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Coffee, community and cardio: Fitness that fits for over-60s

GENERATION ACTIVE... Group fitness offers a wealth of benefits—physical, social, and mental. Aquamoves instructor Lyn Davidson has been transforming lives for decades, with her classes making a real difference in the physical, mental, and social health of people 60+. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

Exercise transformed Lyn Davidson’s life after a car accident in her 30s. Introduced to aerobics as part of her recovery, she quickly discovered not just a path back to strength, but a lifelong passion for movement and wellbeing.

A former teacher, Lyn was encouraged to train as a group fitness instructor, and she hasn’t looked back. She’s been teaching at Shepparton’s Aquamoves since the gym opened, helping others discover the physical, mental, and social benefits of staying active.

Group fitness is about more than exercise. It’s about connection, confidence, and staying well as we age. Lyn remembers when her classes only had four participants; now they attract 20 to 40 people, many over 70, and they are as social as they are active.

“It’s 80 per cent social and 20 per cent exercise,” Lyn said. “They always finish with a coffee and a chat. It’s such a friendly group, everyone is welcoming, and new faces are never left sitting on their own. The friendships that form are just as important as the exercise.”

GENERATION ACTIVE… Group fitness offers a wealth of benefits—physical, social, and mental. Aquamoves instructor Lyn Davidson has been transforming lives for decades, with her classes making a real difference in the physical, mental, and social health of people 60+. Photo: Deanne Jeffers

Classes are adaptable for all abilities. With regular attendance, participants improve mobility, flexibility, balance, and aerobic fitness—key to preventing falls, maintaining independence, and supporting mental wellbeing.

“We’re all getting older, and we want to live well,” said Lyn. “I’m 77 this year, so I get it—we’ve got sore backs, aching joints, arthritis, and many of us have been through surgery. But I’m amazed every week to see the strength, determination, and spirit people bring to class.”

Lyn also teaches water aerobics in Aquamoves’ hydrotherapy pool, offering a gentle alternative for those with joint pain or injuries.

Lyn’s advice? “Get out there do and do it!” With affordable memberships and a vibrant, inclusive community, Aquamoves is helping older adults stay active, social and strong.

To find out more about memberships and group fitness, call 5832 9400 or visit the Aquamoves website at

www.aquamoves.com.au