A Gloucestershire fitness expert who specialises in helping people aged 55 and over stay active is encouraging people to take simple steps to improve their strength and balance as part of Falls Prevention Awareness Week.
Nailsworth-based personal trainer James Hilton, founder of online fitness and wellbeing community Jim’s Gym, is supporting the awareness week, which takes place from September 21 to 25.
This year’s theme, From Awareness to Action, encourages people to take practical steps to help prevent falls.
Jim’s Gym has also partnered with Age UK Gloucestershire as part of its Be Fall-Proof campaign, raising awareness of the importance of strength and balance in helping people stay active and independent.
Jane Shute, Head of Fundraising & Communications at Age UK Gloucestershire, said: “We’re delighted to have partnered with Jim’s Gym as part of our Be Fall-Proof campaign, which aims to raise awareness around the importance of improving strength and balance to stay active and independent.
James already runs a monthly balance and falls prevention session for Jim’s Gym members, alongside more than 15 live fitness classes each week for people aged 55 and over.
“Strength and balance affect so many of the things we want to keep doing as we get older, from getting out of a chair and climbing the stairs to walking confidently and enjoying life,” said James.
“The good news is that both can be worked on. You don’t need loads of equipment or hours in a gym either. Small amounts of movement, done regularly, can make a real difference.”
James has shared five simple ways people can start looking after their strength and balance.
1. Don’t wait until you’ve had a fall
“Strength and balance are worth thinking about before you notice a problem. Everyday activities such as getting out of a chair, using the stairs and walking confidently all rely on keeping the body strong and steady.”
2. Make movement part of everyday life
“Exercise doesn’t always need to mean a formal workout. Walking, taking the stairs where appropriate and simply getting up and moving throughout the day all count.”
3. Keep working on your strength
“Maintaining muscle strength helps with everyday tasks and independence. Simple movements which use the muscles regularly, including repeatedly getting up from a chair, can help.”
4. Give your balance some attention too
“Balance can be worked on and maintained. James recommends safely including activities that challenge balance and stability as part of a wider exercise routine, with support where needed.”
5. Don’t let fear stop you moving
A fall, or worrying about having one, can knock confidence and lead people to move less. James encourages people to start with what they can manage, build gradually and seek professional advice if they are unsure what is safe for them.
“It’s never too early to start thinking about it or too late to do something. Start where you are, do what you can and keep moving.”
Jim’s Gym offers more than 15 live classes each week, including strength and cardio, Pilates, yoga, Tai Chi, Zumba and Dancercise, alongside hundreds of on-demand workouts. Members also have access to nutrition support, physiotherapy guidance, Fitness MOT assessments and social activities.
For more information about Jim’s Gym, visit www.jimsgym.fitness
