Helping older adults stay strong, active and independent

Strength & Balance classes are about more than exercise. They’re a friendly and social way for older adults to build strength and balance, stay active and maintain confidence and independence in everyday life.

Helping make that happen are instructors like Johanna Araya, one of the newest instructors to join the Keep On Your Feet Strength & Balance whānau. Johanna has worked in fitness for many years and has been teaching older adults for around nine years. She’s also an Aqua Fitness instructor and is passionate about helping people stay active, strong and confident.

We took five with Johanna to find out what she enjoys about Strength & Balance and what newcomers can expect from her class at Elizabeth Street Hall.

1. What inspired you to become a Strength & Balance instructor?

“I wanted to help older adults feel stronger, more confident and independent in their everyday lives.”

For Johanna, it’s about much more than exercise. Her class is part of ACC’s Live Stronger for Longer falls prevention programme, which supports older New Zealanders to improve their strength and balance and stay active and independent.

2. What can people expect when they come to your class?

"A friendly and welcoming class where we work on strength, balance and mobility. Everyone can work at their own pace, and most importantly, have fun!"

"The sessions focus on strength, balance and mobility, with plenty of fun along the way."

3. Tell us a little about your background and experience

"I wanted to help older adults feel stronger, more confident and independent in their everyday lives."

4. What would you say to someone who is nervous about coming along for the first time?

“It’s never too late to start! The class is friendly, relaxed and suitable for different abilities. Come along, give it a try and have some fun.”

5. What do you enjoy most about teaching Strength & Balance?

“Seeing someone become stronger and more confident is always a big win for me. I love hearing, ‘I couldn’t do that before!’”

Come along and meet Johanna:

📍 Elizabeth Street Hall, 169 Elizabeth Street
📅 Every Thursday at 11am
💲 $8 per person

Or visit the Live Stronger for Longer website to find a class near you.

Find a class near you

Why not give it a go? It’s never too late to start feeling stronger, steadier and more confident.