For more than six years Norma has encouraged members of the Young at Heart (YAH) senior gym to keep moving! She leads by example in balance and weight, showing us seniors how beneficial regular exercise is. Not just on the two mornings we have classes but through our private facebook page.
Twice a week Norma organises an hour long exercise class for seniors here in Pirongia. We do a ten minute warm-up to fast 70s music, seventeen 90seconds at seventeen weight and balance stations set up around the room, followed by another ten minutes of stretches. This routine is changed every four weeks. She continually pushes the boundaries, encouraging us all to follow (to our own ability) which we do because Norma is so inspiring - 80yo next year she's a machine! Her warm welcome when we walk in the door is contagious, hugs and chatter before we start are so important. New ladies feel welcome from day one. And while we all help set and and put away it's Norma who is the driving force. She says she's just one of us, and she is, but without her it wouldn't happen.
We regularly support charities such as Foodbank, Breast Cancer, and local families in need (accessed through the school) by way of food parcels or our excess funds in kitty at end of year, but our main function is to encourange fun and fellowship, by regualr excercising. Initiated of course by Norma.
With an average age of 75yo, we have an attendance of approx 12 twice a week, some only once a week but the majority are there both Wednesday and Fridays. It gives those women a reason to get out and meet others. And because it's first thing in the morning, 9.15-10.15, we still have the rest of the day to do other things. Many will walk or bike giving them more exercise.
More than six years ago, the gym closed at Pirongia Sport's Club, so a group of seniors decided to form their own, Norma had completed a Sport Waikato course so stepped up to get things moving. Cost is minimum - just $2 per session - so very affordable. This covers the weekly hall hire, any excess is given to a worthy cause at the end of the year.
The Community Centre benefits from our weekly rental of the hall.
We also treat ourselves to a group coffee session - so benefiting a local business.
The positive experience is proved by YAH members continue attendance, their willingness to help set up or pack down, by promoting newcomers, who feel inclusive as soon as they walk in the door. Those who aren't able to attend for a while (due to family or injury), come back to a great welcome, when they do come back. No one is ever forgotten about. Birthdays and special days are recognised, We occasionally dress up for special occasions. Stand outside the door on a Wednesday or Friday when we're there and you'd think we were a group of kids! This is what Norma, in particular, has encouraged. Our name Young at heart says it all. Norma - front row far right - of group photo
