A Year of Feel Good Saturdays Thanks to Sport England

Thank you to Sport England for funding Coin Street’s Feel Good Saturday sessions over the past year.

These weekly sessions, held at the Colombo Centre, offer fitness activities like gym circuits, badminton, and chair yoga. In 2024, over 100 older adults participated, with a focus on encouraging those less active to join in, stay fit, and make new friends.

The £10,074 funding was crucial in securing experienced, trained personal trainers and community workers who lead weekly sessions. Beyond leading sessions, they dedicate time and care to ensure participants feel heard, welcomed, and that the Colombo Centre remains a safe, joyful space to spend their Saturdays.

Personal trainer Engin, who began as an apprentice at the Centre at age 17 over a decade ago, shares his inspiration: “The progress the seniors have made is incredible. Before attending the gym, most of the group rarely exercised. Some used walking sticks, and one person carried an oxygen pump. Now, they no longer need them.”

“We focus on building strength and flexibility. For example, in the gym sessions, seniors practice deadlifting with proper form to strengthen their lower backs. This helps them pick up items from the floor safely and handle everyday tasks like reaching for tins in the cupboard or opening heavy doors. The yoga sessions support this too.”

“There are other fitness classes for older adults, but what sets Feel Good Saturday apart is its sense of community. Some seniors are socially isolated, and they often share how much they look forward to the sessions. It truly brightens their week.”

Join us in making a difference! We’re seeking partners for Feel Good Saturday and other impactful initiatives that support older adults in Waterloo and North Southwark, helping them stay active, connected, and healthy. Email fundraising@coinstreet.org to explore partnership opportunities for you and your organisation today.

Watch this video to learn more about the Colombo Centre gym.