Inspiring healthy lifestyles

Inspiring healthy lifestyles/ Wigan/ Health & Wellbeing/ Fitness MOT

Free Health & Fitness Check-up and Activity Advice

Welcome and thank you for your interest in the Functional Fitness Event.
 The event is free of charge and will consist of information and advice about healthy ageing, and the opportunity to complete a Fitness Testing Workshop.

 

Why take part in the functional assessments?

A range of tests will be available that measure strength, balance flexibility and aerobic fitness. Your results can easily be compared to the population average, specific to your age. This means the tests are able to identify strength and weaknesses when it comes to walking/mobility and when performing every day activities such as getting up from a chair. The functional assessments complement the information provided throughout the day, for example by providing details about specific exercises that can increase leg strength. The functional assessments will help you evaluate your own fitness, and help you identify appropriate measures (e.g. exercises) to maintain or improve your quality of life.

Who is the event intended for?

Anybody over the age of 60 years. The functional assessments are aimed at ambulating (people who can walk from place to place), but various tests can also be performed by less mobile individuals, for example if you use a walking aid or crutches or wheelchair.

What do the functional assessments consist of?

The assessments are as follows:

  1. Distance walked during 6 minutes of walking (6 minute walk test)
  2. Ability to stand up from a chair, walk 3 metres, turn, walk back and sit down (Timed up and go test)
  3. Ability to stand up from a chair and sit down repeatedly within 30 seconds (Sit to stand test)
  4. Balance during standing on one leg
  5. Hand grip strength
  6. Flexibility of legs and arms
  7. Anthropometrics, such as body weight, height, and body mass index

Following the assessments, you will receive a debriefing on your overall assessment and provided with guidance on healthy living.

Important notice: It is recommended to wear your normal but comfortable clothing, and flat soled shoes during the assessments.

How long will the functional assessments take?

It is up to you how many (if any) assessments you take part in. Members of our team will be available to guide you to the assessments which can be completed at your own pace. The length of the tests will vary for each event.

Do you have to take part in the functional assessments?

No. You decide which tests you want to do. All tests are specifically tailored for older people, and safe to perform. Most tests are similar to everyday activities, and you decide how ‘well’ you do them. For example, during the minutes of walking, you are allowed to rest on a chair if required. If you have concerns about the tests, please contact your GP about your ability to take part in exercise.

Finally, it is important to point out that your participation is completely voluntary, and you can thus withdraw from any test at any time. Prior to performing the functional assessments, you will be required to complete a health questionnaire. It aims to determine the individual’s suitability to take part in the assessment and minimise the risk of any adverse events.

What will happen with my data that is collected?

The tests you perform can be indicators of health status. Data will be collected mainly to be able to provide you with your own results. Any data collected will be kept confidential and stored securely.

Upcoming Events

Book an event

If you are a local community group and would like us to come to provide an event for your members, please contact us and we can discuss the options.

Any questions?

Please contact us and we are happy to answer any questions you may have. You can also ask questions at any time during the event, where any member of staff of the event will be happy to answer them.

Get in Touch

Email:

Telephone: 01942 488481