The Taupō Events Centre’s fitness and activities team recently gained accreditation for their Keep on your Feet programme offering tailored fitness courses for those over retirement age.

The classes are suitable for seniors who want to improve their mobility and have some fun in a sociable setting; aqua fitness and two different masters classes mean there is something for everyone.

“These classes are suitable for all fitness levels and range from low to full mobility. We’ve really grown over the years, and I’m delighted that Sport BOP have recognised our qualified instructors who put in so much work,” says Taupō District Council’s fitness and activities team lead Toby Joll.

Keep on your Feet is part of the nationwide Live Stronger for Longer initiative that creates access to approved community strength and balance classes. Falls are one of the most common injuries for people over 65.

“This accreditation lets us know that we are on the correct course and that we are providing a service that benefits our elderly community. It also gives our participants confidence that they are getting a good instructor who must meet certain standards to take the class,” says Toby.

Sharon Barton has been going to the masters classes for years and praises the instructors for making the sessions challenging yet motivating.

“I love playing sport, but I can be quite lazy when it comes to doing exercises. I find having an instructor tell me what to do, in a group setting with music going, is a lot more motivating than me exercising on my own!

“We’re a friendly, caring group of men and women, predominantly retired or semi-retired. We all recognise that we have limitations, so if we are unable to do an exercise well, we just modify the exercise, and no-one worries if you do something differently. The classes really are affordable and you can also meet friends for coffee at the café afterwards or go for a swim!”

Taupō Event Centre is centrally located and fully accessible, and you can try a one-off class for less than the price of a takeaway coffee. Toby says the instructors are trained to create fitness programmes and adjust activities to suit people with specific needs such as joint conditions.

“We want to support people in their fitness journeys through these classes and they are also a good way to socialise, leave the house, and stay healthy,” says Toby. “You don’t need to bring any equipment, just a positive attitude!”

You can find out more about aqua fitness, masters classes or the masters’ lite community fitness class at www.taupodc.govt.nz/recreation/fitness-studio/fitness-classes.

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