GETTING fit when you're over 50 might seem the obvious way to spend your afternoons, but it is just what a group of Tycroes pensioners has decided to do.

The members gather together at the Church Hall every Wednesday, from 1.15pm, and enjoy an hour on Low Impact Functional Training (LIFT).

During the hourly session, exercise teacher Lynwen Evans goes through a string of different moves which helps muscles strengthen and relax.

“The aim of the class is to promote physical activity for older adults,” said, Lynwen.

“All the exercises we do are very low impact and great fun – I would encourage anyone 50 and over to come along and join in.”

At the moment the class size can be more than 20 people, 99 per cent of which are female, however there is one brave gentleman who really enjoys the sessions.

“I come to the LIFT every Wednesday because I feel I need to keep myself fit,” said 69-year-old Omer Bone.

“It is really important to do some sort of physical exercise – and plus I really enjoy the social side and meeting people.”

The sentiment was echoed by Irene Williams, who has osteoporosis.

Irene said she too also enjoys attending the class and socialising with other group members.

“I do similar exercises at home but I really look forward to my exercise class every week,” said the 84-year-old.

“We have a fantastic group and I would urge anyone who is thinking of taking up some light exercise to come along.”

Founder of the class Lynwen also organises a friendship group straight after the exercise session at 2.15pm every Wednesday, and is extremely keen for new people to join.

“If people prefer not to come to the exercise class they can always come to a friendship group that I have organised,” said Lynwen.

“We play card games, have a cuppa and a natter – it really is a great way of getting out of the house and making new friends.

“I have recently organised an afternoon strawberry tea, so if anyone would like to join us they are more that welcome.

Lynwen is a volunteer for Age Concern who have help her organise all the event in the Tycroes Church Hall, so for further information please call Age Concern on: 01554784080