Steady and Strong

These fun classes will support you to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. The exercises will help you achieve balance, strength and flexibility and improve your mobility giving you more independence. It makes me happy to see the positive effects that the exercises in this class bring, I have noticed a marked increase in people’s confidence and best of all, we have a really enjoyable time together.

I am a trained Otago Exercise Leader; a worldwide, evidenced-based falls prevention approach recommended by healthcare professionals. This class will help improve your strength and balance.

Falls are not an inevitable part of getting older and can be prevented. Did you know impaired strength and balance contribute to most falls? Improving stability requires a specific, evaluated and safe exercise programme. The Otago Exercise Programme was developed and tested by the New Zealand Falls Prevention Research Group to reduce falls in older adults and these specific exercises are incorporated into my classes.

What happens in a Steady and Strong class?
Classes focus on mobility, strength and balance with some stretches and dance movements to increase your heart rate, leaving you feeling refreshed and energised.

Is this class right for me?
Steady and Strong classes are aimed at older adults who are at low risk of falls, but who want to maintain or increase their strength and balance.

Have you had a fall recently?
If you are recovering from an illness or an operation or have had a recent fall, please speak to your GP. It may be appropriate for you to attend NHS falls services to support your recovery before coming to a Steady and Strong class.

Classes are on:
Mondays 10.30 am - 11.30 pm
Steady & Strong Dance, North Baddesley Village Hall, Botley Road, North Baddesley, SO52 9DT
Thursdays 9.30 am - 10.30 am
Steady & Strong Dance, St Boniface Church, Hursley Road, Chandlers Ford, SO53 2FT
Thursdays 10.40 am - 11.40 am
Steady & Strong, St Boniface Church, Hursley Road, Chandlers Ford, SO53 2FT

To book please contact me at:
Email: gabriel.galvez.prado@gmail.com
Call: 07440 419575

Cost: £9 (pay as you go), £7.50 if you pay monthly in advance

I trained in Otago Exercise Programme Leader with Later Life Training through Hampshire County Council’s Steady and Strong programme.

BACK TO CLASSES

If you’re enjoying the weekly Steady and Strong classes and would like to build on what you’ve already achieved, my 12-week Steady and Strong programme offers a little more time and structure to develop your strength, balance and mobility. It’s a supportive and progressive programme, with exercises adapted to suit you and your abilities. Find out more about the Steady and Strong programme.

  • "I joined Gabriel’s class several months before my knee replacement surgery, hoping to strengthen my knee and improve my stamina. Gabriel was incredibly understanding and mindful of my limitations. He even sent exercises and really useful information about my surgery to me at home, which was so thoughtful. Once I’d had my surgery and was given the all-clear by my surgeon, I was thrilled to return to class and build on the progress I’d already made. With Gabriel’s care and encouragement, it wasn’t long before I was back to doing everything at 100%. Gabriel’s unique manner and wonderful sense of fun make the classes both beneficial and special. I also have to mention the lovely, like-minded people in the Monday class. I was welcomed from the start and quickly felt part of the group. When I first joined, there were only about six of us. I found the class exactly what I needed: targeted, fun, joyful, with great music, gentle, useful and constructive, but never judgemental. Word soon spread and there are now often 15 or more people, all incredibly supportive of one another. Gabriel gives everyone individual attention, which has allowed me to work on my coordination difficulties without ever feeling self-conscious. He always has a kind and encouraging word, and my balance has definitely improved. Thank you so much, Gabriel!"

    Lizanne

  • "Just knowing that I’m doing these classes has given me the confidence to keep going with walks and everyday tasks, which certainly helps as we get older. Getting old can be frustrating at times! I really enjoy the classes and love the way Gabriel makes you feel that whatever your individual abilities, you’re doing just fine, while gently encouraging you to push yourself a little further if you want to. Thank you, Gabriel!"

    Patricia

  • "Gabriel is a great teacher. He always makes sure we only do what we’re capable of. The exercises are geared towards us and the dancing at the end is really good fun! I always feel better after one of his classes, many thanks Gabriel."

    Sue

  • "I am one of the founder members of the class. I have enjoyed every single week and have never wanted to miss a class if I can help it. Because we all enjoy how Gabriel teaches and the way he makes us feel so welcome, it means we all benefit from this weekly form of exercise. I know that I am now much better at stairs and getting in and out of low chairs. I have definitely noticed an improvement over time. Thank you Gabriel!"

    Janet

  • "Gabriel has cracked the challenge of setting exercises to our music. Lovely welcoming group."

    Tony

  • "I had just moved to North Baddesley when I joined the class - not knowing a soul. All I can say is that I am so glad I did! I've been able to get to know you lovely, friendly people, truly enjoy every minute and get a lot fitter into the bargain. Gabriel is a kind, compassionate teacher and deserves to do well!! Thanks to all."

    Maureen

  • "A highly competent class leader in terms of technical, aesthetic and social skills. He takes a personal interest in individuals, while encouraging mutual support."

    Peter