Aim of the classes These classes are intended to help you improve your health and ability to deal with things you do in everyday life - such as gardening and shopping - and also to help with your general fitness. They will be no more strenuous than a brisk walk. Above all they should be an enjoyable way to meet friends.
Would these classes be suitable for me? The classes are suitable for older people who have not exercised for some time, also those suffering from cancer, depression, MS, obesity, osteoporosis, Parkinsons, stable cardiac patients, stable asthmatics, stable diabetics and mild to moderate hypertensives (below 180/110). You must be mobile as one to one attention cannot be guaranteed, you must also be able to understand how the class works and be able to gauge your own exercise intensity.
Can I just turn up on the day? You need to telephone Activity for Health on 01795 521145 and you will be asked some basic questions about your health. If the classes seem suitable you will then be asked to meet one of our qualified instructors who will assist with an in depth screening questionnaire (if there are problems we may refer you to your GP). From this the instructor will be able to prescribe the appropriate level of exercise to gain maximum health benefit with minimum risk.
What is the structure of the class The class is circuit based and enable the intensity of the exercise to be matched to your own ability. There is a 15 minute warm up, after which you complete a series of exercises, followed by cool down. Every exercise will be fully explained to you and an instructor will be on hand if you need any help. Exercise cards will be kept for you with a record of how you are progressing, as each individual works to their own programme.
Instructors
K Woolf-May, BSc (Hons), MSc, PhD - extensive experience in prescribing exercise to special populations. Currently lecturing and researching into health related exercise at Canterbury Christ Church University.
D Ferrett, BA (Hons), MSc - Currently assisting in research into health related exercise at Canterbury Christ Church University and instructing various circuit training classes.