5 Great Ways to Stay Active in Newham

Staying active and maintaining a sense of wellbeing is vital at any age, and for older people this is especially pertinent. Exercise can be both a way to improve physical health as well as a means of staying socially connected.

Fortunately for the residents of Newham, there are a range of exercise and wellness opportunities tailored to the needs and interests of older adults.

Atherton Leisure Centre

Atherton Leisure Centre is a well-established facility in Newham that offers a diverse range of fitness classes designed to cater to various age groups, with several adapted specifically for older adults. The centre’s commitment to providing accessible exercise programmes makes it an ideal choice for those who wish to remain active in a supportive environment.

Fitness classes include options that are particularly suitable for the elderly, with several low impact classes on offer, including gentle aerobics, yoga, and Pilates.

These classes are designed to enhance flexibility, balance and overall strength without placing undue stress on joints. This helps to improve cardiovascular fitness and contribute to better posture and mobility.

Highlights include:

• Low Impact, High Benefit: Classes that focus on gentle movements ensure that participants can exercise safely. This is crucial for older people who may be more prone to joint discomfort or have a lower baseline of physical fitness.
• Group Environment: The group classes at Atherton Leisure Centre help to build a sense of community and social engagement. For many older adults, the opportunity to meet and interact with like‐minded peers can be as beneficial as the exercise itself.
• Qualified Instructors: With experienced trainers guiding each session, participants can be confident that the exercises are adapted to suit their capabilities while still being challenging enough to deliver tangible health benefits.

Atherton Leisure Centre: 189 Romford Rd, London E15 4JF

Newham Leisure Centre

Newham Leisure Centre is a busy facility offering a wide variety of activities designed to cater to all ages. The centre’s activity schedule is packed with options that support both physical and mental wellbeing, making it a popular destination for older adults.

Activities include water-based exercises like aqua aerobics, which are particularly gentle on the joints, as well as low-impact aerobic classes, strength and balance training, and even dance classes that allow participants to have fun while keeping fit.

Newham Leisure Centre takes a holistic approach to wellness, recognising that regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of chronic conditions, improve mood, and enhance overall quality of life.

Highlights include:

• Water-Based Workouts: Aqua aerobics are an excellent option for older adults because the buoyancy of water reduces the strain on muscles and joints while still providing resistance for a good workout.
• Structured Classes: With sessions led by trained professionals, older adults benefit from structured routines that are safe and effective. This ensures that participants can achieve a balanced workout that covers cardiovascular, strength, and flexibility training.
• Comprehensive Activity Offerings: As a larger leisure centre, there are a wide variety of classes and activities available, meaning older people can always remain interested and engaged without the risk of boredom.

Newham Leisure Centre: 281 Prince Regent Lane, London E13 8SD

East Ham Leisure Centre

Situated in the heart of Newham, East Ham Leisure Centre has a vibrant community spirit and a comprehensive suite of exercise classes.

The centre places a strong emphasis on inclusivity and caters well to the needs of elderly residents. It offers an assortment of exercise programmes that include gentle aerobic workouts, low-impact stretching, and balance-enhancing sessions.

These activities are designed with older adults in mind, ensuring that the intensity is appropriate and that the exercises promote longevity and sustained health improvements.

Highlights include:

• Tailored for All Abilities: Recognising that each individual has different fitness levels, East Ham Leisure Centre provides options that can be modified to suit everyone from beginners to those with more experience.
• Focus on Balance and Flexibility: Many classes incorporate balance and flexibility exercises, which are crucial for preventing falls and maintaining mobility as we age.
• Friendly, Welcoming Atmosphere: The centre is known for its community feel, offering a warm and inviting space where older adults can meet others, make new friends, and build a supportive network.

East Ham Leisure Centre, 324 Barking Rd, London E6 2RT

The Line: Wellbeing Walks

For many elderly individuals, walking is an ideal form of exercise. It is low impact, accessible, and can be both refreshing and socially engaging.

The Line hosts weekly Wellbeing Walks and provides a structured way for older people to enjoy the benefits of regular walking in a supportive group setting.

Participants can expect guided walks through various parts of Newham, often incorporating scenic routes that allow participants to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. These walks are designed to be gentle yet effective, encouraging participants to maintain a moderate level of physical activity while also reaping mental health benefits.

Highlights include:

• Accessible Exercise: Walking is one of the simplest forms of exercise, and these guided walks ensure that even those with limited mobility can participate comfortably.
• Social Interaction: By joining a group of like-minded individuals, older adults can combat feelings of isolation. The social aspect of the walks can help to develop lasting friendships and a strengthened sense of community.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation: The guided nature of these walks not only promotes physical health but also encourages mindfulness. Participants can focus on their surroundings, which helps in reducing stress and improving overall mental wellbeing.

The Line: Wellbeing Walks: Jim & Tonic at The Print House, 133 High Street, E15 2RB

Health Walks at Itchycoo Ecology Pond

Itchycoo Ecology Pond is a hidden gem nestled within a wooded corner of Beckton Park. For those who enjoy combining exercise with a bit of nature, this Health Walk offers an ideal solution.

These walks provide an opportunity for older people to engage in gentle exercise while exploring the ecological and environmental features of this beautifully revitalised area.

The walks are carefully planned excursions that guide participants around the pond area, highlighting interesting aspects of the local flora and fauna. The walks are designed to be accessible and enjoyable, with a focus on providing a relaxed pace that encourages conversation and contemplation.

Highlights include:

• Low-Impact Activity: Similar to The Line: Wellbeing Walks, these health walks offer a gentle form of exercise that is easy on the joints, making them perfect for anyone with mobility concerns.
• Engagement with Nature: Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and promote mental clarity. The scenic backdrop of Itchycoo Ecology Pond enhances the experience, providing both physical and emotional benefits.
• Educational Component: The walks often include information about the local ecosystem, giving participants a chance to learn more about the natural environment. This educational aspect adds an extra layer of engagement, making the activity both informative and enjoyable.

Itchycoo Ecology Pond: Beckton Corridor, Beckton Park, London E6 5QJ

How Home Instead can help

Regular exercise is not just about keeping fit, it is about enhancing overall quality of life. Home Instead Canary Wharf can help to build and maintain a quality of life even when circumstances seem difficult.

Whether it’s enabling better mobility around the home, assisting with physical activity, or helping with daily living activities, Home Instead Canary Wharf can make a real difference to the quality of life for everyone.

Our Care Professionals are highly trained to build trusting relationships and support individuals living with a range of physical and mental disabilities, brain injuries, and dementia. Every Care Professional is carefully chosen for their kindness, empathy, and warmth.

We take time to learn what is important to the individual and their family, so our support is tailored to their needs.

We make sure the same Care Professionals visit each time, which is especially important not only for continuity of care, but also in building a trusting and effective relationship, as well as to help those with memory issues to recognise familiar faces.

Home Instead Canary Wharf has been rated as Outstanding by the CQC and our person-centred philosophy of care is focused on providing the highest quality service possible across Tower Hamlets, Newham and Barking.

So if you are curious about how we can help you, call our friendly team today on 0203 713 3161, or send us a message and someone will get back to you within 24 hours.