New Wellbeing & Lifestyle Coach Gabrielle Butler is on a fitness mission that’s all about having fun.
She’s been working to start online fitness classes, outdoor walks, singing sessions and a new gardening club.
Each part of the Montague Mobility initiative is designed to help improve residents’ flexibility and blood flow and bring about a sense of wellbeing.
Gabrielle said: “It’s the perfect time to start our Montague Mobility drive now that summer is almost here.
“We’re fortunate to have an indoor activities portal called Oomph which we use for different exercise and wellbeing classes.
“It’s started doing garden walks with the residents as part of our coffee club. We go for a lovely stroll and then sit in the garden with a beverage.
“I’ve got some keen gardeners here too, so we’re launching the Montague Garden Club so that the green-fingered residents can get busy.”
Gabrielle is conscious that every resident has different needs and makes sure the movement sessions are inclusive.
There are chair-based exercises, Oomph activities for all and singing sessions that work well for all residents, including those living with dementia.
Gabrielle said: “Every week, we have singing sessions with the Forget-Me-Not Chorus.
“The residents get to sing and also move along to the music.
“It’s incredibly moving to see residents living with dementia singing along to every word of the songs.
“Dementia doesn’t impact the part of the brain that recalls music and lyrics, so it’s an excellent option for the residents.
“I hope all the Montague Mobility activities help residents to enjoy moving more and feeling good.”
