Take Heart, Gently Does It With Exercise
Illawarra Mercury
Friday August 15, 2003
A GENTLE exercise program designed to promote healthy hearts is taking Illawarra's over 50s by storm.
The new craze has become so popular Illawarra Health is now investing in marketing, sponsorship and training.
The HeartMoves program, developed by the National Heart Foundation, has proved such a success there are now classes at Ulladulla, Nowra, Shellharbour, Windang, Port Kembla, Wollongong, Unanderra and Bellambi.
More classes should begin over the next six months at community facilities and gyms in suburbs such as Berkeley, Helensburgh, Dapto, Warilla, Kiama, Culburra and Cringila.
The Mercury attended a class at Gwynneville yesterday and found George Bainet, 78, putting his recently repaired heart through its paces. Mr Bainet, who had triple-bypass surgery five months ago, is one of a number of men who attend the Thursday morning group.
Public Health Unit project officer Joanne Luke said the Gipps Rd class, running for more than 12 months, was the first in the Illawarra.
``It started as a gentle exercise class, but when the HeartMoves push began we decided to incorporate that and it's been a great success," she said.
All participants reported improvements in their overall general health and well being.
Ms Luke said the HeartMoves classes were specifically for people who had not exercised for a while.
Lenette Harden, 62, of Balgownie joined because of her diabetes. But Mrs Harden, a widow, found an unexpected benefit ... friendship.
``The companionship has been wonderful," she said.
Illawarra Health's injury prevention coordinator Michelle Kershaw said research showed physical activity built strength and balance. It could also lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol control, manage weight and improve flexibility.
Ms Luke said there was no age limit ... up or down. Some sprightly octogenarians had been going to the Gwynneville class since its inception.
Illawarra Health is seeking more level-three fitness leaders or gym owners interested in a HeartMoves class. Support, as in funding a three-day training course by the National Health Foundation, would be provided, along with an initial period of subsidy and assistance with promotion.
Phone Bulli Community Health Centre on 42840355 or Warrawong on 42740281.
© 2003 Illawarra Mercury