Gait Speed and Grip Strength: Do they matter?

Gait Speed and Grip Strength: Do they matter?

Older adults who walk quickly (faster gait) have a better life expectancy. Did you know that? Probably it is no surprise to find out that faster walkers will live longer than those who walk slowly. BUT Did you know that grip strength is also a good predictor of...
Is being ‘Mindful’ a Fad?

Is being ‘Mindful’ a Fad?

Remember when meditation was viewed with mild suspicion? Slightly ‘left of centre’? And for hippy types from the 60s? All that has changed.   Research now confirms what wisdom traditions have known all along: Meditation is good for your brain, body and emotional...
Osteoporosis – the Silent Disease

Osteoporosis – the Silent Disease

Did you know? After the age of 50 1 in 2 women and 1 in 5 men in NZ will suffer a fracture? These alarming statistics are due to the nature of osteoporotic bones that quite literally become brittle and fracture very easily sometimes following a seemingly minor...
Sitting is the new Smoking!

Sitting is the new Smoking!

Sadly, ‘sitting is the new smoking’ may well be the case as emerging research alarmingly suggests that prolonged sitting can be as bad for our health as smoking. (See the poster sitting-facts) Here are 3 compelling reasons from Kris to take regular breaks:...
“I’ve Got a Bad Back!”

“I’ve Got a Bad Back!”

It’s a rare person who hasn’t uttered these words at some time or another. Our long-suffering lower back can get a bit grumpy when we’ve not treated it well. How does this pain happen?  Too much bending forward – as in gardening, Lifting or twisting awkwardly...
Stepping Up.

Stepping Up.

Do you live in a single level bungalow or apartment? There are many advantages if you do. But if you want to continue negotiating bus steps and stairs in public, you have nothing much to practise on!   Practise keeping strong for steps and stairs.   With...