How Be Active helped me stay active and connected

Jayne Kirkby, a resident at Candleford Gate, shares her experience of using Be Active, our programme that supports residents to take care of their physical health through a mixture of exercise videos and resources. 

Staying active has always been important to me, but like many people, I found it difficult to exercise regularly on my own. I wasn't motivated enough to keep it up by myself, and I couldn't afford to attend more in-person exercise classes. That's why Be Active has made such a difference to my life.

Building exercise into my routine

These days, I try to attend all five Be Active classes each week if I possibly can. Having regular sessions in my diary has helped me build exercise into my routine, rather than putting it off or only managing it once or twice a week.

If I didn't do these classes, I'd probably just sit and read or watch TV. Instead, I'm exercising most days, which has become a really positive part of my week.

One of the things I enjoy most is that every class is designed to suit different abilities. Carl and Eni's exercise classes are excellent. They always offer different options so you can work at a level that's right for you, and they're fun, friendly and encouraging throughout. Alan's Tai Chi classes are just as enjoyable, with options to suit everyone, whatever their ability. They're a wonderful way to improve and maintain fitness while also helping me relax.

I first experienced Tai Chi during a taster session on another course and really wanted to continue, but when I looked into classes locally, they were simply too expensive. Being able to take part through Be Active has been a real bonus.

Living on a tight budget, there's no way I could afford to take part in this many classes every week if it wasn't for Be Active. Having them available free of charge has made something possible that otherwise just wouldn't have been.

The difference it's made

Doing the classes from home has also made a huge difference. I don't have to worry about travelling or whether the weather is good enough to go out. Even on very hot days, I can exercise comfortably at home, whereas travelling to and taking part in a class somewhere else could be much more difficult.

The classes have helped me recover some of my fitness after an illness and, just as importantly, maintain it. I don't feel as stiff because I'm exercising most days, and I have much more energy when I'm not sedentary.

They've helped my mental wellbeing too. Taking part lifts my mood, gets me moving and gives me company, even if it's virtual. Over time, I've started to get to know some of the other participants as well, which makes each session feel even more welcoming.

The instructors create such a friendly atmosphere that it feels more like an in-person class. The routines are varied, so they're never monotonous, and they're challenging enough to keep you motivated without ever feeling overwhelming.

Why I'd recommend Be Active

One thing I'd say to anyone who's is thinking about giving Be Active a try is just to go for it. It's completely non-judgemental, it's free, and there's no long-term commitment. If you enjoy it, that's wonderful. If you don't, you've lost nothing.

For me, wellbeing means keeping as healthy as possible, both physically and mentally, so you can enjoy your life to the maximum.

I would be lost without these classes. A huge thank you to everyone who makes them happen.

Find out more about our Be Active programme

Be Active is our wellness and movement programme that supports residents living with us to take care of their overall health and wellbeing. In addition to exercise videos and weekly live demonstrations, we also offer podcasts and booklets offering tips on how to stay active.
Be Active is open to all Anchor residents, to find out more please visit our Be Active page.