The Weight Exercise for Balance class held at Mackay Park on Tuesday mornings isn’t just about women staying strong, say class participants Joan Barrass and Kathy Bailey.
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Kathy, who started with WEB just four months ago, said her classmates were like an extended family.
“Everyone helps each other,” she said.
“We like to egg each other on but then a lot of the girls go for a coffee afterwards.”
It’s like an extended family – everyone helps each other and they egg each other on.
Joan said her family was pleased she attended WEB, often described as “the keeping young class”.
“It means I can still do most things with them – although I draw the line at skiing,” she said.
“I don’t have to stand on the sidelines while they do the fun things.”
Joan has been with WEB from the start, having met WEB founder Bronwyn Dunn eight years ago.
”We were saying how good it would be if we could do some active and physical exercise, and Bronwyn took it upon herself to research the exercises and form the group, based on the book Strong Women Stay Young.
Kathy has found quick results working out with weights.
“It works every muscle in your body and you work to your own level. It’s good for your bones too,” she said.
“I have seen changes already – my abdomen is more toned and my legs are firmer.”
Joan said taking responsibility was also a part of the WEB ethos.
“It is extremely worthwhile to maintain activity and strength into your senior years. I can’t say it will prevent you having a problem, but taking steps to help yourself is definitely an advantage,” she said.
“It is very much in all our minds – keeping what we already have.
“Younger women, in their forties, are more likely involved in other sports. They would certainly be welcome but maybe the attraction isn’t there for them yet.”
When it comes to taking responsibility, Joan is leading by example; having returned to class after having a hip done just a few moths ago: “Of course, I have reduced the weights I am using on that leg.”
“Bronwyn encourages us to work with our different capabilities and constraints: We make our own decisions about how heavy we lift … although there’s always encouragement to try a little more. You’ll hear her admonish, ‘don’t be slack – don’t be a wuss’”. Ph Bronwyn on 4472 6608.