Strength for Life

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Exercise for older adults

“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”

C. S. Lewis

Welcome to Strength for Life in Lyneham – a safe, supportive and social exercise program designed especially for older adults.

Strength for Life is all about helping you stay strong, mobile and confident so you can keep doing the things you enjoy in everyday life. Whether you’re new to exercise or have been active for years, our classes are tailored to your individual needs and fitness level.

Strength for Life is an evidence-based strength and fitness program overseen by COTA ACT (Council on the Ageing ACT). It has been running successfully across Canberra, helping hundreds of older adults improve their health and wellbeing. Although created for people over the age of 50 (or 40 for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people), many of our clients are in their 70s, 80s and 90s!

At Lyneham we deliver Strength for Life as a Tier 2 program. This means:

  • Classes are run by qualified and experienced fitness professionals with specialist training in Strength for Life.

  • Each participant receives a program tailored to their goals, abilities and health needs.

  • Sessions are run in a small-group setting (maximum 15 people), making it both supportive and social.

  • Programs are progressive – as you get stronger and more confident, your program develops with you.

Strength for Life is designed to improve your strength, balance, coordination, endurance and mobility. Just as importantly, it’s a fun way to connect with others and stay motivated.

Class Details

Location

Classes are held at Powerhouse Canberra, within the National Hockey Centre,196 Mouat Street, Lyneham. (Click here for map)

There is ample free parking available.

Schedule

Classes are run on Mondays and Thursdays from 11am to 12pm.

Cost

The ongoing fee is $15/class which is paid when you book. You can also pre-purchase a 10 session pack for $150.

Depending on your circumstances and provider, you may be able to claim a rebate through your private health insurance.

Getting Started

Joining Strength for Life in Lyneham is easy, and we’ll support you every step of the way. Here’s how it works:

Step 1. Complete your forms
Before your first session, you’ll need to fill out:

These forms give us important background on your health and goals so we can design the safest and most effective program for you.

Depending on your responses to the Pre-Exercise Screening Form, you may also need:

Email your completed forms to danielle@daniellechesher.com.au or contact us if you are unsure whether you need a Referral.

Step 2. Book your initial assessment
Once you have submitted your forms, we will be in contact to book your initial assessment.

During this 45 minute session you will meet with Danielle to:

  • Talk through your health history and goals

  • Do some simple baseline fitness tests (don’t worry — it’s not a “test you can fail”!)

If your GP has referred you for a Tier 1 Assessment, your assessment and program will be completed by our Exercise Physiologist.

There is a cost for your initial assessment which covers the 45 minute session, and development of your personalised exercise program.

  • Initial Assessment (Tier 1) - $130

  • Initial Assessment (Tier 2) - $80

3. Start your classes
You’ll then be able to book in for one of our small group classes. Even though you’re in a group, you’ll be working through your own program, with your instructor there to guide, support and progress you as you improve.

4. Ongoing support
Your program is reviewed regularly so it can grow with you as you get stronger and more confident. We encourage you to have a re-assessment at least once a year, but you are able to book in whenever you choose.

  • I came to the Strength For Life program having never been inside a gym in my life. I had no idea what to expect and was a little apprehensive. I am pleased to report that it has been a positive experience health-wise and as a bonus, has provided an opportunity to meet a lovely group of people. Danielle's classes are welcoming and cater to all levels of ability. As each participant has their own exercise program, there is no element of competition - we are all there for the same reason. Highly recommended!

    Toni - 74

  • I’ve been going to SFL classes for 3 months now and I can see a big improvement in my strength and balance already. I am impressed with the calm and supportive atmosphere that Danielle provides in the classes, and the tailoring of activities for each individuals needs.

    Cheryl - 78

  • I have attended S. for L. classes twice a week for almost five years. The beginning was not easy but, after a while, I started enjoying them very much. Over time, Danielle has tuned my program to include harder and more complex exercises, including some on mind and body coordination. The result has been a definite improvement in strength, suppleness and, most importantly, memory. I have even improved my snooker game.

    Carlo - 93

  • We have been participating in Strength for Life twice weekly for the past four years. The health and fitness benefits for both of us have been substantial. Our programs at SFL were tailored for our requirements at the beginning: Barry’s for upper body ( to complement his bike riding) and Margaret’s for general fitness and balance. Regular testing each year has shown improvements in most aspects of our health, strength and balance - as we age. The warmups and overall enjoyment of the groups led by Danielle have been highlights. We thoroughly recommend Strength for Life to all.

    Margaret - 82 and Barry - 84

  • I’ve attended Strength for Life classes with Danielle as the instructor for over 2 years. Danielle always takes the time to talk to you individually and expertly guides you through your program. She’s always willing to answer your questions and change your program if needed. She varies the warm up which keeps you interested and willing to continue with your program. I would highly recommend Strength for Life class instructed by Danielle.

    Beth

FAQs

  • Not at all. Strength for Life is designed for people of all fitness levels. Your program is personalised to suit your current ability and goals, and you’ll progress at your own pace.

  • Most people do not need a referral. However, if you have a chronic health condition or complex medical needs, we may require clearance from your GP or allied health professional before you begin.

  • Your personalised Strength for Life program will usually be developed by Danielle, a tertiary-qualified fitness professional who delivers the Lyneham Tier 2 program. She will design your program based on your goals, current fitness, and health needs, and update it as you progress.

    If your GP or health professional recommends a Tier 1 assessment (for more complex medical needs), your program will instead be developed by an accredited exercise physiologist. This ensures you receive the right level of support for your individual circumstances.

  • Our Lyneham program is a Tier 2 Strength for Life program, which means sessions are delivered by qualified fitness professionals (not exercise physiologists or physiotherapists). If you require more specialised clinical support, a Tier 1 program (with exercise physiologist/physio supervision) may be more suitable.

  • The exercises in your program will be progressed regularly by your instructor. How frequently varies for each individual.

    A formal reassessment is recommended at least every 12 months, or whenever you request on.

  • Yes. Many participants start with one class per week. For the best results, we encourage attending two sessions per week, but the choice is yours.

  • We don’t offer permanent bookings, but it’s easy to reserve your spot for each class through our online booking system. You can book and pay for sessions up to 2 months in advance, giving you flexibility while ensuring a place in your preferred class.

    • Comfortable clothing and supportive shoes

    • A water bottle

    • Any medications (such as asthma puffers) that your doctor recommends you have with you when exercising.

  • If you can’t make your class, you’re welcome to reschedule into another session provided you do so at least 24 hours in advance through our booking system.

    If you need to cancel with less than 24 hours’ notice, rescheduling is not normally available. However, please email us as soon as possible — while we can’t guarantee a replacement session, we’ll do our best to find a solution.

    If you do not attend a booked class without prior notice, unfortunately rescheduling or credits are not available.

  • We generally prefer to reschedule your class to a future session if you are unable to attend.

    Refunds are only available in limited circumstances and will be processed minus any card processing fees. If you think you may be eligible for a refund, please contact us by email and we’ll discuss your options.

  • Strength for Life is offered at several locations across Canberra.

    For information on other providers, visit the COTA ACT website.

Get in touch

If you have any questions about Strength for Life or would like to book an initial assessment, you can contact us by phone, email or use the contact form to send us a message.

Danielle Chesher, Health and Wellness Coach | Personal Trainer
0438 091 109
danielle@daniellechesher.com.au

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