87 Years young and still going strong!
‘I’m too old for exercise’ is a common phrase the physical activity team often hear
when asking people about their physical activity levels. But not 87 year old Joan
Pratt.
Joan, from Wigston, contacted us when she saw 80 year old Betty Woodward
appeared in our “What’s On” Guide. She attends Active Tog ether’s Lifestyle,
Eating and Exercise Programme (LEAP) which is delivered by the NHS at the
United Reformed Church in Oadby. The sessions include a one and a half hour
nutrition session followed by an hour of physical activity, all free of charge. ‘I
really enjoy the sessions, they get me out of the house and it keeps me busy’
said Joan. ‘I found out about it through the Carer’s Project after being a carer for
my husband. I also sing in 2 choirs and really enjoy that. I enjoy keeping busy
and find it hard to say no sometimes!’
Joan also practices yoga every day for up to half an hour and walks 3 times a
week. She took up yoga 40 years ago, and in her 40’s, was told she may never
walk again due to arthritis. ‘It’s really helped me along the years and helped me
to get this far in life’.
Joan’s advice to everyone out there is ‘You’ve got to make an effort. There is a
lot to do locally and it’s good to get out and meet people whilst staying healthy’.
Joan is another fine example of residents in the borough being active. If you have
a story which involves you becoming more active, please contact the physical
activity team at Oadby and Wigston Borough Council on Leicester (0116) 257
2686 or email active.together@oadby-wigston.gov.uk
For more information about LEAP please contact the NHS Dietetics service on
Leicester (0116) 272 7223