This entry was posted on Monday, November 11th, 2013at 11:32 am by zoe.leahy@activenation.org.uk

Classes Helping Older Supporters To Keep Feeling Great!

Our supporters agree  with research that Yoga, Pilates and classes like our Mind and Body 50+ could help prevent older people being injured in falls – but, more importantly they just love how great they make them feel!

Fractures and other injuries related to falls are common among older people, with about one in three over 65’s living at home suffering at least one fall per year.  Studies have suggested that exercises promoting balance and muscle strength, such as tai chi, Pilates and yoga, could help lower the risk of falls happening.

Avril, 63, who attends the Mind and Body 5o+ class in Lincoln, said: “I just love it, the camaraderie in the class is just wonderful. My balance is definitely better than is used to be.”

Erica, 79, suffers from spondylosis in her neck and shoulders. She added: “Some parts of the class are a bit difficult, but I just pace myself and I feel great afterwards. It definitely helps.”

Shirley, 76, added: “I think it’s super, really relaxing. I have learnt to relax so much more since coming to the class. It really does help.”

After her first class Sheila, 74 added: “I will definitely be coming back. When you get older it does you some good to come to something like this.”

Val, 75, suffers from osteoporosis and has been coming to the class for the last three years. She said: Some of the exercises are the same as I have been given by the hospital. You can do it at you own pace and I find it very good and I’m sure it does help with my balance.”

Pat, 67, added: “It has definitely helped me with my balance.”

Researchers from France measured the benefit of such classes on injury rates, by analysing the results of 10 previous trials involving thousands of participants, whose average age was 76. They found that the exercises not only prevent falls but also lower injury rates, particularly broken bones.

Older people following these exercise regimes were 37 per cent less likely to be injured in a fall, 43 per cent less likely to suffer severe harm and 61 per cent less likely to suffer a fracture.

In a paper published on bmi.com, researchers from Hôpital Paul Brousse in Paris said the review suggests that “reducing the risk of falling and improving protective responses during a fall may be an important and feasible means of preventing fractures and other serious injuries in the elderly”.

Feeling inspire? For more information about any of our classes, give your local Active Nation centre a call!