Fitness in Action
City & Hackney NHS Health Provider Case
Study
Philip Moonsam
What do you offer and where?
I offer a class of soft exercise to music for mature adults. The
class is called, Tai Fit, and it involves sitting on chairs and
standing, with slight, fluid movement set to mellow music.
The classes are held at the Vietnamese, Laos & Cambodian
(VLC) Community Centre, 51 Whiston Rd, Haggerston E2 8BN, 020 7739
3650, Wed & Sat 10:30am-12:30pm, with 1 or 2 breaks throughout.
This is the longest running exercise class at the VLC.
How much do the classes cost?
Very affordable @ £1 per person, per class
Why do you offer the classes?
To encourage people to exercise their various body systems. The
VLC also wants to always offer exercise to the older community
How long have you offered Tai Fit?
For 3 years at the VLC. On a personal level, I have been
involved in various forms of martial arts for over 30 years.
Who attends the classes?
The classes are aimed at mature adults. Our oldest member is 72
years old. Primarily older Vietnamese (and a few Ghanaians) attend.
Everyone is welcome, but younger people find it a bit slow moving
for them.
In April, we hope to offer more classes and to the wider
community of different cultures.
Are there any restrictions or criteria to attend the
classes?
There are no real restrictions. You should be a mature adult,
and you should check with your doctor first before starting any
exercise programme. All shapes and sizes attend.
I recommend that you wear soft shoes or trainers; plus possibly
a tracksuit bottom and a t-shirt (basically, any loose-fitting
clothing will be fine).
Why do people attend Tai Fit?
People attend Tai Fit to socialise and to keep supple, active
and fit. They also attend to improve and maintain their wellbeing
and vitality.
What is the biggest benefit gained from attending Tai Fit?
As above, the improved wellbeing, flexibility and vitality; but
also, many members have told me how soreness or stiffness that they
had in certain joints, such as knees, or possibly in their necks,
have been sorted out, and no longer exist.
Has anyone really improved their health/weight as a result of
attending Tai Fit classes?
I have seen many members’ body shapes change. Their bodies are
now firmer and more toned. They look younger and have improved
posture. Also, attending Tai Fit has encouraged and motivated them
to do other exercises such as walking and line dancing.
What is your advice for people who want to improve their
health/weight?
Anyone who wants to improve their health and/or weight should
join some sort of activity class, and attend it consistently. Be
patient with your progress, and you will see gradual and
long-lasting change. You will be glad you joined, and your overall
lifestyle will improve because you will have that ‘get up and go’
to do all kinds of things in your life!