Edinburgh Leisure’s Steady Steps Programme Helps People Stay Active and Independent in Later Life
A pioneering programme helping older adults maintain their independence and reduce their risk of falls is changing lives across Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Leisure’s Steady Steps, a 16-week physical activity programme, is specifically designed to improve strength, balance, and mobility for adults who have experienced falls or are at risk of falling. The programme, delivered by specialist instructors, offers tailored exercises that can be modified to suit individual needs and abilities.
One participant who has experienced remarkable benefits is 90-year-old Sheila Mack from Edinburgh. After a knee replacement in August 2019, Sheila was referred to Steady Steps by her physiotherapist when she became reliant on a walking stick and noticed her balance declining.
“While the pandemic delayed my start until April 2021, joining Steady Steps was one of the best decisions I’ve made,” says Sheila. “The classes are fun and sociable, and everyone works at their own pace. Some exercises can even be done seated, which makes them accessible for everyone.”
The programme’s success has led many participants, including Sheila, to continue their fitness journey with Edinburgh Leisure after completing the initial 16 weeks, by signing up for a membership. Sheila now attends three weekly classes, including circuits and Strength and Balance sessions at Drumbrae.
“These classes give structure to my week and are incredibly enjoyable,” she adds. “We’ve formed a wonderful community – we often have coffee together after class and even organise social events. The instructors are very supportive, and we all look out for each other.”
The effectiveness of regular exercise is evident in Sheila’s case. Despite having had two hip replacements at 60 years and in her 70s, she maintains an active lifestyle that impressed even her GP. A recent Boditrax scan showed her metabolic age as 74 – sixteen years younger than her actual age.
Michael McLaughlin, Steady Steps instructor at Edinburgh Leisure: “Sheila is a prime example of why continuing to keep active as you age is so important. Her recent health challenges haven’t stopped her keeping moving and completing the Steady Steps programme, has given her improved confidence, better balance and strength. So much so, that we were delighted that she has continued with her fitness programme on the completion of Steady Steps.”
Steady Steps classes are delivered across Edinburgh Leisure venues, with participants exercising in small groups of up to 16 people. The 16-week course lasts for 1.5 hours each class and includes a warm-up, followed by specific exercises designed to improve balance, endurance, strength and flexibility, and finishes with a short cooldown. The programme is led by specially trained instructors who can adapt exercises to suit different mobility levels and needs.
Referrals can be made by a range of Health professionals including Physiotherapists and Occupational Therapists.
To those wondering if the programme might be right for them, Sheila’s advice is simple: “Just do it. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming. It’s helped me stay independent and active, and I’ve made great friends along the way.”
For more information about Steady Steps or to find out about referral to the programme, contact our Active Communities team on 0131 458 2260 or email: active@edinburghleisure.co.uk
ENDS
Age Scotland, SAMH, Sporting Memories and sportscotland have joined forces to launch the second phase of the “Find Your Team” campaign.
This stage of the campaign is about encouraging everyone over the age of 50 to get involved in group sport or physical activity to help overcome feelings of social isolation. It aims to show that taking part in sport or physical activity, at any age, is a great way to connect with new people and that joining a team or club can create both a sense of belonging and a shared interest.
The winter months can be a challenging time, but taking part in sport and physical activity is a great way to connect with new people and #FeelPartOfSomething. Joining a sports team or taking part in group exercise can create a sense of belonging and working together towards a common goal, and in turn support mental health and wellbeing.