Nundle local, Trish Leonard dearly missed her GoCo weekly exercise classes during the COVID-19 lock down, for both social and physical reasons.

‘It gets us up and going and keeps us fit and strong,’ said Mrs Leonard of the Tuesday strength and balance for older people in the Nundle community, coordinated by GoCo.

Having attended the hour long sessions each week at Nundle’s Sport and Recreation Club since they began in August 2019, Mrs Leonard says it has made a huge difference to her strength and fitness.

‘The classes are really focused on our posture and strength. It’s just great for us oldies,’ Mrs Leonard said.

The hugely popular classes recommenced in Nundle this month.

Personal Trainer and Health Coach, Andrew Ryan from Kootingal Gym delivers the class on behalf of GoCo and says that some of the results have been truly amazing.

‘Some of the clients really take in everything they can and apply it to their lives. I’ve noticed people with healthier looking skin, eyes and hair, improved posture and increased confidence in addition to better fitness and strength, Mr Ryan said.

GoCo specialises in aged care services across the north west and coordinates the classes in Nundle as part of it’s Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) social groups.

GoCo CHSP Coordinator, Rachel Palmer said the classes have been very popular among GoCo’s older client group.

‘We’ve had an outstanding response to the classes in Nundle and some great feedback,’ Mrs Palmer said.

‘The idea for exercise classes in Nundle came when I identified that our group of clients were really quite fit and active,’ she said.

GoCo’s Nundle clients are very community minded and were looking for more things for their town rather than travelling into Tamworth.

‘We were overwhelmed with interest and have a waiting list for a second class,’ Mrs Palmer said.

Trainer, Mr Ryan says he thoroughly enjoys working with the seniors group.

It is challenging as everyone has very different needs, but I find it very fulfilling,’ Mr Ryan said.

‘My main focus is strengthening posture and joints, improving flexibility and mobility and helping them to maintain their overall independence,’ he said.

Participant, Mrs Leonard says despite the group setting, Andrew gives a very personal experience. ‘He is interested in us as individuals and gives us alternative exercises if we need it,’ she said.

COVID-19 restrictions and the vulnerable older age group meant GoCo had to put weekly classes on hold for a few months, but recommenced with strict rules in place in August 2020.

GoCo’s strength and balance exercise classes aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and social interaction. The program is designed to reduce your risk of falls, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and dementia.

Participants needs to be registered through My Aged Care to be eligible to attend the groups. See our Events Calendar for times. Contact GoCo for more information.