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Healthy Lifestyle

​​

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Office: (02) 9926 5555   Fax: (02) 9462 9078

Email: nslhd-healthylifestyle@health.nsw.gov.au

 

About Healthy Lifestyle

Get Fit. Feel Great. Have Fun​​

Healthy Lifestyle provides low cost and accessible physical activity classes for older adults across Northern Sydney. Courses run during school terms and are held in community venues in the Hornsby, Ku-ring-gai, Ryde, Northern Beaches and Lower North Shore areas.

Our exercise leaders are qualified fitness professionals with experience working with older adults.

  • A group of aged men & woman excercising iwth their hands stretched to the front
    Enrolment

    Enrolment for Healthy Lifestyle courses is on a term basis. A term fee is charged for all courses to cover costs. All classes now require completion of a Pre-exercise Questionnaire on an annual basis. Some participants will also be required to provide a Medical Clearance.

     

    Please refer to How to Enrol for further information and to review our Booking Conditions.

  • Four aged men and women in a pool excercising with their hands stretched above their heads
    Updates

    Term 2 2023: Classes are underway and enrolment has now closed.

     

    Term 3 2023: Classes commence from Monday 17 July 2023. Enrolments will open on Friday 16 June and continue until 4 August 2023.

     

    Tech Savvy Seniors Directory: Find a no/low cost computer training course for seniors. View it here.

 Program information

Read below for Healthy Lifestyle enrolment information, course details, rights & responsibilities and COVID-19 information.

 How to enrol

  • SELECT the course you would like to attend.      
  • Complete the PRE-EXERCISE QUESTIONNAIRE to determine if a Medical Clearance is required. If so, take the Healthy Lifestyle Medical Clearance Form to your Doctor to complete.
  • READ Healthy Lifestyle Booking Conditions including refunds and cancellations (listed below).
  • COMPLETE the Enrolment Form including emergency contact details.
  • COMPLETE and sign the credit card payment details on the Enrolment form or make cheques/money orders payable to: Northern Sydney Local Health District.
  • SUBMIT your completed Enrolment Form, together with the Pre-Exercise Questionnaire and Medical Clearance Form (if required) and the fee (cheque or credit card) by
    • EMAIL to: nslhd-healthylifestyle@health.nsw.gov.au
    • FAX to: (02) 9462 9078
    • POST to: Healthy Lifestyle, Level 5, RNS CHC, 2C Herbert Street, St. Leonards NSW 2065 (DO NOT SEND CASH THROUGH THE MAIL)

 

Healthy Lifestyle Terms and Conditions

Booking Conditions

  • Enrolments are processed on a first come first serve basis
  • No re-enrolments (rolling enrolments from term to term) will be offered.
  • You may enrol by email, mail or fax.
  • Receipts and any correspondence is emailed to you after your enrolment has been processed.
  • Completion of the Pre-Exercise Questionnaire is required annually to ensure your safety to participate in exercise and to determine if further advice from your doctor is required. If you answer “Yes” to any of the screening questions, then you are required to have your Doctor complete the Medical Clearance Form provided by Healthy Lifestyle. In this case, enrolment cannot be processed without a signed Medical Clearance.
  • Medical Clearance is only valid per calendar year. New Medical Clearance will be required and can be requested directly by our Exercise Leaders if your health status changes.
  • Classes are not held on public holidays.
  • Courses vary in duration between 9 and 10 weeks. Please refer to the Term brochure for specific information about course durations before enrolling.

 

Program Conditions

  • By enrolling in our physical activity program you agree to abide by our rules and conditions and to be courteous to other participants, Leaders, guests and venue staff. You are agreeing to be guided by our trained Leaders in participating in our physical activity program chosen by you. You will participate to the best of your ability and advise the Leader of any difficulties or concerns you may have in your participation in the various exercises.
  • By enrolling into a particular class/es within the Healthy Lifestyles physical activity program, you are agreeing:
    • That you are physically able to participate in that class/es.
    • That you know of no medical or other reason why you cannot or should not participate in that class/es.
    • To provide a signed Medical Clearance Form completed by your doctor, where required.
  • If you believe any of our physical activities performed during the class might risk your health, you must tell the Leader immediately.
  • You must also tell Healthy Lifestyle, immediately if your medical/health condition changes after you join our exercise program.
  • You are encouraged to consult with your doctor regarding your suitability and participation in Healthy Lifestyle's exercise program.
  • As a safeguard to yourself and other participants, you must not participate in the class if you have:
    • COVID-19
    • An infection, contagious illness or condition.
    • Physical ailment, such as tinea, an open cut, sore or wound.
    • Incontinence – for water based classes only.
    • Other risk, however small, to other participants, Leader/s and guests.

 

Refunds and cancellations

  • Healthy Lifestyle course/class cancellations
    • Healthy Lifestyle reserves the right to determine whether a participant is safe and suitable for the course in which he/she has enrolled.  Where possible, a more suitable course will be offered or a refund will be issued.
    • If Healthy Lifestyle cancels a course and a suitable alternative is not available, a full refund of your course fee will be issued.
    • If Healthy Lifestyle cancels an individual class/es due to leader illness or a venue issue, we will endeavour to find a replacement leader/venue.  If it is not possible to secure a replacement Leader/venue a class refund will be issued.
  • Participant refund requests
    • Healthy Lifestyle does not accept responsibility for participants' non-attendance of classes due to changes in personal or business circumstances/commitments during the term.
    • Healthy Lifestyle is unable to offer make-up classes or credits for non-attended classes.
    • An administration fee of $20 will be charged for all participant refund requests.
      • Participants who withdraw from a course with at least 5 working days' notice before the course begins may request a refund.
      • In the event that you are unwell and unable to attend your class/es a refund may be requested.  Refund requests will be processed for medical reasons only with an accompanying medical certificate.
  • Please allow 4 to 6 weeks processing for all refund types.

 Course descriptions

​Ai Chi

Ai Chi classes consist of Tai Chi style movements in warm water (See Warm Water Exercise and Tai Chi).

  • Exercise type: Balance/Mobility
  • Intensity: Low
  • Suitable for: Beginners and those not participating in regular exercise. Arthritis and joint mobility.
  • Not suitable for: In-continence (urinary and faecal), infections (urinary tract, vaginal, eye/ear), open wounds (skin tear, ulcer, sutures), skin conditions (tinea), an acute cardiac or respiratory condition or unstable blood pressure.

 

Active Exercise

This class suits active participants who are already engaged in regular physical activity or have completed at least two terms of the Gentle Exercise class. Exercises includes low impact standing and floor exercises, with minimal chair-based options. Strengthening, muscle toning, balance and coordination are all challenged in this class.  

  • Exercise type: Aerobic/Balance/Mobility
  • Intensity: Moderate
  • Suitable for: Those with moderate aerobic fitness and co-ordination with previous exercise class experience.
  • Not suitable for: Beginners or those not participating in regular aerobic-based exercise. Those with reduced balance/stability/mobility and recent falls or falls related injuries.

 

Aqua Exercise

Held in community pools and faster pace than warm water exercise. Gentle Pace is suitable for those with joint problems and for beginners. Medium Pace is a faster workout for fitter people in deeper water that aims to improve fitness.

  • Exercise type: Aerobic/Resistance-based/Balance/Mobility
  • Intensity: Low to moderate.
  • Suitable for: Beginners and those not participating in regular aerobic exercise (Gentle pace), those with moderate aerobic fitness and/or previous exercise class experience (Medium Pace).
  • Not suitable for: In-continence (urinary and faecal), infections (urinary tract, vaginal, eye/ear), open wounds (skin tear, ulcer, sutures), skin conditions (tinea), an acute cardiac or respiratory condition or unstable blood pressure.

 

Functional Strength & Balance

The aim of this class is to improve agility, muscle/ bone strength and balance. These exercises typically use the whole body ie: multiple muscles and your body’s weight to challenge resistance. Participants can choose to bring their own exercise bands and small hand/ankle weights.

  • Exercise type: Resistance-based/Balance
  • Intensity: Moderate
  • Suitable for: Those with moderate function and mobility who walk independently. Includes optional floor exercises for those able to get down and off the floor independently.
  • Not suitable for: Acute or unstable cardiac, respiratory or musculo-skeletal conditions, uncontrolled blood pressure, poorly controlled diabetes. Those with reduced balance/stability/mobility, recent falls or requiring a walking aid for mobility.

 

Gentle Exercise

This class is ideal if you are a beginner, or not so active, and want to focus on balance, mobility and strength. Includes chair-based and standing exercises to build strength and stability, in addition to easy moves to challenge co-ordination. 

  • Exercise type: Aerobic/Balance/Mobility
  • Intensity: Low, with minimal choreography.
  • Suitable for: Those wanting a lower impact chair-based and chair supported exercise class. Easy Pace classes offers a wider range of exercises.  Gentle Pace classes are lower pace and ideal for beginners or those who haven't exercised for some time. Gentle Pace would suit those who have recently completed our Stepping On Falls Prevention program.
  • Not suitable for: Acute or unstable cardiac or respiratory conditions, uncontrolled blood pressure, poorly controlled diabetes. Those requiring stand-by supervision to mobilise.

 

Men's MoveMENt Fitness Class

Taught by a male instructor these circuit style classes challenge your fitness, strength and balance. A great way to meet new mates. Participants can choose to bring their own exercise bands and small hand/ankle weights.

  • Exercise type: Resistance-based/Balance
  • Intensity: Moderate
  • Suitable for: Those with moderate function and mobility who walk independently. Includes optional floor exercises for those able to get down and off the floor independently.
  • Not suitable for: Acute or unstable cardiac, respiratory or musculo-skeletal conditions, uncontrolled blood pressure, poorly controlled diabetes. Those with reduced balance/stability/mobility, recent falls or requiring a walking aid for mobility.

 

Pilates

An exercise class using mat exercises to focus on improving core stability, postural strength and alignment. Participants must be able to get up and down from the floor.

  • Exercise type: Resistance-based (body weight)/Mobility
  • Intensity: Low to Moderate
  • Suitable for: Those with moderate function and mobility who walk independently. Must be able to get up/down from the floor independently.
  • Not suitable for: Acute or unstable cardiac, respiratory or musculo-skeletal conditions, uncontrolled blood pressure, poorly controlled diabetes. Those with reduced balance/stability/mobility, recent falls or requiring a walking aid for mobility.


Virtual Lungs in Action (Pulmonary and Cardiac Maintenance)

This classes is for people with stable chronic lung conditions who have completed a pulmonary rehabilitation program and also suitable for people with stable chronic heart conditions who have completed cardiac rehabilitation. All classes follow the guidelines set by the Lung Foundation Australia Lungs in Action program including use of specifically trained instructors. This class is running as a virtual class only. 

A Medical Clearance is required for this course. Participants will require access to a home computer or tablet with working camera, microphone and internet access and space to exercise safely at home. All participants will need to satisfactorily complete a “Tech and Safety” check prior to commencement to ensure the above requirements are met.

  • Exercise type: Aerobic/Resistance-based
  • Intensity: Low to moderate (individualised)
  • Suitable for: Those with stable chronic cardiac or pulmonary conditions who have completed Cardiac or Pulmonary Rehabilitation.  Chair-based and supported exercise are included. 
  • Not suitable for: Those with chronic cardiac or pulmonary conditions who have been hospitalised or experienced significant symptom exacerbation over the past 6 months. NB. Annual medical review and clearance required for this class.

 

Stretch & Tone

This class focuses on flexibility, mobility and improving postural alignment. This class involves both chair supported and standing exercise variations and is suited to a range of fitness levels.

  • Exercise type: Mobility/Resistance-based (body weight)
  • Intensity: Low.
  • Suitable for: Those wanting a lower impact chair supported exercise class with an emphasis on stretching/mobility. Those with moderate function who walk independently.
  • Not suitable for: Acute or unstable cardiac, respiratory or musculo-skeletal conditions, uncontrolled blood pressure, poorly controlled diabetes. Those with reduced balance/stability/mobility, recent falls or requiring a walking aid for mobility.

 

Tai Chi Moves

Tai Chi Moves involves a series of moving exercises connected with breathing to promote balance, good posture, joint mobility and relaxation.  Although there are many different styles of Tai Chi practice, this class focusses on standing and moving leg patterns which are beneficial for falls prevention and mobility in older people. 

  • Exercise type: Balance/Mobility
  • Intensity: Low
  • Suitable for: Those with moderate function and mobility who walk independently. All exercises are performed in standing. Suitable for a range of fitness levels.
  • Not suitable for: Acute or unstable cardiac, respiratory or musculo-skeletal conditions, uncontrolled blood pressure, poorly controlled diabetes. Those with reduced balance/stability/mobility, recent falls or requiring a walking aid for mobility.

 

Tone & Balance

This class focuses on balance and lower limb strength. Maintaining these fitness components are important to maintain function and prevent falls. This class involves both chair supported and standing exercise variations. This class will also suit those who have recently completed our Stepping On Falls Prevention program.

  • Exercise type: Balance/Resistance-based (body weight)
  • Intensity: Low.
  • Suitable for: Those wanting a lower impact chair supported exercise class with an emphasis on balance. Those with moderate function who mobilise independently.
  • Not suitable for: Acute or unstable cardiac, respiratory or musculo-skeletal conditions, uncontrolled blood pressure, poorly controlled diabetes. Those with reduced balance/stability/mobility, recent falls or requiring a walking aid for mobility.

 

Virtual Exercise

Group exercise class delivered by video conference. Seated and supported standing exercises focusing on core strength, stability, mobilising the joints and improving postural alignment. Participants can choose to bring their own exercise bands and small hand/ankle weights.

Participants will require access to a home computer or tablet with working camera, microphone and internet access and space to exercise safely at home. All participants will need to satisfactory complete of a “Tech and Safety" check prior to enrolment confirmation to ensure the above requirements are met.

  • Exercise type: Resistance-based/Balance/Mobility
  • Intensity: Low to moderate with gradual progression.
  • Suitable for: Those with moderate function and mobility who walk independently. No recent changes in medical/health status that may impact on exercise participation (eg. falls, hospitalisation, recent surgery). Some previous exercise experience.
  • Not suitable for: Acute or unstable cardiac, respiratory or musculo-skeletal conditions, uncontrolled blood pressure, poorly controlled diabetes. Those with reduced balance/stability/mobility, recent falls or requiring a walking aid for mobility.

 

Warm Water Exercise

​​Gentle exercise classes in a hydrotherapy pool which are helpful for arthritis and joint mobility. Gentle Pace is suitable for those with joint problems and for beginners. Medium pace is a faster, more dynamic workout. For mixed level classes, participants are encouraged to exercise in accordance with their fitness level.

  • Exercise type: Aerobic/Resistance-based/Balance/Mobility
  • Intensity: Low to moderate
  • Suitable for: Beginners and those not participating in regular aerobic exercise (Gentle pace), those with moderate aerobic fitness and/or previous exercise class experience (Medium Pace).
  • Not suitable for: In-continence (urinary and faecal), infections (urinary tract, vaginal, eye/ear), open wounds (skin tear, ulcer, sutures), skin conditions (tinea), an acute cardiac or respiratory condition or unstable blood pressure.

 

Yoga

Our yoga classes are centred around a range of standing poses, to enhance mobility, strength and balance for body and mind. This class incorporates some floor poses and relaxation.

  • Exercise type: Mobility/Balance
  • Intensity: Low
  • Suitable for: Those with moderate function and mobility who walk independently. Must be able to get up/down from the floor independently (Floor poses are incorporated).
  • Not suitable for: Acute or unstable cardiac, respiratory or musculo-skeletal conditions, uncontrolled blood pressure, poorly controlled diabetes. Those with reduced balance/stability/mobility, recent falls or requiring a walking aid for mobility.

 Medical and Health Professional information

​Participant suitability

Healthy Lifestyle classes are group- based exercise classes which are held in community venues. They are most suitable for older adults, aged 50 years and above, who live in the community who are aiming to maintain physical function, independence and prevent falls and falls related injuries.  Group-based exercise classes also provide an opportunity for socialisation and connection for older adults.

 

Healthy Lifestyle classes are most suitable for those:

  • Looking to prevent loss of muscle mass, mobility, balance and fitness associated with age.
  • Who can mobilise independently, or with minimal support (e.g. walking aid only). Need to be able to enter and exit the class and manage any transitions (e.g. pool entry, floor), independently.
  • Can participate in a group class without the assistance of a carer (i.e. Do not require physical or cognitive support)
  • Who have adequate vision and hearing function to safely manage in a group exercise setting.
  • Who have adequate cognitive function to follow instructions and participate, in a group exercise setting. (Classes are not suitable for those with cognitive impairment or dementia)
  • Managing stable chronic musculo-skeletal conditions including arthritis, osteoporosis and joint/muscular issues (including those who have undertaken joint related surgery following completion of post-surgical rehabilitation and allied health care).
  • Managing other stable medical conditions such as cardiac and pulmonary conditions, who have completed rehabilitation programs or who have been discharged/referred from allied health care.
  • ​Have recently completed the Stepping On or equivalent Falls Prevention program or are a Beginner to group-based exercise and meet the above suitability criteria. (Tone and Balance or Gentle Exercise – Gentle Pace is a suitable initial class).

Healthy Lifestyle Classes are not suitable for:

  • Those requiring individualised exercise prescription and supervision to accommodate for specific health care needs. (Our Exercise Leaders will provide variations for different levels of fitness/function only).
  • Those experiencing recent falls or falls related injuries or who are unable to safely mobilise without stand-by supervision (Referral to our local Stepping On Falls Prevention program is suggested prior to transitioning to Healthy Lifestyle classes).
  • Those with cognitive impairment or dementia (including early stage).
  • Acute or unstable cardiac or respiratory conditions including NYHA Class IV or III with poorly controlled symptoms. Anyone within 2-3 months of AMI, UAP, CABG or heart valve surgery. (Anyone with a chronic cardiac or pulmonary condition should complete an approved Cardiac or Pulmonary Rehabilitation program prior to commencing our Lungs in Action maintenance class)
  • Poorly controlled blood pressure.
  • Acute or unstable musculo-skeletal conditions such as recent fractures, neurological compromise, disc prolapse.
  • Other acute or unstable medical conditions which are poorly controlled or impact on safety such as poorly controlled diabetes, recent angina or unstable psychological conditions.

 

Pre-Exercise Screening requirements

Healthy Lifestyle considers the safety of participants to be of paramount importance and therefore requires all Healthy Lifestyle class participants undertake annual pre-exercise screening.  A copy of the Pre-Exercise Questionnaire can be found under the Enrolment tab on the Home page.

Pre-exercise screening is used to identify people who may have medical conditions which put them at a higher risk of an adverse event during physical activity/exercise. It is a filter or 'safety net' to help determine if the potential benefits of exercise outweigh the risks for an individual. 

Healthy Lifestyle has implemented the Adult Pre-Exercise Screening System (APSS) from Term 1 2022, which is the health and fitness industry standard screening tool (endorsed by Fitness Australia, Sports Medicine Australia and Exercise and Sports Science Australia).  More information on this tool can be found by clicking here External Link.

 

Stage 1 of the APSS tool (V2, 2019) is self-administered via questionnaire to potential class participants. A copy of this Questionnaire can be found under the Enrolment tab on the Home page. The following key questions are included:

  1. Has your doctor ever told you that you have a heart condition or have you ever suffered a stroke? (Heart conditions include, but are not limited to: post myocardial infarction (heart attack), angina, coronary artery bypass, coronary angioplasty, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, heart transplant, pacemaker insertion, congenital heart disease, heart valve disease and peripheral artery disease) 
  2. Do you ever experience unexplained pains in your chest at rest or during physical activity/exercise? (Any unexplained chest pain that feels like constriction, burning, knifelike pains and/or dull ache)
  3. Do you ever feel faint or have spells of dizziness during physical activity/exercise that causes you to lose balance? (Examples of dizziness may include, but are not limited to: light-headedness or the feeling of nearly fainting, loss of balance or other sensations such as floating or swimming)
  4. Have you had an asthma attack requiring immediate medical attention at any time over the last 12 months? (Medical attention refers to a medical practitioner or hospital visit following an asthma attack. It does not include the self administration of medications prescribed for asthma)
  5. If you have diabetes (type I or type II) have you had trouble controlling your blood glucose in the last 3 months? (Trouble controlling blood sugar refers to suffering from hyperglycaemia (high) or hypoglycaemia (low).)
  6. Do you have any muscle, bone or joint problem that could be made worse with physical activity/exercise? (Examples include, but not limited to: recent bone fracture/s, surgeries or injuries)
  7. Do you have any other medical condition(s) or recent changes in your health status that may require special consideration for you to exercise? (Examples include, but not limited to: acute injury, epilepsy, transplants, cancer)

 

If participants answer “Yes" to any of these questions, they are directed to seek the advice of a medical Doctor regarding their suitability to exercise and to complete the Healthy Lifestyle Medical Clearance Form.

If participants answer “No" to all questions, they may enrol in a Healthy Lifestyle exercise class without a Medical Clearance. If their medical/health status does change, they are advised to immediately inform their Exercise Leader and seek the advice of their medical Doctor regarding exercise participation.

 

Medical Clearance requirements

Virtual Lungs in Action (Pulmonary and Cardiac Maintenance) Class

The only class requiring annual medical eligibility review and written clearance is the Virtual Lungs in Action (Pulmonary and Cardiac Maintenance) Class. This is important to ensure that participants are safe to participate in virtual exercise and continue to meet the maintenance class criteria of:

  • having a stable chronic lung or heart condition AND
  • having completed pulmonary or cardiac rehabilitation within the last 6 months and remain in stable health (or have been participating in the maintenance class).

A specific Lungs in Action (Pulmonary and Cardiac Maintenance Class) section has been included on the Healthy Lifestyle Medical Clearance Form for doctors to complete. A copy of this form can be accessed on the home page.

If participants do not meet the class eligibility criteria, ie. have not been stable over the past 6 months, then a referral back to a suitable Cardiac or Pulmonary Rehabilitation program is suggested.  Referral to these services can be accessed in Northern Sydney Local Health District by contacting the Health Contact Centre on 1300 732 503 from 7:30am - 6:00pm Monday to Friday.

 

All other Healthy Lifestyle classes

For all other classes, medical review and clearance is only required for those participants who answer “Yes" to any of the Pre-Exercise Screening questions.  If participants do report changes in their medical or health status, Medical Clearance may be requested to confirm their safety to participate during the term.

We ask that when assessing a participants suitability for exercise, Doctors review the specific Class descriptions, suitability criteria and exercise contra-indications (listed on this web page).

If further information is required on class content and requirements, please contact Healthy Lifestyle on 9926 5555.

 

Exercise considerations

Aqua (pool-based) Exercise

Healthy Lifestyle offers a number of aqua fitness programs which are particularly beneficial for people who are overweight, less active, have joint problems or who are recovering from an injury.

Some of these classes (titled warm water classes) are held in specific hydrotherapy pools where the water temperature ranges from 30-34°C.

Aside from the standard considerations for exercise, aqua exercise classes are not suitable for those with:

  • In-continence (urinary and faecal)
  • Infections (urinary tract, vaginal or eye/ear)
  • Open wounds (such as skin tear, ulcer, sutures)
  • Skin conditions (such as tinea)
  • Acute cardiac or respiratory conditions
  • Poorly controlled blood pressure
  • Cannot mobilise independently, or with minimal support (e.g. walking aid). Participants need to be able to enter and exit the class and manage any transitions (e.g. pool entry), independently.

 

Land-based Exercise

Healthy Lifestyle offers a range of land-based exercise classes which incorporate aerobic, resistance-based, balance and mobility exercise.  Please refer to the specific Class Descriptions for further information on class intensity and suitability guidelines.

Some classes also provide the option for participants to use free weights or resistance band either hand held or attached around the ankles or wrist.  Our Exercise Leaders provide guidance on appropriate resistance/loading and also progress exercises according to capacity and safety.

Aside from the standard considerations for exercise, land-based exercise is not suitable for those with:

  • Acute or unstable cardiac or respiratory conditions.
  • Poorly controlled blood pressure or diabetes.
  • Acute or unstable musculo​​-skeletal conditions such as recent fractures, neurological compromise, disc prolapse.
  • Those experiencing recent falls or falls related injuries or who are unable to safely mobilise without stand-by supervision

 

Exercise Leaders

All of our Exercise Leaders are either qualified Fitness Professionals or Allied Health professionals with experience working with older adults. Our Exercise Leaders will deliver exercise classes which are suited for participation by a group of older adults with a mixture of ages and fitness levels.

 

Course Descriptions

Please refer to the Course Description tab to view specific information on class exercise type, intensity and suitability.

 COVID-19 information

  • Do not attend class if you are unwell or have any flu like symptoms or are confirmed as having COVID-19.
  • If you have any symptoms of COVID-19 please seek medical assistance and get tested.
  • Symptoms of COVID-19 include:
      • Fever 37.5 or higher
      • Cough
      • Sore/scratchy throat
      • Shortness of breath
      • Runny nose
      • Loss of smell or taste
  • Please see the following link to the NSW Government website for further information: www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19External Link
  • Participants arriving to class who are unwell or report any of the above symptoms will be advised they cannot participate in the class and to seek immediate medical attention and get tested for COVID-19.
  • Participants will be encouraged to use hand sanitiser on class entry and exit.
  • Participants are encouraged to practise hand hygiene and cough etiquette practices when coughing and sneezing.
  • Physical distancing, of 1.5m, will be maintained during the exercise class. Please follow the directions of our Exercise Leaders who will change choreography and positioning to allow for this.
  • No shared exercise equipment will be allowed in classes. Participants are to bring their own equipment to classes and take responsibility for its care. When chairs are used in class, participants will be asked to use the same chair.
  • All Healthy Lifestyle exercise class leaders must meet NSW Health mandatory COVID-19 vaccination and influenza requirements.
  • All Healthy Lifestyle participants are strongly encouraged to be fully vaccinated, including COVID-19 and influenza.

 Rights and responsibilities

​Your Rights as a Participant

 

You have the right to:

  • be treated with care, consideration and dignity
  • receive services that take into account your cultural and religious beliefs, values and traditions
  • be informed about the details of the Healthy Lifestyle Program to be delivered and any fees to be charged
  • have information about the Healthy Lifestyle Program imparted in a manner which is understandable to you and that is accurate and consistent
  • be able to discuss any relevant topic within the group and to have your opinions treated with respect and confidentiality by the leader
  • expect that reasonable care will be taken and that a physically safe environment, (including premises, equipment and organisation of activities) will be established in which courses will be delivered
  • have programs delivered in a professional manner consistent with the aims and objectives of the program
  • be informed of and have access to other services offered by the Health Promotion Unit
  • ask questions and have questions answered
  • have all personal information and records kept confidential unless the law requires otherwise
  • be informed of the complaints procedure by leader
  • make a complaint, have your complaint investigated and receive a prompt reply to your complaint
  • refuse to be involved in research projects
  • be fully informed about any research or study in which you have agreed to be involved
  • be informed of health resources in the community
  • the services of a qualified interpreter, provided by the Department of Health, to assist you in understanding the services we offer.

 

 

Your Responsibilities as a Participant

 

You have a responsibility to Healthy Lifestyle to:

  • be considerate and respectful towards other participants and our staff and to treat them with dignity
  • read information that is forwarded to you e.g.​​ 'Safety Guidelines' answer questions about your health frankly and honestly, inform the leaders if you are not going to follow program and accept responsibility for this decision
  • support all occupational health and safety initiatives developed to maintain your health and safety
  • comply with reasonable requests from staff in relation to occupational health and safety matters
  • comply with reasonable directives, given by leaders in groups, that relate to the subject being presented.

 

To receive more information on your rights or assistance to resolve your concerns contact:
Healthy Lifestyle
Level 5, RNSH CHC, 2C Herbert Street, St. Leonards, NSW 2065
Phone: (02) 9926 5555
Fax: (02) 9462 9078
Email: NSLHD-HealthyLifestyle@health.nsw.gov.au

 Other exercise resources

​If you are unable to attend your regular exercise program with us, there are a range of other resources that may assist you to keep active and safe in the meantime.

 

Visit our Active Ageing Resources page for more information.