Community
27 March, 2025
New initiative set to heighten fitness
TERANG and Mortlake Health Service (TMHS) has put out a call for fitness enthusiasts to support the growth of a burgeoning program.
TMHS will host a session at Terang Fitness on Tuesday, April 1 from 1pm looking for anyone with a Certificate 3 or 4 in fitness who may be interested in helping to develop a directory of local instructors.
The session will look to unite those who could help to grow the region’s opportunities to promote fitness, such as through an expansion of the programs at Terang Fitness and the in-demand idea of Mortlake having a gym of its own.
Terang and Mortlake Health Service health promotion officer Michelle Dowden said only about half of adults meet the recommended physical activity guidelines, a figure she would like to see improved locally.
“Part of my role in health promotion at TMHS is to consult with the community, stakeholders and form partnerships with local services,” she said.
“TMHS has been running strength training programs for older people, and there has been increasing demand for these programs,” she said.
“Local community members in Mortlake are keen to have a local gym as well, and providing options with fitness instructors is one solution.
“So, the idea to see if there were people out in the district who have cert 3 or 4 certificates in fitness, who may not want to work full time, and are able and available to run fitness sessions at the gym or other suitable community spaces was hatched.”
Ms Dowden said the programs currently running in Terang have been growing from strength-to-strength, which has created increased demand.
Having more instructors available would provide a significant boost to the efforts to promote fitness, especially following the departure of long-time instructor Barry Wurlod from Terang Fitness.
Ms Dowden said physical activity was a vital step to ensuring the health and longevity of the region’s residents, and hoped increased interest could lead to better positive outcomes for south west Victorians.
“Adults need at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week, such as 30 minutes a day, five days a week,” she said.
“It’s recommended adults also need two days of muscle-strengthening activity each week.
“Older people especially are learning and adopting the practice of strength training to enjoy retirement activities more and in the future live well and live independently at home.
“The evidence shows strength training is vital for improved cardiovascular health, muscle building, prevention of falls and improved flexibility.”
Ms Dowden encouraged anyone interested to attend the session, which will also include Terang Fitness manager Kelly Mullen, to learn more and ask questions.
“Come along and see what might be possible for you and contribute to improving the health and fitness of your local community,” she said.
“We need you because you are the experts in fitness instruction, and no one wants to bumble through without the help of an expert.”