A Sense of Achievement: Larraine's Strength for Life Journey

This is Larraine, one of our participants who has been doing the Strength for Life program for over 8 years and still continues.  Below is her story of how the Strength for Life Program has helped her.

How did you find out about the Strength for Life Program?

My Strength for Life journey started about 8 years ago and although I was walking for about 45-60 minutes almost every day with my dog and gardening, I realized it was not enough when I was diagnosed with osteoporosis.  I needed physical activities for bones, i.e.: weight bearing and strength training.  Coincidently and fortunately I had read about the Living Longer Living Stronger classes in a local paper article and that sounded like what I was looking for.

Did you find the referral process easy?

The GP was great and all for it!

How long have you been doing Strength for Life for?

Over 8 years now and I attend 2 sessions per week.

How has the program benefited you?

By going to the classes, it means I have contributed to my health, well-being and quality of life.  I would not be able to maintain the gardens, clean the windows, gutters, pool and house if I did not continue with the classes as my strength, mobility, balance, fitness and health have been improved with the regular exercise and equipment usage.  My proud family have even bought me weights and bands for use at home, which I must confess I’m not very good at maintaining a routine for them, that’s why I attend the class!!  But I don’t let on to them!  If I am inspired and remember to do so, I can integrate some of the balancing and stretching exercises into my daily routine.  If I didn’t do Strength for Life classes I wouldn’t be able to do all this stuff at home.

Sometimes it’s hard to be motivated to go to the 1 hour classes, but having a commitment to a class is an incentive as it means I find less excused and obstacles for not going.  The physical and psychological advantages makes it all worthwhile AND it also provides you with an opportunity to socialize with other class members and maybe go for a coffee afterwards!!

Another benefit is my private health fund extra’s covers entitles me to a rebate so it becomes a low cost program for promoting health, strength and fitness.

Another advantage is I do not have to buy expensive Active Wear!

What is your favorite part about going to Strength for Life?

Feeling good afterwards!  Feeling the sense of achievement. I am doing something I have to do but also want to do.

What would you say to someone who wants to join but isn’t sure?

There are so many benefits!  Just do it!  Go there with a positive mindset and embrace it.  Make it apart of your life/routine.