Movement is something we use every day, often without even thinking about it. Getting out of a chair, walking to the shops, climbing the stairs or spending time doing the things we enjoy all involve movement.
Staying active can help us maintain our strength, balance and mobility, supporting us in everyday life as we get older.
Supporting everyday activities
The strength and mobility we build through regular physical activity can support many of the movements we make each day.
Simple activities such as standing up from a chair, reaching for something, carrying shopping or walking around the home all require us to use different muscles and movements.
Keeping active can help us continue doing these everyday activities and support our independence.
Movement can look different for everyone
Being active doesn’t have to mean completing a difficult workout or spending hours exercising.
It could be going for a walk, joining an exercise class, gardening, doing some gentle movements at home or simply getting up and moving more regularly throughout the day.
Movement can also be adapted to different abilities. In Siel Bleu Ireland classes, exercises can be completed seated or standing and adapted so participants can take part at a level that suits them.
More than the physical benefits
Movement isn’t only about strength, balance and mobility.
Taking part in a class or activity can also be an opportunity to meet people, have a chat and enjoy moving together.
Our classes bring people together in communities, nursing homes, day centres and online, providing an opportunity to stay active while also staying connected.
Finding ways to keep moving
There is no one way to stay active. What works for one person may be completely different for someone else.
Finding something you enjoy can make movement easier to include in your routine. Whether it’s a walk, a class, some gentle exercises or simply moving more throughout your day, it all counts.
Small opportunities to move can help us stay active, maintain our independence and continue doing the things we enjoy.