Leisurelys programme wins Exercise NZ Community Award
Alpine Health and Fitness has received Exercise NZ’s 2023 Community Award for its Leisurelys programme aimed at those aged 65 and over.
The exercise industry acknowledged the incredible effort from Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) Sport and Recreation staff in designing and delivering an outstanding programme in the community space.
The Community Award is granted to a programme that emphasises participation in a population that would normally find access to exercise programmes difficult.
"Leisurelys is a well-rounded fitness and health offering that brilliantly serves its local ageing community," the judges said.
"There is a wide variety of opportunities to engage a range of abilities and preferences, serviced and led by well-qualified staff. They’ve taken time and care to develop a highly attended programme and social and recreational activities outside of the gym."
The over-65s group may find the gym or exercise programmes intimidating, but the qualified staff at Alpine Health and Fitness – based at Queenstown Events Centre – have designed an accessible programme that benefits the lives of members.
Leisurelys Programme coordinator Deni Zawalski says it is an honour to receive the award as a testament to the hard work put in by staff and participants that’s developed into something truly valued by the community.
“It’s wonderful to be recognized by Exercise NZ for running the Leisurelys programme. It really is a fantastic group of people and so many work hard to make it what it is. Our amazing members also make the programme truly special, especially in the way they support each other,” she said.
“Opening access to exercise to those that may find it difficult is incredibly important to us and something that we’ll continue to work on as we improve the Leisurelys over time.”
Zawalski says they’re always keen to welcome new members. Anyone interested in the award-winning programme should visit www.qldc.govt.nz/leisurelys or call 03 450 9005.
The Leisurelys programme was introduced in 2009. It offers the over-65s an extensive timetable of specific exercise classes aimed at supporting members mentally, socially and physically. The classes include gym, RPM (bikes), balance, dance, walking, strength, stretch, Pilates and aquafit.
