NEW RESOURCE TO GET MEN OFF THE COUCH

Minister for Ageing John Ajaka today used International Day of Older Persons to encourage older men to get active, launching Real Men Move, a three-year initiative aimed at getting men over 40 off the couch.

Real Men Move is a website and initiative to increase participation in physical activity to support healthy ageing and will form part of the 2016 NSW Seniors Week- Healthy Living.

Mr Ajaka said the Real Men Move website has been created to inspire men to increase their participation in physical activity and provide exercise options for all interests and fitness levels.

“We are all aware of the importance of maintaining physical activity throughout our lives but statistics tell us that when men reach a certain age they simply stop being as active,” Mr Ajaka said.

“I am delighted to launch this great resource today and to encourage older men to take responsibility for their own health.”

Mr Ajaka was joined by the Chief Executive Officer of Exercise & Sports Science Australia Ms Anita Hobson-Powell.

Ms Hobson-Powell said the website also offers resources for partners and friends to encourage their loved ones to kick start an exercise regime.

“Sometimes, all it takes is a push in the right direction and some encouragement from family and friends for people to recognise the importance of getting fit and to start exercising,” Ms Hobson-Powell said.