Looking to get healthy this year? The Healthy Sunshine Coast program might just be the ticket to a healthier 2021.
The program kicked off in February but will be on-going throughout the year with new and existing activities available for those of all ages and fitness levels.
Sunshine Coast Council Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said the program gives people a chance to take part in a variety of free and low cost activities/
He said there would always be something new to encourage more people to get involved.
“People can participate in many free classes including yoga in the Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Gardens, at Bankfoot House Heritage Precinct and Buderim Town Park, plus Zumba at Kings Beach,” Cr Law said.
“There are low-cost classes such as tai chi at Maroochydore, aqua fitness at Nambour Aquatic Centre, yoga and circuit in council parks and senior fitness classes in Beerwah, Mapleton and Yandina.
“One of the primary goals of our Sunshine Coast Community Strategy 2019-2041 is to empower our community to live healthy and active lifestyles, which is what Healthy Sunshine Coast is designed to do.”
Division 1 Councillor Rick Baberowski said he had been eager to see classes start across the Sunshine Coast.
“I’m delighted to see a new program includes yoga and meditation at the Bankfoot House Heritage Precinct at the Glass House Mountains,” Cr Baberowski said.
Healthy Sunshine Coast service provider Taz Calandruccio, of All-in-One Fitness Beerwah, said the program was very beneficial for everyone participating.
“Particularly for our seniors, it’s so good for them to join in group exercise and for those who may feel a bit lonely. They get involved and end up creating a community and catch-up after class,” Mr Calandruccio said.
Yoga instructor Theresa Walker-Langley instructs the Bankfoot House Mountain Movement class and said outdoor classes in the program were an added bonus.
“We’ve got beautiful fresh air and we’re embracing nature while treating your body as well. It’s very good for you,” she said.
Beerwah resident Leo O’Mara, 77, is currently taking part in the senior classes at Beerwah Community Hall.
“The comradery of the people who go is just fantastic,” Mr O’Mara said.
“They’re great instructors and help you with any moves that you do. They make sure you go at your pace and supply chairs if you want to sit down while exercising.
“I like to exercise every day and what I find is we get into social groups. We go and get a coffee afterwards and have a chat. It’s quite nice really.
“The classes are so affordable and I think people would get a lot out of it if they came along. Everyone is very friendly.”
