We all know that being physically active is one of the most important steps people can take to improve their health and wellbeing – but did you know that strength and balance both need to be part of this activity to allow us to carry out everyday tasks?
If you are wondering how to include some strength and balance exercises into your routine, there are two simple words: Park Power!
Park Power is a series of strength and balance exercises for people of all ages, that do not require any equipment and makes use of the benches within a park – and Lurgan Park is the very first Park Power location within the borough!
Park Power guides you through seven simple exercises that will improve your balance, muscle strength and increase your coordination. Increased stability, mobility, and flexibility will make it easier for you to perform everyday tasks such as carrying shopping, opening jars and getting up from a chair, as well as reducing the risk of falls.
At seven benches in Lurgan Park you will see instructional signs detailing the exercises you can try – sit to stand, bench press, bicep curls, arm raise, front knee extension, leg flexion and one leg stand.
“Park Power is for everyone – children, adults and older adults alike – and building our strength at all ages is so important for long term health,” commented the Lord Mayor of Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Councillor Kevin Savage.
“As part of the Get Moving ABC Initiative, we hope to motivate and support as many people as possible to work towards and achieve the recommended physical activity levels – and encourage everyone to move more and sit less. With Spring on its way, we will all be out at the park more often. Whether that is for a walk or with the kids, Park Power is such an easy way to incorporate strength and balance exercises while enjoying family time and all the benefits of being outdoors. Look out for those signs and have fun while improving your health and wellbeing at the same time!”
Park Power is part of the Get Moving ABC initiative and is a collaborative effort from a range of Community Planning Partners, including Southern Health and Social Services Trust and the Public Health Authority.
For more information, please visit: https://getactiveabc.com/hw_programs/park-power/
