Steady as you go (SAYGO) is an exercise class designed to help older people reduce the likelihood of having a fall. It consists of simple activities, seated in a chair, standing, and walking around. SAYGO improves balance, flexibility, and strength. Participants feel physically better and more able.

We are lucky to enough to have a SAYGO class in Whangarei at the Seventh Day Adventist Church Hall run by the lovely Merren Grigg.

When asked Merren what her thoughts are on this class, she shares

“I personally feel very strongly about the benefits of exercise; that is keeping as fit and as strong as your health allows. The benefits of exercising are multi layered affecting so much of our wellbeing particularly as we age. It disheartens me to see seniors, particularly women, with no strength in the limbs, a debilitating weakness that has crept up over the years that they are largely unaware of until a fall happens, and they are trapped on the floor.

However, I also feel it’s never too late to begin exercising, building strength and balance which is why I am involved in senior classes. Hopefully I can make a small difference, impart some knowledge, and encourage seniors to do their best while having fun too.

There is a strong social aspect to senior classes I think is just as important, a mutual encouragement and sharing. For me it is seeing friendships develop, seeing even the smallest progress with individuals in the class and to be told by a person that they are so much better with the exercises even though it is challenging at times. I think it is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done.

It doesn’t stop there, Lilian, wife of one of the regular participants David, shares her thoughts on Merren’s class. “David has been prone to falling. He has had a caliper on his left leg for several years and instead of lifting the leg he would drag it. As well as this, he has had a knee replacement and two hip replacements. This has been a huge concern. His physiotherapist suggested Strength and Balance classes and after his last fall ACC suggested the same.

We decided to do some investigation on what was available by going online. We found several groups of interest. One such group was the SAYGO class run by Merren. We found Merren was so welcoming, we decided to go along and see what it was about. Immediately we were made to feel comfortable with no pressure at all to do anything we felt we could not handle. After just twelve weeks we realised David had not had a single fall and that we were now part of this small, friendly group. We had just left a small community where we knew everyone, and everyone knew us, so that sense of belonging was just as important to us as the physical benefits.”

The following are what other participants have to say about Merren’s classes also

• I have been attending classes with Merren for about 3 years, after my doctor referred me.
• Merren is a very caring person. She keeps in touch and encourages us to keep fit and healthy.’ She introduces new exercises keeping it interesting. The group has a few long members, but new people are very welcome.
• I am much more aware of my balance and surroundings when walking. I enjoy the friendships I have developed since I have been with the group.
• I think it is one of the most rewarding things I have ever done.

Find your joy, have some fun, get to know a few people, it will fill your soul.

At Sport Northland we exist to enrich people’s lives through play, active recreation and sport. If you are interested in starting up a community strength and balance class in your community and/or want to know more about what’s on offer, reach out to us at Sport Northland phone 0800 GET ACTIVE …..we are here to help!