Active Aging

4 ACTIVE AGING WEEK SEPTEMBER 23-29, 2018 Accumulate the capital For more information, visit cropo.com 1442 Main St., Winnipeg, MB 204-586-8044 OPENING FALL 2018 SECOND LOCATION 1800 Day St. Sport Manitoba is partnering with Active Aging in Manitoba (AAIM) to offer an event called the Active Aging in Manitoba Expo: Toward Sport for Life. This collaborative expo is set for Monday, Oct. 1 at the Canada Games Sport for Life Centre, located at 145 Pacific Ave. This free event, which runs from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., will feature 10 free fitness classes geared specifically for older adults. These 30-minute sample classes focus on topics such as posture, gentle yoga, strength and conditioning, and much more. Giulia De Leo, Sport Manitoba fitness centre manager, highlights some of the expo's attractions. "We'll be showcasing sports in our court facilities led by some of our provincial sport organizations. There will also be a trade show with booths promoting active aging, nutrition and fitness. There will be tours throughout the new facility, which is great, and there will be lots of chances to win prizes. We'll also have our running coach leading some of our walking and running programs," she says. "The event is open to anyone, and we are targeting older adults who are interested in learning more about fitness as well as how some of our programs and services can help support them in their fitness goals." She points to a six-week program called Active Agers, which aims to improve strength, balance, flexibility and mobility. This low-impact program starts Oct. 12, and a posture workshop will also be offered in October. No matter what type of activity you choose, it's clear to see the benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle. "It's preventative, so it can reduce the risk of disease and injury, falls and fractures. It can also help to prevent heart disease, cancer and diabetes. It can decrease blood pressure and hypertension, and it helps you maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints. It can decrease anxiety and depression, and it's a really great way to meet new people in the community and build some friendships. It helps people to stay independent and social as they age," she says. "In a facility like ours, having all those programs that target older adults can help improve their quality of life while keeping them moving well." As a special promotion, a trial membership for the fitness centre will be available for $25, which includes eight fitness classes. "We're encouraging people to come and Active Aging Expo encourages fitness for life BY JENNIFER MCFEE FOR THE FREE PRESS Two local organizations are teaming up to encourage older Manitobans to keep active throughout every age and stage of life.

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