A Gwynedd Council Leisure Centre has its very own celebrity couple – with a combined age of 166, Reg and Gill Hallwood from Rhosgadfan are living proof that you’re never too old to get up and get active.
The couple have been regulars at the Glaslyn Leisure Centre in Porthmadog for many years. The couple were referred to the National Exercise Referral Scheme at Plas Silyn Leisure Centre, Penygroes in 2009.
Reg who is 90 years old was encouraged to attend the exercise programme by his GP to strengthen his legs after breaking his achilles tendon some years previously. Gill who is 76 was advised to attend following a knee operation. Both completed the 16-week programme under the supervision of the qualified Exercise Professional.
Since then the couple have been regulars at the Glaslyn Leisure Centre, Porthmadog where Gill attends the Aqua Aerobics workout while Reg attends the gym.
Gill said: “It was very useful for us both to attend the Exercise Referral Scheme, we learnt about which exercises were suitable, but most importantly it was really great to meet other people in the class, it was a social get-together which helped motivate us to keep attending every week.”
Reg, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday added: “Apart from the exercises I do in the gym I also exercise at home – it’s so important for me to keep going which helps me in my daily life. A useful bit of advice I would give to anyone near retirement age is to plan an active hobby this focus has made the world of difference to me. Keeping the body and the mind active works wonders.”
Reg recently suffered a fall near his home where he sustained some painful injuries, however his recovery was remarkable and he is now back in the gym.
Councillor Roy Owen, Gwynedd Council portfolio holder with responsibility for leisure, said:
“It is extremely gratifying to see people of all ages and capacity making use of the facilities on offer at Gwynedd Council’s local leisure centres to improve their health and fitness. I am thankful to the members of staff who do a fantastic job by helping and supporting users in their efforts to live an active and healthy lifestyle.”
There are Gwynedd Council-run leisure centres in all parts of the county, offering a wide-range of health and fitness activities. For more information about what’s on offer and opening hours visit your local centre or go to the website: www.gwynedd.gov.uk/leisure
