KUCHING: A group of enthusiastic seniors participating in a swimming programme is inspiring even more of their peers to join in.
Ian Yeo, senior coach of the ‘Basic Sports Training Skills said Seniors Swimming’ programme lessons begin with basic training, teaching seniors how to float before progressing to swimming techniques.
“We have four coaches, but we divide them into groups for the six-hour sessions. Our focus is on helping them learn how to float and master the basics,” he said.
He noted that the response has been positive, with seniors learning quickly, and he observed that the men tend to catch on faster than the women.
“They are doing well, although their stamina is somewhat limited due to their age. However, their techniques are good.
“Some participants already know how to swim but need help with proper technique, so we focus on rectifying that,” he told New Sarawak Tribune when met at the Sarawak State Youth and Sports Complex on Friday.
Yeo also commended the seniors for their enthusiasm throughout the program.
Additionally, one of the participants, Nina Lepin Abdullah, 67, praised the programme for its benefits to seniors.
“I think this is very good for the elderly. We do exercises that benefit our hands and all our nerves. I believe the government should organise more sessions like this, twice a month.”
“Since I joined the group, I no longer have cholesterol-it’s all gone. My health is getting better, and I really want to thank the Sarawak government,” she said.
Meanwhile, her friend Zaiton Bohari, 66, was happy to point out that she no longer struggles with being in the water.
“Before, I got a phobia about water, but after joining the class-only after three sessions-I have improved. I can even do bubbling now. Previously, I didn’t dare to, but I have overcome some of my fears,” she added.
Furthermore, an older senior in the group, Ngui How Cheng, 72, encouraged more seniors to participate in the programme due to the rising incidence of diabetes in Malaysia, stating that one in five people has diabetes.
“Exercise is one way to control diabetes and reduce associated risks, such as hypertension, kidney disease, stroke, and heart disease.
“Additionally, swimming is suitable for the elderly; they don’t have to worry about fractures or injuries.
“In the water, they are not exposed to dangers, and swimming allows for comprehensive movement, engaging the whole body. This type of exercise should definitely be encouraged,” he said.
The group also shared that the programme creates camaraderie among participants and fosters friendships.
“We didn’t know each other before, but now we’ve made more friends. We really appreciate our coach; he is very tolerant. The elderly often have a lot of complaints, but he listens to them,” they said collectively.
