Just three weeks into a community led Strength and Balance class, participants are already feeling the benefits.  It all started with a phone call and a few conversations between Sport Northland’s Kaipara Community Strength and Balance Coordinator Ann-Marie Lambly and Tinopai residents Sue Sadler and Natalie Clarihew.

The local ladies were keen to support residents, who they knew were suffering from low fitness and mobility levels, they just did not know how to go about it.  They put out an expression of interest onto their local grape vine, expecting maybe five or six to attend a trial Strength and Balance session held with Ann-Marie. “When I walked into Tinopai’s Community Hall for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised to see 17 smiling faces ready and willing to give it a go” says Ann-Marie.

The class is aimed at improving Strength and Balance for falls prevention.  Improved health, fitness and mobility are other key components gained from the class. Over the coming weeks Natalie will be learning how to become an approved Strength and Balance instructor.  She will be supported by Ann-Marie until feeling confident and able to deliver the weekly session on her own.

Class numbers have increased since the first week and it is awesome to see Tinopai’s supportive community spirit come together.  Feedback from one of the participants Jo Smith talks of the value of the class saying “I have found the class very beneficial, and I can see I am improving from week to week”.  Meanwhile another participant, Gay Neels, explains “this is a fabulous class. My kids are so pleased I am attending. Thank you, Natalie and Sue for initiating it. Many thanks to Ann-Marie for coming here to help take the class”.

The class is currently held every Wednesday afternoon at 1:30pm. For more information contact Natalie 027 604 1482.

At Sport Northland we exist to enrich people’s lives through play, active recreation and sport and one of the ways we do this is through Green Prescription and Community Strength and Balance classes where we support people on their journey.  If you would like some support with your activity goals, give us a call on phone 0800 GET ACTIVE …..we are here to help!