Strength for Life

Stay Strong, Active and Independent!

Staying active as we get older is one of the best things we can do to maintain our overall health, independence, and quality of life. However, knowing where to start or feeling confident walking into a gym setting isn’t always easy.

That’s where Strength for Life (SFL) comes in.

What is Strength for Life?

SFL is an evidence-based exercise program designed to help older adults improve their strength, balance, fitness and overall wellbeing in a safe, supportive, and social environment.

The program is coordinated by COTA SA and gives older South Australians the opportunity to participate in supervised exercise that is tailored to their individual abilities and goals.

You don’t need to be fit, strong, or experienced in the gym before you start. Whether you are already active or haven’t exercised for some time, your program can be adjusted to meet you where you are at.

Why is strength training so important as we age?

As we get older, we naturally begin to lose muscle mass and strength. If we don’t actively work to maintain it, this can gradually make everyday activities such as; getting out of a chair, climbing stairs, carrying groceries, gardening, or even getting up from the floor more difficult.

The good news is that we can continue to build strength at any age.

Regular strength, balance and aerobic exercise can help to:

  • Maintain and improve muscle strength

  • Improve balance and reduce falls risk

  • Support healthy bones

  • Maintain mobility and independence

  • Improve confidence with everyday activities

  • Support heart and cardiovascular health

  • Improve general fitness and energy levels

  • Make everyday tasks feel easier

  • Support overall physical and mental wellbeing

Exercise isn’t just about being fitter, it’s about continuing to do the things that are important to you.

“But I’ve never been to a gym before!”

That’s completely okay!

SFL isn’t about lifting the heaviest weights or keeping up with the person next to you. Everyone has different abilities, health conditions and goals.

Before getting started, you’ll complete an initial assessment with a qualified health professional. This allows us to learn more about your health, current abilities and what you would like to achieve. From there, you’ll receive an individualised exercise program appropriate for you. Exercises can be modified and progressed as your strength and confidence improves, so you can work at your own pace while having the support available when you need it.

Who can benefit from SFL?

SFL can be a great option if you want to:

  • Become stronger and more active

  • Improve your balance or confidence on your feet

  • Maintain your independence

  • Return to exercise after some time away

  • Feel more confident using gym equipment

  • Exercise around existing health conditions or physical limitations

  • Build a regular exercise routine

  • Meet new people while staying active

You don’t have to wait until you are struggling with your mobility or strength to start. SFL can also be a fantastic way to maintain the strength and independent you already have.

More than just exercise

There is also an important social side to SFL. Our group sessions provide a friendly and welcoming environment where you can exercise alongside others, have a chat and make regular physical activity part of your weekly routine. For many participants, coming to SFL isn’t just another exercise session, it becomes part of their routine and an opportunity to connect with others in their community.

Small improvement can make a big difference

Being able to stand from a chair more easily, feeling steadier when walking, carrying the shopping with more confidence, or having the strength to keep doing your favourite activities may seem like small things, but they can make a huge difference to everyday life.

The aim of SFL is to help you continue doing the things you enjoy and maintain your independence for as long as possible.

And remember - it’s never too late to start getting stronger.

Interested in SFL?

If you’d like to become stronger, improve your balance, increase your confidence with exercise or simply stay active in a supportive environment, SFL could be a great place to start.

Get in touch with our team to learn more about our Strength for Life session, eligibility and how to get started.

Note: Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise or treatment program, particularly if you have concerns related to bone health or other medical conditions.