Program details

Build You Stronger is a supervised resistance-based exercise program designed for adults aged 50+ who are living with or at risk of musculoskeletal conditions such as osteoporosis/osteopenia, osteoarthritis, and chronic low back pain.

The program focuses on improving strength, functional capacity, balance, and overall musculoskeletal health to support safe independent living and improve overall quality of life.

Each session is 45-60 minutes in duration and is delivered 2 times per week in a small group setting (3-6). Sessions include warmup, cool down, progressive resistance training using dumbbells, kettlebells, cable machines and functional movement patterns tailored to individual capacity and clinical presentation.

The program also incorporates monthly education sessions to support participants in managing their MSK health.

Topics include nutrition for bone and muscle health, healthy eating, weight management, osteoporosis and osteoarthritis self-management, chronic pain management, physical activity guidelines, and strategies to maintain long-term exercise participation and functional.

Opening hours:

• Exercise Classes are conducted on every Wedensday and Friday 4:00-5:00pm.
• Programs operate throughout the year, excluding NSW Public Holidays and planned service closures. Participants are advised of any changes to class schedules in advance.
• Additional classes may be offered subject to participant numbers and availability.

Cost:

Standard fee: $30 per session.
Concession fee: $20 per session for eligible concession card holders (e.g. Pensioner Concession Card, Commonwealth Seniors Health Card).
Participants may be eligible for rebates through Medicare, private health insurance, DVA, NDIS, or other funding schemes where applicable. Eligibility and claiming requirements should be discussed with the provider prior to commencement.

Target age:

50 Plus

Languages spoken other than English:

Mandarin

Participants who would not be suitable for the program:

This program is designed for independently mobile adults aged 50+ with stable musculoskeletal conditions.
Participants will undergo pre-exercise screening to determine suitability and identify any required modifications.

The program may not be suitable for individuals with:
* Unstable or uncontrolled cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, or metabolic conditions that have not been medically cleared for exercise.
* Recent surgery, fracture, or acute injury where exercise restrictions remain in place.
* Significant cognitive impairment that would limit the ability to understand and follow exercise instructions safely in a group environment.
* Acute pain, inflammation, or medical conditions requiring individual assessment and management prior to commencing a group program.
* Individuals requiring a high level of physical assistance or supervision to participate safely in exercise.

Participants who use mobility aids, have balance impairments, or have complex health conditions may still be eligible to participate following assessment by the Exercise Physiologist/Physiotherapist to determine whether appropriate modifications can be provided.

Special requirements or conditions:

Participants are required to wear comfortable clothing suitable for exercise and enclosed, supportive footwear. Participants are encouraged to bring a water bottle and a small towel for personal use.

Prior to commencing the program, all participants will complete a pre-exercise screening and health assessment to determine suitability and identify any required exercise modifications.

Participants should advise the Exercise Physiologist/Physiotherapist of any changes to their health status, medications, injuries, or medical conditions that may affect their ability to exercise safely. Attendance at sessions should only occur when participants are medically fit to participate in exercise.

Minimum experience:

Beginner

Leader qualifications:

Exercise Physiologist

Exercise Scientist

Physiotherapist

Healthcare clearance requirement:

Yes

Private health insurance rebates:

Yes