Healthy aging class a hit

ACCORDING to Southern Cross University student Katy Lawryk, you are never too old to get active.

Getting fit: Lismore senior citizens (back from left) Fran Datt of Goonellabah, Joy Rodda of Goonellabah, Joan Estrich of Goonellabah, Joan McHattan of Caniaba, Maureen Patch of Modanville and Jack Jensen of Modanville while Donald Davison of Coraki uses a fit ball before Southern Cross student and gym instructor Katy Lawryk. Picture: Jacklyn Wagner

ACCORDING to Southern Cross University student Katy Lawryk you are never too old to get active.

The exercise science nutrition and clinical science student led more than 50 seniors in a healthy aging class yesterday at the Laurie Allan Centre in Lismore, promoting even the simplest of exercises can prevent injury and increase one’s life span.

Ms Lawryk is in her sixth year of a seven-year degree and her teachings prompted a great response and a mass purchase of fit balls.

“The class was full of information on healthy aging through lifespan and exercise to reduce mortality,” she said.

“I talked about making your own equipment from stuff from the hardware store, simple chair exercises and that things like standing on one leg while doing the dishes can be effective.

“There was an unbelievable response. As soon as I had finished the talk people jumped in and stripped me of all the information I had.

“People even went straight out and bought fit balls right after the talk.”

One of these people was Joan Estreich, vice-president of the Lismore Senior Citizens Club, who was very motivated by the class.

“I went out and bought a fit ball right after it,” Mrs Estreich said.

“I was very motivated as the class covered all the elements for people who are 60 plus.”

The class was part of the ‘Live Life’ theme for Senior’s Week, which runs all this week. But one class has not been enough for local seniors and there is a strong demand to make classes a weekly activity.

“The response was just unbelievable ,” Lismore Senior Workers Club secretary Glad Watts said.

Originally published as Healthy aging class a hit