Local activities to support healthy ageing in Brighton & Hove
Calling all over-50s - later this month, as part of our Stay Strong, Steady and Independent campaign, you can join a range of free (or affordable) taster sessions to improve your strength and balance.
The campaign, running from 23 April to 7 May, offers a programme of free or low-cost activities for anyone over 50 in venues across the city and online, including strength and balance classes, racket sports, chair-based exercise classes, dance, tai chi and more.
Cat Beveridge, who is running a Swoove Fitness dance class during the campaign, said: “The campaign is brilliant and so important, as it shows people what activities are out there. These classes are also a great opportunity to meet new people who you’ll have something in common with.
“People might think that they're too old to exercise, that there are certain things they can't or shouldn't be doing once they hit a milestone birthday, but I have a few people in my classes who are in their 70s and 80s who keep up with the ones in their 30s! Keep moving and you'll age slower.”
Strength and balance
The annual campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of strength and balance exercises to support healthy ageing.
Our muscle strength and balance start to reduce from around the age of 30; from around the age of 55, we lose about 1% of our muscle mass every year.
The good news is that there are lots of easy, affordable ways to maintain your strength and balance. Just 10-20 minutes twice a week (minimum) of doing strength and balance activities can seriously reduce your risk of having a life-changing fall.
Simple but effective steps
Jacob Allen, Cabinet member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Service Transformation, said: “It’s wonderful to support Brighton & Hove City Council’s Stay Strong, Steady and Independent campaign, which provides a great opportunity for people to try something new, build confidence, and connect with others.
“Having a fall is not an inevitable part of ageing, and this campaign highlights the simple but effective steps we can all take to stay active and well for longer.
“Ageing well is a key priority for us and by investing in prevention and supporting people to live healthier lives, we’re helping to create a safer, more inclusive city for everyone.”
Find out more
To choose your own way to build strength and balance, visit the Ageing Well website or call 0808 175 3234.
You can see a full list of the activities available on our Stay Strong, Stay Steady, Stay Independent events listing webpage, or pick up a programme from a library near you.
