Committing to a stronger Aboriginal community
A new exercise program designed to encourage older Aboriginal people to be more active is about to start in Tamworth.
Tamworth Aboriginal Medical Service and Hunter New England Local Health District have developed the program specifically for Aboriginal people over 45 years of age with the aim of improving strength and balance,
HNE Population Health Program Manager Carolyn Slattery believes the program will consistently show benefits in the Aboriginal community.
“The idea behind the program is to help build the confidence and mobility of our Aboriginal seniors to go about their day to day activities and help them to improve their health and wellbeing”.
“The seniors will then pass on their commitment to safe and effective exercise to the younger generation, helping to close the gap into the future.”
A large number of Aboriginal community members have already signed up for the initiative to build their strength, improve balance and develop overall wellbeing.
Tamworth Aboriginal Medical Service representative Robert Bergan is looking forward to seeing the benefits of the program.
“This program will enable more Aboriginal people within our community to engage in physical activity within a safe, gym environment.
Classes are provided by trained fitness instructors and are a great way for Aboriginal people to meet new friends, have fun and enjoy the benefits of exercise at the same time,” he said.
Ms Slattery says the need for strength and balance exercise has never been greater.
“The statistics of Aboriginal people aged 45 and over falling, injuring themselves and ending up in hospital is quite high, and we want to prevent that from happening.”
The class will run every Wednesday morning at 10.30am at Fitness Plus, a fitness centre in Tamworth. The program will focus on improving balance, strength, activity and mobility through gentle exercise.
For more information on the program please contact Robert Bergan at Tamworth Aboriginal Medical Service (02) 6766 5211 or email Robert.bergan@tams.org.au
Contact: Abbey Wright
Phone: (02) 4921 4477