Benefits of exercising for ageing are huge

Physiotherapist Dorothy Gliksman has championed the benefits of exercising for decades and it’s a message she was keen to spread when she moved from Sydney to Yarramalong valley 24 years ago.

Specialising in women’s health, Gliksman has devoted most of her working life to encouraging and educating women in health and fitness.

That message has evolved to also including and encouraging the elderly, both men and women, to exercise regularly to help the ageing process.

“After leaving Sydney over 20 years ago and coming to live in the beautiful Yarramalong Valley, I saw the need for a “hub” where the women of the valley could meet one another and participate in fitness classes,” Gliksman said.

“This proved to be so popular, that now 24 years later, there are still some of the original participates enjoying the classes.

“I am a physio so they know nothing we do will harm them.

“It’s about increasing strength and balance which is so important as one gets older.

“Ages vary from women in their 30s to our wonderful and very fit 92-year-old who shocks younger people with her planking and push-ups.

Marion Farley, also a well-known artist, has been a regular attendee since classes began and not even doctors can believe she is 92.

Gliksman’s regular weekly classes at the Yarramalong Hall also turn into the social highlight of the week for many who attend.

“After our physical workout, we go to our only local cafe and partake in a coffee and mental exercise, chatting about world events or personal issues,” Gliksman said.

“This is very important to everyone, it’s a time when we can voice or discuss our concerns.

“Fitness and health have been my passion for most of my life and I know how important it is.”

While her classes are full, Gliksman would like to see other Central Coast areas offering something similar.

“The benefits are huge,” she said.

“I just want people to realise that once you reach a certain age, it doesn’t mean you stop exercising or moving.”