Suzanne Grundy

Suzanne first started getting active in her 20s, to combat issues with her weight and lack of fitness. This then led to her teaching classes across Camden for 30 years. Here she tells about the positive benefits of being active.

“In my early 20s I was overweight and very unfit, and so I decided to become more active. I joined a Yoga class, which I really enjoyed because I remember it being quite a long walk away and winter when I started. I never gave up and over time, not only did I lose weight and become healthier, I also gained confidence and was able to do things that I’d never done before.

“I have taught community classes in Camden for over 30 years now, working in community centres, residential homes, leisure centres, and gyms. I tend to stick with my favourite style of classes – aqua aerobics, circuit training, core stability and Nordic walking. Everyone’s needs can be catered for whether it’s to alleviate pain, discomfort, stress, or simply just to improve your fitness.

“As an instructor, I like to emphasise the health benefits that being active can have on each individual’s personal issues. Some classes are more adapted to older adults with chairs available if needed, and adaptations for disabilities and wheelchair users. Overall, inclusivity is the most important thing to me, so I only work at places which have the same ethos.

“It is natural to feel apprehensive about becoming active, for my classes some people worry about what to wear and what equipment they might need, so I just reassure them that they just need to wear what’s comfortable to them and that equipment is generally available. It’s so rewarding to witness participants improving their fitness, or in some cases maintaining mobility and strength as they age.

“Being active has so many benefits, not only does it help to improve your fitness, you can also gain confidence and it is a great way to socialise and network. I think it is important that people do activities that suit them and their interests. So even if it’s not one of the classes that I teach, it’s most important to me that you’re being active and enjoying it. I would suggest trying different things to see what you’ll enjoy the most so that you feel happy whilst being active.”

If you’d like to take part in one of Suzanne’s classes you can contact her at suzanne.grundy@ymca.co.uk.

For information on other activities for older adults visit camden.gov.uk/activities-older-people