A fitness class to improve older adults’ strength, balance and confidence will be offered in Guernsey for the first time.
The Otago Exercise Programme was originally developed in New Zealand using extensive research and evidence.
By combining simple strength and balance exercises, the 12-week programme has led to a 35-40% reduction in falls among participants.
The first session will take place on Thursday 8 October at St Martin’s Community Centre and will be led by Seema Banhatti who was inspired to start the course after her own experiences.
Ms Banhatti saw the positive impact Otago exercises had on her late husband, helping him regain confidence and mobility.
Following his success, Ms Banhatti took specialist training so she could provide the same support and encouragement to others in the community.
The classes will take place in the Fermain Room from 10:30 to 11:30, and with only 20 participants per class there will be plenty of room to do the exercises.
A suggested donation of £5 is encouraged to help cover costs of holding the session.
Anyone interested in joining the programme or finding out more is encouraged to contact Ms Banhatti by email on srbanhatti@gmail.com.
