Charity urges people to ‘Keep Moving and Keep Warm’ this winter

Local charity Community Resource has launched a campaign to highlight the importance of staying active throughout the winter months.

The Shrewsbury-based organisation is urging people to ‘Keep Moving, Keep Warm’ to fight off the winter gloom and maintain their strength and fitness throughout the year.

Community Resource runs events across the county to help people with their fitness and wellbeing. It also supports the Association of Shropshire Exercise Teachers (ASET), a group of teachers who deliver classes for older people and for those who need additional guidance due to mobility issues. 

Susie Hancock, Development Officer for Community Resource, said: “As the days are shorter and we head into winter, it can be difficult to feel motivated to do exercises, but it is more important than ever to keep active.

“For older people in particular it is vital to practise strength and balance exercises to reduce the risk of falling. There are community classes for over 60s across Shropshire where people can meet up with friends and socialise while also being active. It’s a great way to warm up!”

A 2021 report by the Centre for Ageing Better found that nearly a quarter of people aged 50 to 70 do less than thirty minutes of physical activity a week.

And according to recent government findings, an increase in activity levels of just 10%, compared to 2020, could potentially save more than 4,500 older adults from having a fall.

ASET members operate across Shropshire and teach classes including chair-based exercises, Tai Chi, Upright and Active, Postural Stability, Pilates, Zumba Gold and exercise to music.

ASET member Ruth Morriss runs nine classes in Shrewsbury and South Shropshire. She said: “Attending an exercise class taught by me or one of the other ASET teachers is the ideal option if you want some additional support. We understand and can adapt our lessons to meet people's needs, fitness levels and mobility so they have the chance to be active at a level that’s right for them.”

For more information on ASET classes in your area, please contact [email protected]