Free suburban exercise program proves a hit

Free exercise and wellbeing classes will continue to be rolled out across the city after a successful trial of Council’s Active Living program in the Suburbs.

Building on the popularity of Active Living program (formerly Fun Free Fitness) that has been held on the Esplanade for over 16 years, a 12-week trial of the suburban program proved a hit with residents.

Council has secured a further $30,000 from North Queensland Sports Foundation Health & Wellbeing to continue the Active Living Suburbs program for another 30 weeks.

The program, provided with assistance from the North Queensland Sports Foundation (NQSF) and the North Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN), is delivered in Mooroobool, Brinsmead, Redlynch, Edmonton, Gordonvale, Yorkeys Knob and Trinity Beach in addition to the Esplanade.

Division 8 Councillor and NQSF chair Jessie Richardson said classes were delivered in a fun, healthy and supportive environment.

“These free classes are about encouraging residents to get outside and get active in an enjoyable and social environment,” Cr Richardson said.

“We want to give residents the chance to get out and active to improve their health, close to home.

“There are so many health benefits associated with exercise, from weight loss and fitness, to reducing the risks of chronic disease and lifting energy levels.”

Cr Richardson said the classes were age, gender and ability inclusive.

“Importantly, these classes are rolled out so it doesn’t matter your age, gender, body shape or how coordinated you are, it’s all about providing a safe, welcoming and non-judgemental environment where people feel comfortable to participate,” Cr Richardson said.

“There are a variety of classes, from Tai Chi to Zumba and sessions designed specifically for seniors, all delivered by qualified instructors.

“Whether you become an exercise junkie or not, the chance to meet new people and chat to your neighbours is worth the effort in itself.”

For more information visit Council website www.cairns.qld.gov.au or call 4044 3725.

Program details:

Edmonton – Ravizza Park Monday 9am, Tai Chi Wednesday 5.30pm, Fitness for All Friday 5.30pm, ZumbaTrinity Beach – Beachfront Tuesday 9am, Seniors Thursday 9am, Fitness for AllYorkeys Knob – Simms Esplanade Wednesday 9am, Tai Chi Thursday 5:30pm, Fitness for AllMooroobool –Shang Park Monday 5.30pm, Fitness for All Wednesday 5.30pm, Fitness for AllBrinsmead – Loridan Drive Park Monday 5pm, ZumbaRedlynch – Byron Park Tuesday 5pm, Fitness for AllGordonvale – Norman Park Thursday 5.30pm, Zumba