Celebrating Health And Wellbeing at the Aquatic Centre

Participants in the Coastlands Aquatic Centre bi-annual Health and Wellness Programme celebrated the end of their 10 week fitness journey this month.

The programme is led by Aquatic Centre team members, Glenn Buglass and Jess Taylforth, and is offered on referral from Hora Te Pai Health Services and through the GP Green Prescription system. Thanks to the sponsorship of the Kapiti Coast District Council, Compass Health, Sport Wellington and Bidfood, this programme is provided to participants fee-free.

Parks and Recreation Manager, Alison Law, says the Centre’s programme has been designed to help those in need of a helping hand to improve their wellbeing, including managing weight-related issues.

“The programme takes a holistic approach to helping its participants by considering the impact social, mental, physical and nutritional factors have on a person’s wellbeing,” she says.

“The physical part of the programme is aquatic-based and encourages participants to try low-impact activities including Aqua-fit, Aqua-ease, Aqua-jogging and walking,” Ms Law says.

Non-pool exercise is also included with an introduction to Zumba, Yoga and low-intensity group fitness. Specialist speakers from a variety of providers speak about heart disease, diabetes, mental health, arthritis as well as economical homes.

Individual progress is measured throughout programme by testing weight, waist, and blood pressure measurements, a timed walk and a strength test.

“Overall feedback and results for the programme have been excellent,” Ms Law says.

“The amount of mobility participants regain through being active and participating in low-impact exercise is really impressive.”

“The social aspect is really important too giving participants the opportunity to meet others on similar journeys and naturally support and motivate one another. Those relationships are an essential part of ensuring people can stay on track with their wellness goals.”

Education and resources also assist people to make better food choices, teach them how to read food labels and compare the nutritional value of similar products. Ms Law says that this latest programme introduced a group cooking session which was a great success.

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