Aqua Legends Programme

Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has launched an innovative swimming programme aimed at the “over 60s”. The ‘Aqua Legends’ programme will commence at Omagh Leisure Complex and Fermanagh Lakeland Forum, Enniskillen in September 2018.

The free 12-week programme consists of swim instruction and aqua based activities for those aged 60 years and over. The programme will be facilitated by suitably qualified instructors and is funded by the Public Health Agency (PHA) as part of its Healthy Towns West Programme.

The programme will commence on Monday 3 September 2018 at Omagh Leisure Complex at 11.30am and Thursday 6 September 2018 at the Fermanagh Lakeland Forum, Enniskillen at 12.30pm.

Speaking about the forthcoming programme, the Chairman of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Howard Thornton, said:

“Fermanagh and Omagh District Council is once again delighted to be working in partnership with the PHA to deliver this programme to encourage participation in water-based activity for those aged 60+.

Two key outcomes of the Fermanagh and Omagh 2030 Community Plan are to improve the wellbeing of all the people of the district and to help older people lead more independent and engaged lives. This programme certainly embraces both outcomes. Leading an active lifestyle is vital for physical and mental health and wellbeing and I encourage prospective participants to give a friend, neighbour or family member a call and encourage them to sign up to this unique programme.”

Colette Brolly, the PHA lead on physical activity, said:

“A great way to get active is to do something you like and that’s why this programme offers the opportunity to take part in an activity that you enjoy but might not have done in a number of years, or, if you’ve never given it a go, to try something new.

“It’s important to be physically active at each stage of our lives and, combined with eating healthily, this can help us age well, stay independent and feel good. Regular physical activity will help keep the heart and lungs working efficiently, maintain a healthy weight, keep muscles and bones strong, and help reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions including some cancers and Type 2 diabetes. Being more physically active can also help to reduce anxiety and stress.”

Availability on each programme is limited and places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. All participants will be required to complete a pre-exercise questionnaire. Participation on the programme is free of charge.

For further information and to register, participants should contact the relevant leisure centre.

For tips on getting active, making healthier food choices and advice on setting yourself targets, visit www.choosetolivebetter.com