Active Life at Kirkstall Leisure Centre

A free event promoting sports to older people will kick off at Kirkstall Leisure Centre with help from special guests on Tuesday 5 October.

The Active Life campaign is an innovative project helping older people get fit and active and will provide free taster sessions in table tennis, badminton, racketball, and general aerobics.

Table tennis star Sandra Rider will be on hand to give tips. She is enjoying a remarkable year in the veteran's table tennis scene having recently returned from playing the 56th International Veteran Championships in Trier, Germany, where she won the over-50s singles event.

Badminton has been increasing in popularity within Active Life groups – held at other leisure centres – not only because it promotes physical benefits but also mental alertness.

And Brian Wallwork, current National, British, European and World Veterans Champion and Coach and Manager of the English National Junior Teams, will be at the event giving hints and tips on the game.

Members of the England Squash and Racketball Association will also be available to coach anyone interested in taking up racketball. While for those who are more interested in achieving personal goals there will be gentle exercise classes.

Leeds City Council’s older peoples’ sports development officer Allyson Bertram, said:

“We are targeting older people to help keep them fit and healthy as they age. Physical exercise slows the body’s deterioration helping to maintain muscular strength, flexibility and endurance as well as healthy bones, heart and lungs.”

Leeds City Council’s head of sport and active recreation Mark Allman said:

“We are committed to helping older people stay fit and active. Programmes at leisure centres around Leeds can offer a huge range of activities and will often cater for those with restricted mobility wanting to improve their fitness levels.”

Activities begin at 9.30am and run through to midday. Kirkstall Leisure Centre will then be hosting Active Life sessions every Tuesday and Thursday morning 9.30am to noon where people over 50 will be able to take part in a variety of activities.

Notes to editor:
• Physically active people reduce the risk of developing major chronic diseases by up to 50 per cent and the risk of premature death by between 20 and 30 per cent.
• Kirkstall Leisure Centre is on Kirkstall Lane, Leeds, LS5 3BE.
• 50 FREE places are available – please wear clothes and shoes suitable for exercise.
• To book and for further information contact Allyson Bertram Older Peoples’ Sport Development Officer Telephone: 01133950196 or email: allyson.bertram@leeds.gov.uk
• The day runs from 9.30am to 12.15pm. Activities will take place from 10am – noon when refreshments will be served.

ENDS

For media enquiries please contact: Daniel Johnson,Leisure Communications Officer, Tel: 0113 247 8285, Email: Daniel.johnson1@leeds.gov.uk