Celebrating an entire year of movement

Regular physical activity in later life is important for so many reasons – not only will health improve, but you’ll also meet new people.

Age Concern Fuengirola Mijas y Benalmadena thought it was important to provide free chair exercises and pilates classes to their members. One year on, the benefits for the community are so rewarding.

One woman commented that now she could enjoy reading her favorite book in the sun, because she no longer feared falling off the balcony step. Karen Holmquist a Pilates teacher and Ruth Massey a physiotherapist, who are both volunteers, received a flood of messages from people expressing their support. Karen said that staying active in older age is very beneficial. You can keep a healthy weight by exercising and by strengthening your muscle. It also helps to boost your mood and energy by releasing endorphins. It’s also social, and by taking a class you can make new friends.

You don’t need to worry if you haven’t worked out in a long while. The classes will help you get back into shape at your own pace. And if you are used to exercising regularly, you can tailor the exercises to be more intense. Classes are held at St Andrews Church Los Boliches in Fuengirola every Wednesday, between 2pm and 4pm. Karen can be reached at 618 852892 for further information.