Supergrans Giving Fitness A Go

Two local women are rolling back the clock and getting fit after joining Lakes Leisure's Alpine Health & Fitness Centre.

Friends Tilly Grant and Sharon Burke, both in their 60s, are such regular visitors to the Centre that they've been nicknamed the 'Supergrans' by Lakes Leisure staff.

They visit together three times a week, working out with a combination of group fitness classes and specific exercise programmes designed by their personal trainers.

Tilly says neither had ever joined a gym before, but they liked the facilities and friendly atmosphere at Alpine Health & Fitness.

"When we first joined, our personal trainers sat down with us and talked about our goals and reasons for joining. They explained the different group classes and how to use the fitness equipment. Everyone has made us very welcome and we've never felt out of place," she said.

"Sharon is a big fan of Zumba but I prefer Pilates. Because gym membership includes free use of the pool, we also like to swim 50 lengths every Friday to keep in extra shape."

Alpine Health & Fitness Manager Richie Heap says Lakes Leisure’s goal is to provide accessible facilities under one roof so that people of all ages and abilities can keep active.

“We understand that some people can find some gyms a bit intimidating. That’s why we’ve created a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere with a range of facilities to suit people from all walks of life,” he said.

"The Supergrans are keen as, and great fun to have around. Their positive attitude and willingness to give it a go really sum up what the Centre is all about."

Regular attendance is clearly paying dividends for Tilly.

"I feel better about myself and I'm even hitting the golf ball further!" she said.

ENDS

About Lakes Leisure:
Lakes Leisure is responsible for the management of the district’s publically owned venues and sports and leisure facilities. That includes 41 hectares of sports fields, five venues and three pools across the district.

Lakes Leisure Ltd was formed in January 2008 by the Queenstown Lakes District Council and given a mandate to manage the delivery of leisure and recreation services and facilities to the Southern Lakes District. It is a Council-Controlled Organisation (CCO) and a not-for-profit limited liability company.