Keeping our bodies active as we get older is an important part of the healthy ageing process. Being physically active has many benefits and is important for your physical, mental, and social health and wellbeing.
As we get older, our bodies naturally lose muscle mass and the ability to balance, however there are things we can do to stop, and even reverse these changes! Completing strength and balance exercises for 30 minutes on most days is recommended to reduce your risk of having a fall.
Local Governments in WA have made moving your body free and simple with outdoor fitness equipment.
Across Local Governments in WA, outdoor fitness equipment has been installed at parks and reserves to encourage older Western Australians to stay active. Outdoor fitness equipment offers a range of movements and exercises to strengthen legs, build balance, and overall build confidence in older adults to move their bodies.
In 2021, the City of Armadale was successful in receiving a Stay On Your Feet® Move Your Body grant to install outdoor fitness equipment to support local older adults to build their strength and balance to prevent falls.
“As a Local Government, we have a responsibility to enable our community to maintain healthy lifestyles through all stages of life.”
City of Armadale Mayor, Ruth Butterfield
If you’re not quite sure how to use outdoor fitness equipment then not to worry; alongside outdoor fitness equipment you can also find easy to understand signage to show you how to use the equipment to exercise safely. The City of Armadale has also developed a suite of Move Your Body workout sheets if you’re not sure where to get started. Some local councils even run exercise classes with their outdoor fitness equipment for community members.
City of Armadale outdoor fitness equipment signage and Move Your Body workout sheet
Get in touch with your local council and find out which parks or reserves near you feature outdoor fitness equipment. By making use of the numerous fitness equipment sites across WA, preventing falls can become part of your routine!
Do you still prefer to move your body in the comfort of your own home? Check out our Stay On Your Feet® Strengthen Your Legs and Build Your Balance exercise flyers.
Please note: When starting a new activity, it is best to start slow and not overdo it, so that your body gets used to the exercise and you avoid injury. If you are unsure, speak to your doctor or GP, Physiotherapist, or another health professional for advice on suitable strength and balance exercises to get started.