Act Now, Age Better
We're supporting the national Act Now, Age Better campaign - bringing together the world of sport, physical activity and movement to open doors to new ways of moving in midlife.
People in midlife put off exercise for life by school PE lessons - as new Age UK campaign calls on Sussex to Act Now, Age Better
New research released today, as part of national charity Age UK’s Act Now, Age Better campaign, reveals that negative early PE experiences are one of the barriers stopping thousands of those aged 50-65 from being physically active. Data shows that for many, this began decades ago as 950,000 in the South East used to dread school PE lessons.
The campaign encourages mid-lifers to be active so they can live their best possible later life. With 560,000 mid-lifers in the South East still feeling traumatised by PE lessons and 540,000 in the region put off exercise and sport for life by PE at school, Age UK, the national charity, is bringing together the world of sport, physical activity and movement, on a scale not seen before, to inspire and encourage mid‑lifers to give PE another go. And for those who used to enjoy it but may have fallen out of the habit, to rediscover the joy that sport can bring.
With sports groups now more inclusive, supportive and welcoming than they were 30-40 years ago, there’s never been a better time for mid-lifers to reconnect with fitness and find a community that truly embraces them.
Jo Clarke, Deputy Chief Executive at Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove said: “Many people think Age UK is just for those who are frail or need support, but we’ve got a huge range of clubs and classes that are open to anyone over 50. People can try things like pilates, spin classes, Zumba and martial arts in our centres. Our gym in Bognor Regis can cater to anyone, whether they are marathon training, or recovering from an operation. Why not see what’s on near you? Not only will you get the immediate benefits in midlife – you’re likely to stay spritely later on too.”
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Bognor Regis based Jacqueline Hooton, Personal Trainer, Pro-age champion, and Author said: “I’m always encouraging people to live stronger for longer, so it’s fantastic to see this national campaign getting such widespread support. If you get moving in your 50s or 60s, you’re likely to thank yourself for that in your 70s and 80s. It’s an incredibly sound investment in your future.”
Support us
Age UK WSBH relies on donations to help purchase new sports equipment, pilot new clubs and classes and run activities to help older people age better.
Those who would like to support the charity’s work can donate online or text 'livewell' to 70191 to give £10.
The organisation is a network partner of Age UK, but is an independent charity, raising its own funds which are all spent locally.
Find out more
As well as showcasing a variety of sports and group activities, Age UK is offering practical tips and ideas to help even the most sport-sceptical give movement a go.