Sport England launches 10-minute audio exercise routines to help older people stay active during coronavirus lockdown
Sport England has launched a 10-minute audio exercise routine aimed at keeping older people healthy and active during the coronavirus lockdown.
The routines, which can be accessed via BBC Sounds, have been inspired by Japan’s Radio Taiso, which broadcast a popular national exercise programme in Japan that focuses on getting older people stretching and moving at home.
With 7.4 million people aged over 70 in England, there is concern at the potential physical and mental health impacts of the coronavirus restrictions.
The ‘10 Today’ routine follows the launch of Sport England’s new ‘Join the Movement’ campaign to encourage people of all ages to be active at home.
“During self-isolation, I’m embracing the chance to stay active - I hope we can inspire others to move more and simply feel better during this time,” said Terry Keen, the 73-year-old fitness instructor who created and fronts the ‘10 Today’ series.
Sport England chief executive Tim Hollingsworth added: “As we all commit to stay home, save lives and protect the NHS - being active, and the mental and physical boost it can bring has never been more important. This is especially true for older people, many who will also be managing the loneliness of being separated from children and grandchildren at this time.”
A pilot scheme of 1,750 older people took part in the '10 Today routines and reported improved mood and sleep patterns, better balance, fewer aches, pains, and improved joint problems.
“Whatever our age, we’re all spending much more time in our homes than we’re used to, and it can be challenging to stay active,” said Anna Dixon, the chief executive of the Centre for Ageing Better.
“It’s particularly important that as we get older, we do activities to maintain our muscle strength and balance. There are plenty of exercises we can all do at home without any specialist equipment. Sometimes it can be hard to know what activities to do or to stay motivated to do them regularly. So it’s great to see the launch of these daily exercises.”
