State-of-the-art gym launched in Noble Park

2 November 2017

A new state-of-the-art gym being launched in Noble Park next week will remove barriers to physical activity among the growing older population.

The Helsinki University Research (HUR) Gym – launched on Wednesday, 8 November, at Uniting AgeWell’s Allied Health and Therapy Centre – will enable people to restore and maintain their health, independence and wellbeing. 

The HUR Gym is fitted with a Smart Card system that automatically sets the correct resistance and supports them through their workouts. 

On-site allied health professionals regularly adjust users’ workout programs at the fully-supervised and supported gym.

The air-resistant equipment, designed to accommodate varying degrees of ability and physical conditioning, reduces stress on joints and connective tissues, ensuring better outcomes and reduced risk of injury for seniors.  

Uniting AgeWell CEO Andrew Kinnersly said the new gym was being opened in response to a growing need for more specialised and tailored exercise programs for seniors.

“Remaining active as people age is an essential ingredient to maintaining physical health and mental wellbeing,” Mr Kinnersly said.

“Noble Park has a large ageing population and we believe seniors in the broader community will benefit from access to this innovative program.”

HUR Gym was first introduced at Uniting AgeWell’s Forest Hill Allied Health and Therapy Centre in 2015 and more than 350 people now use the gym each week.  The HUR Gyms at Noble Park and Oakleigh – being launched the same day – are expected to attract similar results. 

Mr Kinnersly said Uniting AgeWell aimed to take a different approach to ageing and break down the stereotypes often attached to older people. 

“We see ageing as a positive stage of life where people are connected and active, and lead meaningful lives,” he said. “It’s about ensuring everyone, no matter their age, can live and age well in the way that they want.”

Forest Hill HUR Gym user, Mima Mitchell, is reaping the benefits of the facility, which allows her to ‘go at her own pace’.

“It’s all geared to your body by the exercise physiologist, and it’s good to have other people around to support each other.”

Mr Kinnersly will officially open the gym at Uniting AgeWell Noble Park Community, 1312 Heatherton Road, at 2pm. Media are invited to attend the event.

For more information about the HUR Gym call Uniting AgeWell’s Noble Park Allied Health and Therapy Centre on T: 9554 0700.