Vitality classes help keep older people mobile this winter

Vitality instructor Lorna Preece.Vitality instructor Lorna Preece.
Vitality instructor Lorna Preece.

This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission on items purchased through this article, but that does not affect our editorial judgement.

East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure is hosting virtual Vitality classes over the winter months, to help keep older people mobile.

The low level fitness classes aim to improve strength, balance and overall fitness. They have been designed for those who are independently mobile, including those living with medical conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis and Osteoporosis.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The Vitality classes are running alongside East Renfrewshire’s Live Active programme which has continued throughout lockdown.

Fitness instructor Lorna Preece said: “It’s great that we are able to offer our Vitality classes online as we know how much our regulars were missing them.

“I know how much it helps people, whether they’re living with a medical condition or just want to improve their fitness levels.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I’m so fond of my older Vitality groups and they actually need us now more than ever. Many have been shielding or may not be able to get out and about as much over the winter.

“The feedback so far has been really positive. Older people say it’s giving them some focus again and dedicated time in their house to concentrate on improving their mobility.”

Lorna, who is also a Les Mills fitness instructor, undertook extensive training, including BACPR courses for health and exercise professionals, Fall Prevention and Cancer Rehabilitation when rolling out the Vitality programme ten years ago. She also has a degree in Psychology and Counselling.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Lorna added: “Vitality classes help the body and the mind so we’d like to spread the word to anyone who might be interested in joining us. The classes can be completed live with me on screen or you can catch up at any time afterwards too.”

East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure also offer access to the NHS-funded Live Active Programme which is a 12-month scheme designed to support people become healthier and more active.

East Renfrewshire’s physical activity and health specialists provide tailored exercise for those who need support and may have underlying health conditions.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Stephanie Elliot from the Live Active team explained: “We have continued to work to support our Live Active customers during these difficult times and to make sure that everyone that’s been referred to us still has access to exercise links and opportunities to speak with our team.

“We worked to secure tablets and wifi access for vulnerable and isolated clients and we’ve made hundreds of calls and emails to check in and offer guidance on staying active.”

The Live Active team works closely with health care professionals to ensure safe and effective exercise while considering medication, mobility and the individual’s goals.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

To request a Live Active referral, speak to your GP practice or contact the Live Active team direct.

East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure’s Vitality classes take place on Thursdays at 12.30pm on Facebook.

To find out more about being supported to stay active at home, visit East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure - More Support

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.

Follow us
©National World Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice