Education Course and Exercise Classes
Who can benefit?
- The course is designed for men and women who have osteoporosis, mild or severe and for those at risk of developing the disease.
- Any age person or level of fitness is welcome. We can accomodate extremely fit people who exercise every day or those dependant on walking aids.
- The age group of the participants is currently 40 - 85 years, some being moderately disabled, while others have other illnesses as well.
What are the requirements?
- All participants are expected to fill in a form indicating problems, difficulties and level of fitness.
- Application forms must be signed by a doctor giving permission to exercise.
- All participants must be a member of the OSSG before participating in any activities offered by the group.
Aims of the education course
- To provide an understanding of osteoporosis and answer individual questions.
- To emphasise the importance of regular exercise.
- To assist the participants develop individualised homebased exercise regimes. Risks and precautions are highlighted.
- To educate members about postural awareness.
- To provide a back care program
- To provide knowledge about good nutrition and calcium intake.
- To provide a practical guide to pain management.
- To provide physical, emotional and psychological support.
- To share experiences.
About the exercise classes
- The classes are held in a spacious, air conditioned room.
- Members must have completed the course before joining the exercise classes thus ensuring that they are aware of the benefits, risks and special precautions realted to each individual case.
- Classes are ongoing throughout the year.
- The classes last for 1 hour and are backed by music.
- Water is provided throughout the class.
- Tea and Coffee are available after the class to encourage social interaction.
Class Structure
- Warm up - beginning with movement of major muscle groups
- Weight bearing Aerobic - including balance and coordination
- Cool Down
- Strengthening - all muscle groups
- Stretching
- Relaxation
Specific precautions emphasised
- No exercises involving bending, twisting, lifting, jolting or risk of falling
Recommendations for home
-
Walking 3-5 times per week, for between 35 and 60 minutes.
- Include specific strengthening, balance and stretching exercises twice a week.
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