Senior citizens get sporty during lockdown

With outdoor exercise now allowed, Nan Clarke, a Rand Aid’s Elphin Lodge retirement village resident, set up an exercise circuit for fellow residents to enjoy.

Clarke, a SA Seniors Fitness Association instructor, set up the circuit to get residents moving during lockdown.

The circuit consists of five exercise stations situated at five of the complex?s outdoor benches.Before they get their blood pumping participants are given a map.

The map indicates the location of the benches and what type of exercise should be done at each bench, plus movement instructions.

The movement instructions are designed to work on warming up, breathing and balance, stretching, flexibility, cardio and cooling down.

While on the circuit social distancing is adhered to and only two people may use an exercise station at any given time.

“The circuit is a wonderful opportunity to get moving during this time of lockdown and to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine in a safe environment,” said Debbie Christen, Rand Aid manager of recreational programmes.

Clarke who works one-on-one with some of the residents shows them how to do the exercises correctly.

She says the circuit takes about an hour.

Clarke encouraged more residents to take part, as exercising with a friend, while practising social distancing, is a lot more fun than doing it alone.