Silverfit, the charity which promotes physical activity for older people, has launched a series of physical activity audio sessions which can be followed over the phone.
The ‘Silverfit@Home’ sessions are designed for those older people who are not able to access the charity’s videos online.
The service, which has a dedicated phone number, will be particularly helpful for anyone who might struggle with technology platforms or is isolating or shielding at home because of Covid-19.
Eddie Brocklesby, founder and CEO of Silverfit, said: “I was surprised when we discovered how many of us older people only had a landline, and might therefore be even more affected by lockdown, and a lack of opportunities to be physically active. So we asked three of our popular instructors to try out audio sessions – it would be great to get some feedback!”
There are currently three sessions to choose from that range from between 15 to 20 minutes, and can be followed over the phone at any time of the day.
- A fitness session with Emily, great for working on strength, cardio and co-ordination
- An easy Yoga session with Chris working on joints
- A Pilates session with Brigit, a mat and a small cushion would be useful to have for this session
Silverfit is keen for members and non-members to try these sessions at their leisure and to pass this number on to any other people who aren’t digitally connected and would benefit from following exercise sessions over the phone. Calls to the number 0207 186 1001 will be the same as standard rate on a landline/pay as you go mobile or included in minutes on a mobile plan.
Meanwhile TSB is supporting the charity to launch the Silverfit 10 Challenge with the aim of promoting intergenerational fitness. According to recent research, when younger and older people interact and share experiences, it can help reduce the risk of depression, cognitive decline and dementia in over-65s.
The Silverfit 10 Challenge seeks to pair people from different generations with a goal of walking, running or jogging a collective 10,000 miles during the months of August and September. To participate, teams consisting of one younger person (aged eight to 25) and one older person (45+) will walk, run or jog a distance related to the number 10 – be it 10 miles or 100 between the pair.
Teams will be encouraged to set their own challenges and attempt to gain sponsors for reaching them, with funds shared between Silverfit and the children’s ward at Ashford and St Peter’s Hospitals’ Charity.
“The Silverfit mission is to combat social isolation and promote happier, healthier ageing through physical activity,” said Eddie. “The Silverfit 10 Challenge not only supports this mission, but it allows us to do so during a time when our usual community meet-ups are on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic.”
Visit silverfit.org.uk to find out more.
