Leisure centre fitness class has loyal following
A very loyal band of supporters is at the heart of the success
of a Vale of Glamorgan Council leisure centre fitness class.
Nearly half the people attending the "Young at Heart" class at
Penarth Leisure Centre have been committed to staying active for
more than a decade - a remarkable figure indicating the
friendliness of the group and the results it delivers.
Incorporating interesting props such as small steps, light
weights and bands to improve muscle tone, "Young at Heart" is a
gentle, low impact aerobics class aimed at those aged 60 and over,
and offering an all over body workout in a fun and enjoyable
way.
Participants may have been referred to the class via a cardiac
rehabilitation scheme through a local hospital or are simply
focused on keeping potential health problems at bay.
Errol Mayers was referred to the class in 1994 following a heart
attack. Originally from Barbados, he attends along with his wife,
June, and both continue to enjoy the fitness regime and the
friendly atmosphere.
Penarth resident Gerry Winnan has been attending for a
remarkable 17 years and, in addition, plays tennis and is a firm
believer of the benefits of keeping active.
Encouraging other individuals to take advantage of the class,
Gerry says: “The class is really welcoming and you are encouraged
to work at your own pace whilst doing plenty of good for your body.
There's also great music ranging from Frank Sinatra hits to
classical tunes and rhythmic melodies."
Mary Sparks, who runs the Wednesday (10-11am) class, praised the
efforts of all participants. She said: “To lead a class with such a
tremendous loyal following speaks volumes. We understand that it
may be daunting for newcomers but they can be assured of a really
warm welcome. Ultimately, the class has been designed to be
manageable, and offers numerous health benefits and excellent
camaraderie.”
"Young at Heart" is also taught by fellow instructor Lucinda
Harding at the Penarth centre on Tuesdays (2-3pm) and Fridays
(10.30-11.30am), with prices starting from £1.15 per class for
concessions.
For a full timetable of fitness classes across all council
leisure centres, visit www.valeofglamorgan.gov.uk/leisurecentres.
Alternatively, for more information about attending "Young at
Heart," please call 029 2070 0717.
Caption: Instructor Mary Sparks leads her
Penarth Leisure Centre "Young at Heart" class which includes
long-standing participants Errol Mayers (front left) and Gerry
Winnan (middle right).