“Sarcopenia is a loss of muscle size, strength, and function as we age”
As we get older we often see people doing less activity and not managing as well as they used to in everyday activity. What if i told you, there is a way to stay active and keep doing the things you love. What if i told you, there is a way to keep yourself healthier and less at risk of chronic illness? What if I told you there is a way of keeping your independence and have a lower risk of falls and the broken bones that can be associated with them? What if itold you there is a way to reduce muscle pain from every day activity??
Most people would jump at this and we have an evidence based answer at SPARC Greystones!
Introducing ‘SPARC: Muscle Matters’
SPARC:Muscle Matters is a 12 week strength and balance programme to improve the muscle and bone health of the community in Greystones and surrounding area. We are really excited to be bringing this programme to the area and more importantly to the older adults in our local community. We are delighted to work with the HSE, Eire Og Gaa Club and some of our local GP's to deliver this programme for older adults in Greystones and the surrounding area
The programme is fully led by our chartered physiotherapist Alex Hassett who has a huge interest in this area. We are using evidence based research to deliver an effective programme for participants. We will also be tracking your individual progress throughout the programme to show you how you are improving and to ensure we are continually addressing individual issues you may have.
The programme will be tailored to individuals with various levels within each exercise group to ensure everyone is catered for.
The programme is open to everyone over 65. All classes will run on Monday, and following a short initial screen the groupings for the class will be decided. Currently we are possibly looking at both male & female programmes .
Sarcopenia: What adds to the risk?
Increasing age
“Over the age of 50 we can lose 1- 2 % of muscle size each year!”
Prolonged bed rest
Not exercising or moving enough
Not eating correctly
What are the benefits of strength training?
• Improved muscle strength
• Reduced risk of chronic illnesses
• Improved mobility and ease of movement
• Reduced risk of musculoskeletal pain
• Improved mood
Problems associated with Sarcopenia
Decreased strength resulting in
• Loss of independence
• Difficulty in doing your daily activities
• Increased risk of falls
12 Week Strengthening Exercise Class
● Chartered physiotherapist led group exercise class to focus on strengthening all major muscle groups
● Exercises will help to improve ease with everyday movements such as using stairs, rising from a chair and getting up from the floor.
● A home exercise programme will also be devised for all participants
● Strength improvement will be measured before and after the 12 week programme
● A second “Live Online” class delivered via Zoom
We are really looking forward to getting Greystones moving!
You can sign up by filling in this form below. Please note if this is your first time to SPARC, we will ask you to come for a pre-assessment with one of our physio team to assess your suitability for the class.