.

"The mental health benefits of exercise are nearly endless. Exercise produces endorphins - the 'feel good' hormone - which act as a stress reliever and leaves you feeling happy and satisfied. In addition, exercise has been linked to improving sleep, which is especially important for older adults who often suffer from insomnia and disrupted sleep patterns.

"Older adults are at a higher risk of falls, which can prove to be potentially disastrous for maintaining independence. Exercise improves strength and flexibility, which also help improve balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls.

"Seniors take much longer to recover from falls, so anything that helps avoid them in the first place is critical.

"Exercise is often seen as a chore but if you find the right group it can be made into a fun social event that you look forward to.

"Maintaining strong social ties is important for ageing adults to feel a sense of purpose and avoid feelings of loneliness or depression.

"Regular physical activity and fine-tuned motor skills benefit cognitive function," said Lucinda. "Countless studies suggest a lower risk of dementia for physically active individuals, regardless of when you begin a routine."

Lucinda added: "Exercise is good for you; it’s just a matter of making it a priority and habit in your daily life. In the ageing population, exercise has been shown to prevent disease, lower the risk of falls, improve mental health and well-being, strengthen social ties, and improve cognitive function."

The 55PE classes run at St Matthias’ Church Hall in Wellswood, St Anne’s Hall in Babbacombe, The Memorial Hall in Torquay, Marldon Village Hall and Kingskerswell Public Hall.

The chair-based sessions are 30 minutes long and cost £5.50. The standing sessions are for 45 minutes and cost £7.50.

More information about days and times can be found at www.55pe.co.uk, email Lucinda@55pe.co.uk or call Lucinda on 01803 389146 or 07900 906 056.