Residents of Orange who are aged 50 years and more, can now benefit from the Charles Sturt University (CSU) Active Living Longer (ALLong) program which has extended to CSU in Orange, thanks to a grant from Staying Active.

The ALLong program aims to help our aged enjoy a long-term active lifestyle and extended years of independence, it has been running successfully for a year at Bathurst CSU.

The program is run in conjunction with CSU, which provides research support and the use of their well-equipped gyms. Dr Eevon Stott, adjunct research fellow in the CSU School of Exercise Science, Sport and Health in Bathurst explained, “The gym is a safe and supportive environment, and through listening to our participants, we have established a routine that suits the needs of over-50s. Participants in the group gym program can also opt to participate in research comprising physical, physiological, balance, and wellbeing measures. The research then acts as a checkpoint for the participants to track their progress over time.”

Dr Scott continued, “As part of the research, we ask them, what can we do to get you out of the program? We actually want to graduate them, so we work through a progression chart (12-25 sessions), once they have finished their progression pack, we ask them, ‘do you feel confident enough to leave and continue this on your own? And if you do, what can we do to help you?”

The program also functions as a placement opportunity for students from the School of Exercise Science, Sports and Health. Dr Stott credits the success of the program, to the professionalism of the staff and students of the School.

“We have put eight students through their placement so far, the student model allows for intergenerational interaction with the participants. Toby Parry completed his placement two months ago, he is outstanding and is now a casual staff member whilst he finishes his last semester. When he graduates, he will be an Accredited Exercise Scientist.”

Judy James has been involved with the program for three weeks now and couldn’t speak any higher of it. “I am involved in tenpin bowling competition each week and play some golf. This is what I need because my balance isn’t the best and I needed to work on getting some strength in my arms, legs and core, this program really just suited my needs,” said Judy.

Due to the size of the gym at CSU in Orange, participant places in the ALLong program are limited. Participants pay a small fee to attend. For more information or to enrol in the ALLong program contact Dr Eevon Stott on 0408 721 752 or email estott@csu.edu.au