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Fitness Courses in Detail

 

FIT 01: BADMINTON: WEDNESDAY
Organiser: Mo Sibbons
Day and time: Wednesday 10.00 - 12.00
Venue: Kelsey Kerridge Sports Centre
Terms: Autumn, spring.         
Number of places: 20

All experienced players welcome.  This is not a session suitable for beginners.
Note: Starts 2nd September.

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FIT 02: BADMINTON: FRIDAY
Organiser: Mike Walker
Day and time: Friday 10.00 - 12.00
Venue: Kelsey Kerridge Sports Centre
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 24

Badminton is excellent exercise and great fun.  This course is one that has run successfully for 7 years and has now expanded to run twice a week.  Three courts are booked at Kelsey Kerridge, allowing almost continuous play for 2 hours, though many people choose to take a few breaks!  We play every week throughout the year, regardless of U3AC term dates, but there are a few times a year when major events in the sports hall give us a week off.  From April to September the two groups combine and only play on Fridays.  There is no coaching or tuition, and some experience in badminton is essential.  Standards vary from very social to quite competitive.  Just turn up and enjoy yourself.  Rackets are provided. The cost is £2.30 per session, levied by KKSC.

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FIT 03: CIRCLE DANCING
Tutor: Ursula Stubbings   
Day and time: Monday 1.15 - 2.45           
Venue: The Centre at St Pauls, Hills Road
Terms: Autumn, spring.         
Number of places: 40

Sometimes called Sacred Dance, these dances are drawn from all cultures but mainly Eastern European, Greek and Israeli.  All dances are done in a circle and partners are not necessary.  Dances will be chosen to suit the group - many are slow and meditative, but more lively ones can be included.  The atmosphere evoked by moving to this beautiful and traditional music is very therapeutic.  Previous members must enrol formally if they wish to continue.  New members are always welcome.

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FIT 04: EASY RAMBLING
Organisers: Keith Dixon , Peter Spreadbury & David Evans
Day and time: Alternate Thursdays 9.45 - 1.30  
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 58

Easy Rambling is for people who are happy to walk in all weathers.  Walking is on alternate Thursdays, with members divided into two groups.  The walks mostly start within 15 miles of Cambridge, cover between 5 and 6 miles, and take about 2½  hours.  Stout footwear and outdoor clothing are essential and a stick is advisable.  Each walk is followed by a pub lunch.  (Optional but enjoyable)
Note: There will be an introductory meeting at 10.15 am on Thursday 24th September at St James' Church, Wulfstan Way, Cambridge.  All members are expected to attend, especially new walkers, when the programme of walks will be distributed.  Applicants should indicate if they are willing to lead a walk.

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FIT 05: EXERCISE GROUP 1
Co-ordinator: Margaret Debono
Day and time: Monday 10.00 - 11.00
Venue: The Studio, Kelsey Kerridge Sports Centre
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 25

Exercise to music, which aims to improve fitness, flexibility and strength is taught by a suitably qualified member of the KK staff.  Comfortable clothing and trainers/plimsolls to change into required.  The class runs throughout the year, except August, for a total of 36 weeks.  There are half term breaks to coincide with local schools.
Please make a note of dates:
7 September - 14 December 2009 not 26 October
4 January - 22 March 2010 not 15 February
19 April - 12 July 2010 not 3 May or 31 May
Note: There is an additional fee of £36 for the year to be paid in advance with application form.

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FIT 06: EXERCISE GROUP 2
Co-ordinator: Margaret Debono       
Day and time: Monday 11.00 - 12.00
Venue: The Studio, Kelsey Kerridge Sports Centre
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 25

As FIT 05.  Please make a note of dates. Starts 7th September
Note:
There is an additional fee of £36 for the year to be paid in advance with application form.

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FIT 07: GENTLE EXERCISE
Co-ordinator: Jennifer Houghton
Day and time: Monday 10.00 - 11.00
Venue: Friends Meeting House, Jesus Lane
Terms: Autumn, spring.         
Number of places: 15

This class will be a self-help group following the gentle exercises of previous years, aiming at improving posture and maintaining mobility of the joints.  Members may do as much or as little as they wish.  Please bring a small mat or blanket to lie on, and one or two paperbacks for a headrest.

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FIT 08: GENTLE WALKING
Co-ordinators: Maureen Newton, Penny Ainsworth & Philip Noble
Day and time: Alternate Wednesdays 10.15 - 12.30
Terms: Autumn, spring.         
Number of places: 20

These walks are designed for those who enjoy walking gently in the countryside for 3-4 miles.  Walks will avoid stiles and paths difficult to negotiate, as far as possible and there will be a pause mid-walk.  They will start within 15 miles of Cambridge at a village pub where lunch can be taken after the walk.

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FIT 09: MOVING WITH EASE: THE FELDENKRAIS METHOD ® (SPRING & SUMMER TERMS)
Tutor: Susan Dillon           
Day and time: Tuesday 11.15 - 12.15
Venue: Friends Meeting House, Jesus Lane
Terms: Spring, summer.      
Number of places: 12

This course, based on the work of Dr Moshe Feldenkrais, will help you learn to move with minimum effort and maximum efficiency - not by using muscular strength but by becoming more aware of how you move.  You will be verbally guided through sequences of movements in basic positions: sitting or lying on the floor, standing, or sitting in a chair.  The emphasis will be on recognising habitual movement patterns and developing new alternatives.  These sometimes subtle movements are relaxing and help to increase flexibility and co-ordination.  You may wish to bring a towel or blanket to put on top of the mats that will be provided.

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FIT 10: RAMBLING
Leader: Philip Shaw
Day and time: Thursday 9.00 - 3.30 
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer (all year).           
Number of places: 65

Rambling is for those who wish a day's walking each week for 51 weeks of the year.  The walks are mostly within 25 miles of Cambridge and are between 8 and 11 miles.  Appropriate outdoor clothing is essential.  In winter we use pubs for lunch, in the warmer months we take a picnic.

Programme of walks

Programme of walks - summer 2010

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FIT 11: ROWING
Co-ordinator: Kate Merrington  
Day and time: Wednesday 10.00 - 12.00
Venue: Lady Margaret Boathouse, Victoria Avenue
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 12

This class is part of Camrowers, a club which provides recreational, non-competitive rowing for pleasure and health.  Instruction is provided by 2 qualified coaches.  St John's College kindly lets us use their facilities, which include changing rooms and showers and a place to make coffee.  Sessions start with a warm-up on indoor rowing machines before going out on the river.  We have a selection of single sculls (mostly 'Virus' training boats).  For those that are more experienced we have a coxed quad four and a coxed double.  The only requirement is that you can swim 50 metres.

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FIT 12: SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING
Tutor: Hazel Ashment      
Day and time: Wednesday 2.00 - 4.00  
Venue: Unitarian Church, Emmanuel Road
Terms: Autumn, spring.         
Number of places: 10

The main object of this class is to have lots of fun and laughter.  You should be quite fit to try this form of dancing.  It can be a real challenge mentally as well as physically.  You don't need a partner or a kilt but you do need soft shoes (trainers would be too clumsy) and a cold drink.
Note: No class 2 December, meet 16 December instead.

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FIT 13: TABLE TENNIS (AM)
Organiser: Richard Newstead   
Day and time: Tuesday 10.00 - 12.00
Venue: Kelsey Kerridge Sports Centre
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 22

Table tennis is beneficial for hand-eye co-ordination, and is surprisingly good exercise but the main objective is simply to have fun.  The groups encompass a wide range of ability.  The Kelsey Kerridge supply bats and balls and the cost is £2.30 per session.
Note: Starts 13th October.

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FIT 14: TABLE TENNIS (PM)
Leaders: Anne Pitman & John Fairclough   
Day and time: Tuesday 2.00 - 4.00           
Venue: Kelsey Kerridge Sports Centre
Terms: Autumn, spring.         
Number of places: 22

Table tennis is a delightful game, good exercise and useful for hand-eye co-ordination but the main objective is to enjoy it.  The standard varies a great deal.  Don't worry if you haven't played for many years, just come along and try your hand again.  Bats and balls are provided by Kelsey Kerridge and the cost at time of writing is £2.30 per session.
Note: Starts 13th October.

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FIT 15: TABLE TENNIS 3
Co-ordinators: Lilas Davison  & Dieter Benziger     
Day and time: Monday 2.00 - 4.00           
Venue: St Andrew's Hall, Chesterton
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 20

All welcome to join us playing table tennis.  Bats and balls provided.  No extra charge.  Closed on Bank Holidays.

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FIT 16: TABLE TENNIS ALL YEAR
Leaders: Roger Salmon & Hazel Ashment      
Day and time: Friday 3.00 - 5.00  
Venue: St Andrew's Hall, Chesterton
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer (all year).           
Number of places: 32

We will play on a drop in basis, throughout the year including vacations but excluding bank holidays.  Sessions will be open to all members of U3AC table tennis courses. These will cost £2 per member per session to cover the hire of the hall, payable on the day. If there are less than 10 members intending to play at any session then it will be cancelled as it is not economically viable for St Andrew's Hall.  You need to know how to play (there will not be any instruction), and subject to that all standards welcome.   We are seeking more co-leaders, so please say if you would be willing to help supervise some of the time. 
Note: Starts 25th September.

Late amendment - this class will not run outside term times.

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FIT 17: T'AI CHI CHUAN AND CHI KUNG BEGINNERS PART 1
Tutor: Mike Tabrett         
Day and time: Wednesday 11.50 - 12.50
Venue: Kelsey Kerridge Sports Centre
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 15

These arts, based on the healing, meditative and martial traditions of China are becoming increasingly recognised as ideal practices to enhance health and wellbeing accessible to all ages.  We will work with posture, breath and movement to develop individual exercises and a flowing sequence that can be practised regularly.  We will work at a gentle pace, with the emphasis on slow individual development to enable each student to come to their own understanding of these arts; I expect the full course to last over 2 years.  No previous experience is required.  Please wear loose, comfortable clothing and soft shoes.  Please note that this class will require you to be standing for an hour; if you have any concerns about your ability to do this class please contact the tutor.  We will take a half-term break to coincide with local schools. 
Dates: 14 October - 16 December, not 28 October
13 January - 24 March, not 17 February
21 April - 26 May
Note: Additional fee for year: £32

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FIT 18: T'AI CHI CHUAN AND CHI KUNG BEGINNERS PART 2
Tutor: Mike Tabrett         
Day and time: Wednesday 9.30 - 10.30
Venue: Kelsey Kerridge Sports Centre
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 20

This class will be a continuation of the Beginners 1 class held last year.  We will continue learning the Short Form and basic principles in the same way as last year, aiming to complete the sequence by the end of the academic year.  Please note that this class will require you to be standing for an hour; if you have any concerns about your ability to do this class please contact the tutor.
As usual we will take half-term breaks to coincide with school terms.  See FIT 17 for dates.
Note: Additional fee for year: £32

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FIT 19: T'AI CHI CHUAN AND CHI KUNG INTERMEDIATE
Tutor: Mike Tabrett         
Day and time: Wednesday 10.40 - 11.40
Venue: Kelsey Kerridge Sports Centre
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 20

This course will work with the whole of the Short Form and exercise programme to enable students to develop and deepen their practice.  You will need to have completed a beginner's course, although enthusiasm is more important than skill!  We will take a half-term break to coincide with local schools.  See FIT 17 for dates.
Note: Additional fee for year: £32

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FIT 20: TAP DANCE
Secretary: Barbara Patterson
Day and time: Tuesday 2.00 - 3.00
Venue: Small Hall, St Columba's Church, Downing Place
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 15

This course has been running for a few years and therefore may not be suitable for total beginners.  New members would be most welcome to this friendly group.  A tutor from Cambridge University is employed to teach the class for which there is an additional fee of £15 per term.

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FIT 21: THIRD AGE DANCE
Tutor: Maddy Tongue        
Day and time: Wednesday 11.00 - 12.00
Venue: St Andrew's Hall, Chesterton
Terms: Autumn, spring (8 weeks each term)            
Number of places: 24

This course is a continuation from previous years for all the aging dancers who enjoy this Laban based approach to movement and dance.
Note: 8 weeks only.  Starts 7th October.

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FIT 22: VERY SHORT WALKS GROUP
Co-ordinators: Judy Wilson, Barbara Tregear & Kerstin Large
Day and time: Alternate Thursdays 10.30 - 12.00
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 20

This new group is for members who enjoy a good country walk at a reasonable pace, but are limited in how far they can go, for whatever reason.  The group will plan 2 - 3 mile walks, with 3 - 5 mile routes some weeks, the length to be reviewed before the end of the first term.  We will all hopefully take it in turns to be leader or deputy leader of a walk at some point.  Use of sticks, rainwear and strong footwear are recommended.
An optional pub lunch is arranged for the end of the walk where this is possible.  We will mostly choose routes within about 10 miles of Cambridge.  And we will exchange contact details so people can arrange to share transport.
On alternate Thursdays from 15th October leaders will do a recce of the walk to be done the following week - members are welcome to join in.
An initial meeting will be held on Thursday 1st October at 10.30am in Room 3, 33 Bridge Street.  Everyone is asked to attend if possible.

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FIT 23: WALKING FOR PLEASURE fortnightly group
Organiser: Philip Shaw
Day and time: Alternate Tuesdays 9.30 - 3.00 
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 65

Walks are on alternate Tuesdays.  The walks start within 25 miles of Cambridge, are between 5 and 6 miles and take about 2 - 2½ hours.  We walk in most weathers.  Appropriate outdoor clothing is essential and a stick is advisable.  An 'optional' pub lunch is arranged for the end of the walk.  We are interested in members who are intent on walking regularly.

Fortnightly programme of walks

Fortnightly programme of walks - summer 2010

For weekly group see FIT 32

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FIT 24: WALKING - 6 MILES
Co-ordinator: Robin Turner
Day and time: Monday 9.50 - 12.40        
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 30

The walks will average 6 miles lasting about 2½ hours.  They will start within about 15 miles of Cambridge at a village pub, where lunch can be taken.  Additional walks outside the official terms will also be arranged.  Members are encouraged to car-share.

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FIT 25: YOGA: MONDAY
Leader: Clive Whitfield      
Day and time: Monday 2.00 - 3.15           
Venue: Friends Meeting House, Hartington Grove
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 15

We practise a wide range of Yoga poses including stretching, balancing and relaxation to increase suppleness and flexibility.  You should check with your doctor before starting any new exercise regime, or if you have any health problems.  You should wear loose stretchable clothing and bring a non-slip yoga mat.

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FIT 26: YOGA: TUESDAY
Leader: Janet Scally
Day and time: Tuesday 2.00 - 3.15           
Venue: Friends Meeting House, Hartington Grove
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 18

We practise a wide range of Yoga poses including stretching, balancing and relaxation to increase our suppleness and flexibility.  Check with your doctor if necessary before enrolling.  You will need to wear loose clothing and use a non-slip mat.

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FIT 27: YOGA: THURSDAY
Tutor: Julia Dale      
Day and time: Thursday 10.45 - 12.15
Venue: Unitarian Church, Emmanuel Road
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 12

Alignment in Yoga asanas soothes and strengthens the body, preparing the mind for meditation.  These classes will also focus on simple breathing and relaxation in savasana.  Do bring a blanket with you, and a mat if you already have one.  Wear suitable clothing - not constricting; bare feet.  Check with your doctor, if necessary, before enrolling.

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FIT 28: YOGA PRACTICE
Organiser: Nadia Asho
Day and time: Monday 11.15 - 12.15
Venue: Friends Meeting House, Jesus Lane
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 20

Designed for those who never seem to have the time to practise but also suitable for beginners.  The session will be based entirely on dvds and video cassettes.  It will be a self-help group.
You will need to wear loose clothing and bring a non-slip mat.  Check with your doctor before enrolling.

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FIT 29: YOGA AND RELAXATION
Leader: Richard M Parker         
Day and time: Wednesday 9.45 - 11.00
Venue: The Centre at St Pauls, Hills Road
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 23

Yoga means 'union' and thus the practices aim to integrate the various aspects of one's being.  It saves energy and controls the activities of the mind.  It can be an aid to religion.  It is a system of spiritual mental and physical development.  The Yoga methods are a multi-dimensional approach, incorporating physical postures, breathing techniques, diet, massage, relaxation, meditation and philosophy.

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FIT 30: YOGA AND RELAXATION
Tutor: Kate Grillet           
Day and time: Wednesday 11.15 - 12.45
Venue: The Centre at St Pauls, Hills Road
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.      
Number of places: 24

Yoga is the oldest physical discipline there is.  Yoga postures stretch, extend and flex the spine.  They exercise the muscles and joints, keeping the body strong and supple.  They also stimulate circulation, digestion, nervous and endocrine systems, keeping you healthy and energetic.  Relaxation and breathing reduce stress and put you in touch with your inner strength, particularly important as you grow older.  You will learn to let go of the stiffness and tension that inhibit movement.  We will include some simple massage to help you relax and unwind.  Wear loose stretchable clothing and bring a Yoga mat and thin blanket.  Designed for all abilities, but ask your doctor before you apply, and call Kate to discuss the class if you are new to Yoga.

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FIT 31: GENTLE BALLET MOVEMENT
Secretary: Sheila Farrant          
Day and time: Wednesday 10.00 - 11.00
Venue: St Columba's Hall, Downing Place
Terms: Autumn, possibly spring.      
Number of places: 12

This class will be taught by a qualified ballet and exercise teacher. Its aim is to offer a gentle, fun dance class that incorporates ballet exercises in a way that enables mature bodies to enjoy artistic movement safely. No previous ballet experience is necessary and the class open to all those who love dancing and moving to ballet music. Tracksuit /leggings and t shirt can be worn alongside ballet shoes or socks.
Note: Additional cost per member per term dependent on number of members attending.
12 members = £17
10 members = £20
8 members = £25

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FIT 32: WALKING FOR PLEASURE weekly group

As for FIT23 but weekly.

Weekly programme of walks

Weekly programme of walks - summer 2010


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FIT 33: Badminton for Fun
Organiser: Hazel Ashment Tel: 01954 200412
Day and time: Thursday 10.00 – 12.00
Venue: Kelsey Kerridge Sports Centre
Terms: Spring, summer
No of places: 12
This is a relaxed session for returners and beginners (for whom coaching is available at extra cost). It will not automatically be a passport to the other 2 badminton sessions but is an opportunity to exercise indoors and get rid of that Christmas excess. No need to play games unless you want to. Ability to laugh at yourself essential. Kelsey Kerridge charge only £2.30 entrance fee and provide the racquets so what are you waiting for?

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SWIMMING AT THE LEYS SCHOOL
Organiser: Greg Wren or Elaine Rose. 

The autumn term starts on Tuesday 15th September and ends on Thursday 3rd December with no planned breaks.  We plan to continue swimming on Tuesdays and Thursdays and continue the present flexible arrangements.  Members can swim on either Tuesday or Thursday and can change from week to week to suit themselves.  If a member misses a swim he or she can swim twice in a week to make up.  And this applies throughout the year. Note we can offer several vacancies for new members.  Enrol at the pool and pay the U3AC supervisors the fee (cheques to U3AC). 
There is no car parking available at the school.  The nearest free car park is at Lammas Land, near the river, 5 minutes walk.  Members take part at their own risk.  Neither the U3AC nor the Leys School accept responsibility for any accidents or loss of property.  And no-one may enter or remain in the pool building unless a school lifeguard is present. 
New members are offered a sample free swim, to see if the 25 metre pool and facilities suit them.  Our star Wednesday lecturer on modifying the effect of ageing stressed the importance of lung function and regular exercise.  Swimming scores very highly on both counts.
Note: Do not apply for this on your application form for classes. 

Prospective new members are advised to confirm the arrangements with the organiser.  You are invited to a free swimming session to see whether the 25 metre pool and facilities suit you.

 

 

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