IT’S fabulous to be over 50 in Frankston according to the 160 energetic members of the ‘Frankston Fabulous 50s’ swimming group.
The club, which runs weekly aqua aerobics sessions in PARC’s hydrotherapy pool, was recognised at this month’s public council meeting by Frankston Council for its commitment to “community connectedness” and ongoing efforts to keep members active and engaged with the community.
Club president Judy Laux said the club was “delighted” to be thanked by the council, after 35 years of uniting Frankston’s older residents through fitness, social activities and friendship.
“It means a lot that the club is recognised for the valuable contribution it makes to the lives of people over 50,” she said.
Ms Laux said she joined the club 18 years ago and had instantly “found a new reason to get out of the house”.
“At that time I was in a bit of a rut, I was a bit lonely and disconnected from the community and didn’t have much reason to socialise until a friend suggested I have a go at swimming with the fabulous 50s,” she said.
“Well, it’s been a godsend. It saved my life.”
Ms Laux said she loved the friendliness of the club and the variety of social events based around club life. The club welcomes all people over 50, and there is no age limit, with the majority of members over 70, and the oldest member 103.
So well known for the health benefits it provides to members, the club regularly gets enquiries from prospective members who have been “referred” by their doctor or who need further rehabilitation after injuries.
“Not only are we active, but we are always doing something, whether it’s a movie, or a dinner or just a coffee after a session, so if you like to get out of the house you can.”
The club has two qualified instructors for the water aerobic sessions, and participants are encouraged to exercise at their own pace.
“We’ve even taught people who have never swum or had much to do with the water, so it’s a club that’s open to everyone.”
The Frankston Fabulous 50s celebrated its 35th birthday on Wednesday (1 March), with a dinner at the Frankston RSL.
Call Judy Laux on 9781 4272 about joining the club.