Harbour Sport has developed a scaling guide for classes from Level 1 to 3 which reflects the different abilities of older adults to ensure they attend appropriate classes.
Level 1 description
Low intensity/entry level, beginner class/seated options available
Participants may require the use of a walking aid, have limited mobility, poor balance and lower-limb weakness and may lack confidence.
Current participant activity level: Does not engage in regular physical activity and leads a sedentary lifestyle.
Suitability: Ideal for older adults who may have slipped/tripped or fallen in the last year, cannot get out of a chair without using their hands, has restricted activity because they are worried about falling and/or uses a walking aid.
Level 1 classes include:
- Seated options with progression to standing
- Aided standing balance exercises with progression
- Light resistance exercises using body weight or may include resistance bands/lights weights where appropriate
- Excludes any movement that requires getting up and down onto the floor
Level 2 description
Low to moderate intensity/entry level, beginner class for participants that currently engage in physical activity.
Participants do not require a walking aid, have reasonable mobility, may have some concerns with balance and leg strength however feels confident participating in physical activity.
Current participant activity level: Ideal for participants who are engaging in physical activity on a regular basis. This may include walking, gardening, activities around the home or within a community setting.
Suitability: Ideal for older adults who may have slipped/tripped or had a minor fall in the last year, may need to use their hands to get out of a chair but is participating in physical activity regularly.
Level 2 classes include:
- Standing exercises with chair options available when required
- Assisted standing balance exercise options available as required
- Light resistance exercises using body weight or may include resistance bands/lights weights
- Excludes any movement that requires getting up and down onto the floor
Level 3 description
Moderate intensity/intermediate level (more advanced) class
Participants have a good level of fitness, mobility, balance, and leg strength and want to maintain this. They feel confident when participating in physical activity and are open to trying different types of exercises and movements.
Current activity level: Ideal for participants that participate in ‘huff and puff’ type physical activity at least 3 times per week.
Suitability: Ideal for participants who exercise regularly and are confident to try different types of movement.
Level 3 classes include:
- Standing exercises that may challenge coordination as well as strength
- Balance exercises that may or not have assisted options available
- Light resistance exercises using body weight, resistance bands or lights weights
- May include movements that require getting up and down onto the floor
- Seats available if rest is required
All approved Community Group Strength and Balance classes and programmes will be categorised according to the above scaling guide and promoted as such.