Gentle Strength & Balance Class | Waihemo Lodge

🌿 Steady As You Go is a gentle, physiotherapy-based strength and balance class perfect for seniors and those with limited mobility. Join our friendly, weekly one-hour sessions at Waihemo Lodge in Palmerston where trained Peer Leaders guide you through seated, standing and walking exercises designed to improve stability and confidence.

This supportive class focuses on gentle movements to enhance balance, strength and mobility in a relaxed, social atmosphere. The $3 entry fee makes this accessible for everyone seeking to maintain independence and prevent falls.

Developed by Margaret Dando QSM and Age Concern Otago, these classes are proven to help participants gain confidence in movement while enjoying social connections.

Location: Waihemo Lodge, 13 Runbrake Street, Palmerston 9430

Cost: $3 per session

Contact: Margaret Dando QSM at 03-479-3052 or margaret@ageconcernotago.co.nz

Why Balance Training Matters for Seniors 🧠 💪

Balance and strength exercises are crucial for maintaining independence and preventing falls as we age. Research shows that regular participation in specialized exercise programs like Steady As You Go can reduce fall risk by up to 30%.

These physiotherapy-based classes offer multiple benefits:

• Improved stability for everyday activities like walking and climbing stairs
• Enhanced muscle strength in the lower body to support movement
• Better coordination between different body systems
• Increased confidence in moving around independently
• Social connection with others in your community

Gentle exercise classes like this are particularly valuable for:

• Those recovering from injury or surgery
• People who use walking aids or have mobility concerns
• Anyone wanting to maintain independence at home
• Seniors looking to prevent falls before they happen

The seated components make this class accessible even for those with significant mobility challenges, while standing exercises can be modified with chair support as needed. The walking elements help improve gait and real-world stability.

Regular participation in balance classes has been shown to improve not just physical wellbeing, but also mental health through increased social interaction and the confidence that comes from maintaining physical abilities. Many participants report feeling more secure when moving around their homes and community after just a few weeks of consistent practice.