Free fitness for over 50s

Posted on 31 January, 2019

After we published our ‘Exercise options for mums’, we had a request to create a similar editorial for women over 50 – including retired and older ages – with a focus on free and low-cost options.

Of course, women over 50 can join in any regular gym or fitness program—age is no barrier to being active! But if you’re looking for specially-targeted programs that fit the criteria above, there are many options available in Canberra. Here are just a few ideas. 

OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT STATIONS

With over 20 locations across the Territory, there’s sure to be an equipment station near you. Each is equipped for a variety of exercises, with circuit suggestions and movement instructions often found nearby.

Better yet, many are situated next to playgrounds, which can provide a whole host of different active opportunities or just a way to keep any children entertained while you complete your own exercise session.

EMBRACE THE NATURE WALKS

Canberra is fondly known as ‘The Bush Capital’ for good reason and opportunities to discover the local wildlife while improving fitness are plentiful.

Shorter sections of the 145km Canberra Centenary Trail are a great place to start, as well trekking up gentle slopes and around the city’s various lakes. The Australian Botanical Gardens also offer free steady-paced guided walks around their different displays (bookings essential).

LIVE LIFE GET ACTIVE PROGRAM

This Glebe Park-based initiative offers a mixture of free small-group classes for all ages, catering to all different abilities.

Run every weekday from 12 pm-12.45 pm opposite Canberra Executive Apartments, there is the choice of boxing, X-Training and Yoga depending on personal requirements. All classes aim to improve overall health amidst a social outdoor atmosphere

CANBERRA SENIORS CENTRE

Found on Watson Street in Turner, this community centre offers options for participants over 50. With nearly 400 members from across Canberra, there is also the added benefit of completing exercise classes in a friendly social environment. Active activities include Ageing with Attitude, Jazzercise, Latin dancing, Table Tennis, Yoga and Line Dancing.

Make sure to place a phone call on 6248 9509 for further information.

For those happy to purchase a membership, the YMCA PrYme Mover classes are an excellent option as one of Canberra’s leading provider of older adult fitness options.

Novice riding classes are also available from Cycle Education and SheRides for those looking to get back on the bike.

LOW-IMPACT GYM CLASS TRIALS

Many chain and independent gyms offer the chance to try their first sessions without charge or give patrons the first week or two of gym entry fees at no cost, so you can see if it’s right for you.

Gentle and light-paced activity focussing on core strength, cardio endurance and overall health ensure attendees retain and improve their fundamental fitness skills. Check out options like the Super Seniors class at Fitness First and Over 50s groups at Fernwood.