AGE UK Bolton working to get people into fitness again

A study by Age UK reveals that early experiences in physical education are discouraging thousands of people aged 50 to 65 from staying active.

The figures show half of people in the North West dreaded PE lessons in childhood, and more than half a million now feel put off sport for life as a result.

The findings come as part of Age UK’s new campaign, Act Now, Age Better, which aims to inspire midlifer’s to get active for a healthier later life.

Lauren McKechnie, chief executive of Age UK Bolton, said: “Being physically active is one of the most powerful things we can do for our health and happiness.

“It supports not only our physical wellbeing, but our mental health, independence, social connection and sense of purpose—benefits that ripple far beyond the individual.

“When people are supported to move more, everyone wins.”

Senior couple jogging in a park (Image: Getty Images)

The campaign brings together more than 40 national sport and activity partners, including British Cycling, Badminton England and England Netball, to help reintroduce exercise in a more inclusive and supportive way, reflecting changes over the past 30 to 40 years.

Age UK Bolton is backing the campaign and offering a variety of activities as part of its Strength and Balance programme and other community sessions.

Ms McKechnie added: “At Age UK Bolton, we have a specialist Strength and Balance offer, alongside a variety of community-based sessions—from gentle dance to tai chi—helping people to stay active in ways that feel accessible and enjoyable.

“What truly sets Bolton apart, however, is the strength of our partnership approach.”

She highlighted the charity’s work with Bolton Council, Active Bolton, and Bolton Wanderers in the Community to create a “broad, inclusive and accessible range of opportunities” for older adults.

She said: “Together, we are creating the conditions for people to stay well, connected and independent for longer.”

The research also found that 42 per cent of people in the target age group feel anxious about joining a sports group or class at their age.

However, there remains a high level of interest, with 23 per cent of midlifers saying they would be motivated by age-specific classes, 19 per cent wanting more beginner-only sessions, and 16 per cent interested in making new friends through activities.

Individuals engaging in a vibrant fitness session, performing dumbbell exercises in a well-lit gym, promoting health, endurance, and teamwork in a lively and motivational environment. (Image: Kaspi Creative Inc.)

The campaign features support from sports and media personalities including Dame Kelly Holmes, Sally Gunnell, Dame Denise Lewis, and Gabby Logan.

Dame Kelly Holmes said: “The benefits of sport and exercise are endless.

“It doesn’t matter whether you’re a professional athlete competing on a world stage, or a busy parent who has just managed to carve out a few hours for yourself one evening a week to head along to your local netball group.

“It’s about self-care, making new connections, feeling team spirit, supporting mental health, getting outside and feeling strong and capable for as long as possible.

“Age UK’s Act Now, Age Better campaign is a fantastic reminder of all those things and how important they can be for someone in midlife who is looking to increase their chances of living a better later life.

“It might feel like a small thing, or a task that can be shoved to the bottom of a never-ending to-do list, but trust me – it can make a world of difference.”

The campaign will run throughout the summer, with many partners offering free taster sessions and resources to help people try new activities in a welcoming environment.

More information about the Act Now, Age Better campaign can be found at www.ageuk.org.uk/actnow.