After years of training a wide range of different abilities and groups, a mutual passion was discovered when they both gained experience in helping older people increase their physical abilities.
Using principles from OTAGO training, along with their extensive health and fitness knowledge, they designed a session to improve strength & balance for individuals that need it the most. The classes draw on a variety of techniques, including mobility exercises, resistance bands and hand/leg weights. Tom and Gareth adapt all exercises to suit individual’s needs, to ensure that participants feel the full benefits of the classes.
Although the main aim of the session is to reduce the risk of falls, Elderfit also aims to strengthen upper body muscles for participants, so if a fall does happen they will be more able to pull themselves back up. Creating independence is a key element to the classes, therefore helping people re-discover their confidence and stability.
Elderfit sessions undergo regular progress checks to ensure that there is evidence both of the physical and psychological benefits. Tom and Gareth encourage feedback from attendees, and are constantly adapting and changing the content of the classes based on requirements.
Postural Stability Instructor (PSI). Evidence based level 4 qualification. Teaches backward chaining – how to get up from a fall
of staff report significant increase in mobility
increased confidence when walking
increase in general wellbeing
Gareth
I’m Gareth, a health and wellbeing specialist from Cardiff. I’ve worked in the industry for over 15 years, helping people of all abilities and ages discover their interest in fitness. This experience led to me co-founding Elderfit with Tom in 2015, and it's been one of the greatest achievements of my working life; being able to support people and change their lives. My hobbies include triathlons, cycling and walks on the beach with my shih tzu Lola.
Tom
My name is Tom and I am co-director of Elderfit. I've always had an interest in fitness and wellbeing, and have over 15 years of experience in the industry. Working for Elderfit is incredibly rewarding; meeting different people everyday and seeing the difference make to their lives is immensely gratifying. My hobbies include going to the gym, skiing and collecting vintage starwars figures!
Talik
I'm Talik from Cardiff. Working in the leisure industry for more than 10 years, I am an experienced coach and trainer. I've always wanted to help people from a young age and getting into fitness made this possible as I could help people with becoming healthier. Since working with older adults I have seen why I wanted to do this in the first place. I love making a difference in people's lives and this is exactly what we do at Elderfit.
Scott
My love for health and fitness started when I began karate aged 11. I have worked my way up to 4th Degree Black Belt which I obtained in 2015. I have ran my own club, coaching students to success at World Championships. Aside from my martial arts, I am a movement coach and train my clients how to walk and run more efficiently. It's a great niche area to specialise in as it relates to human evolution and reducing pain. My other interests include Bristol Rovers, geography, music and reading books.
