Affordable strength and balance classes for over 50s Highlight Section Myall Coast Port Stephens by News Of The Area - Modern Media - October 25, 2021 Living Longer Living Stronger is an innovative strength and balance program for older people. AN exciting and affordable exercise program for people aged 50-100+ has re-launched at five locations in the MidCoast, including Tea Gardens, supported by MidCoast Assist. Now is the time to rebuild your strength after the COVID-induced period of hibernation. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au Living Longer Living Stronger is an innovative strength and balance program for older people. It involves progressive resistance training to improve your strength, balance and mobility, as well as having benefits for your overall energy and vitality. The program was developed by COTA (Council on the Ageing) Australia. Living Longer Living Stronger instructors have all undertaken specialised training with COTA NSW which covers the needs of older people and how to work with the types of injuries and conditions that affect older people. “The beauty of the Living Longer Living Stronger program is that it is individually designed for each participant, and the instructors will take your specific needs and goals into consideration when preparing your program”, said COTA NSW CEO Meagan Lawson. “Moving and getting stronger has a flow-on effect on your general quality of life. “You’ll be better able to carry shopping and play with your grandchildren, as well as reducing the risk of falls and other injuries. “And the classes are also a great way to meet new people.” Frank has been attending Living Longer Living Stronger classes at the Forster YMCA. “Arthritis was playing havoc with me,” he said. “I’m now moving better, and my flexibility and mobility to do everyday tasks is much improved, as well as my strength, balance, spatial awareness and social interaction. “My health is wonderful and my quality of life is amazing since joining this class. I should have done it years ago.” Another participant is Noreen who attends the class at the Golden Oldies Health Club in Harrington, run by Toni Gore. “I found it very beneficial that we each get individually designed exercises to meet our needs,” Noreen said. “I definitely increased the strength in my arms and my overall balance. “I guess we will have to resume at a slightly slower pace after all the weeks in lockdown, but I know that with Toni’s knowledge and expert training we will soon be back on track.” Living Longer Living Stronger is reasonably priced, with an initial assessment to develop a personalised program costing between $25 and $50. From there classes are $10 per session. For information about the Tea Gardens sessions, contact Lynn Guilhaus on 0400 404 044 or lguilhaus@bigpond.com.