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. For further information see FIT 02. The cost is £2.30 per session payable at KKSC.
Note: Starts 1st 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 has run successfully for 8 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. Rackets are provided.
The cost is £2.30 per session, levied by KKSC.

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FIT 03: Dance - Circle Dance

Leader: Ursula Stubbings
Day and time: Monday 1.30 - 3.00
Venue: The Centre at St Pauls, Hills Road
Terms: Autumn, spring.
Number of places: 30
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: Dance - Gentle Ballet Movement

Secretary: Sheila Farrant
Day and time: Wednesday 10.00 - 11.00
Venue: St Columba's Church, Downing Place
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.
Number of places: 12
This class is 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 experience is necessary and the class is open to all who love dancing and moving to ballet music. Tracksuit leggings and T shirt can be worn alongside ballet shoes or socks.
Note: An additional class for new members in Autumn term (11am to 12noon) may be possible, given sufficient numbers, please contact the office if interested.
* There is an additional fee of £51 to pay for the tutor, payable on application.

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FIT 05:Dance - Scottish Country Dancing (Monday)

Tutor: Hazel Ashment
Day and time: Monday 11.00 - 1.00
Venue: The Refectory, Wesley Church, Christ's Pieces
Terms: Autumn, spring.
Number of places: 20
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.

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FIT 06: Dance - Scottish Country Dancing (Wednesday)

Tutor: Hazel Ashment
Day and time: Wednesday 2.00 - 4.00
Venue: Unitarian Church, Emmanuel Road
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.
Number of places: 20
Scottish dances can be challenging mentally and physically so if you think you are really fit, please join me and my lovely ladies. We have lots of fun and laughter too of course. Soft shoes and a drink are a necessity.

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FIT 07:Dance - Tap Dance

Co-ordinator: Gillian Adams
Day and time: Tuesday 2.00 - 3.00
Venue: St Columba's Church, Downing Place
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.
Number of places: 15
Previous experience of tap dancing is not necessary, but enthusiasm to learn and a reasonable level of fitness is needed. 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 £45, payable on application.

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FIT 08: Third Age Dance

Tutors: Maddy Tongue & Hazel Francomb
Day and time: Wednesday 11.00 - 12.00
Venue: St Andrew's Hall, Chesterton
Terms: Autumn, spring.
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 per term, starts 13th October.

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FIT 09: 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: 30
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:
6 September - 13 December 2010 not 25 October
10 January - 11 April 2011 not 21 February
9 May - 11 July 2010 not 30 May
* There is an additional fee of £36 to pay for the tutor, payable on application.

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FIT 10: 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: 30
As FIT 09. Please make a note of dates.
* There is an additional fee of £36 to pay for the tutor, payable on application.

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FIT 11: 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: 16
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 12: Moving with Ease: The Feldenkrais Method ®

Tutor: Susan Dillon
Day and time: Tuesday 11.15 - 12.15
Venue: Friends Meeting House, Jesus Lane
Terms: Autumn, spring, possibly 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 13: Rowing

Co-ordinator: Kate Merrington
Day and time: Wednesday 9.30 - 11.30
Venue: Lady Margaret Boathouse, Victoria Avenue
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.
Number of places: 12
The U3AC rowing class is part of Camrowers, a club which provides recreational, non-competitive rowing for pleasure and health. We provide rowing instruction by qualified coaches. St John's College kindly lets us use their facilities, which include changing rooms, showers and a place to have coffee. Each session starts with a warm-up on the indoor rowing machines. We then go down the river, mostly in single sculls. We use 'Virus' training boats. We also have larger coxed boats for 2 or 4 people. The only requirement is that you can swim 50 metres. There is a £1 Club membership fee plus £4 per session. We also make a one-off £10 charge to cover training. We meet thoughout the year, not just in term times with a phased start from mid September.

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FIT 14: 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 12th October.

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FIT 15: 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 12th October.

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FIT 16: Table Tennis 3

Co-ordinators: Lilas Davison Dieter Benziger & Allan Richford
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 playing table tennis. Bats and balls provided. Closed on Bank Holidays.
* There is an additional fee of £28 towards the cost of this venue, payable on application.

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FIT 17: Table Tennis 4

Leader: Peter Parmella
Co-ordinator: Hazel Ashment
Day and time: Friday 3.00 - 5.00
Venue: St Andrew's Hall, Chesterton
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.
Number of places: 30
If you've not played before you can't imagine what fun and laughter you are missing. Bats and balls are provided and instruction in the basics if necessary. Trainers without black soles please.

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FIT 18: T'ai Chi Chuan and Chi Kung Beginners Part 1

Tutor: Mike Tabrett
Day and time: Wednesday 9.30 - 10.30
Venue: Fenners Gallery, Kelsey Kerridge Sports Centre
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.
Number of places: 20
These arts, based on the healing, meditative and martial traditions of China are becoming increasingly recognised as ideal practises 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 and moving around for an hour; if you have any concerns about your ability to do this class or any particular health needs that you wish to discuss please contact the tutor to determine if this is the right class for you.
We will take a half-term break to coincide with local schools.
Dates:
13 October 2010 - 15 December, not 27 October
12 January 2011 - 23 March, not 23 February
27 April 2011 - 18 May
* There is an additional fee of £32 to pay for the tutor, payable on application.

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FIT 19: T'ai Chi Chuan and Chi Kung Beginners

Tutor: Mike Tabrett
Day and time: Wednesday 11.50 - 12.50
Venue: Fenners Gallery, 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 and moving around for an hour; if you have any concerns about your ability to do this class or any particular health needs that you wish to discuss please contact the tutor to determine if this is the right class for you.
As usual we will take half-term breaks to coincide with school terms.
See FIT 18 for dates.
* There is an additional fee of £32 to pay for the tutor, payable on application.

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FIT 20: T'ai Chi Chuan and Chi Kung Intermediate

Tutor: Mike Tabrett
Day and time: Wednesday 10.40 - 11.40
Venue: Fenners Gallery, Kelsey Kerridge Sports Centre
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.
Number of places: 30
This course will work with the whole of the Short Form and exercise programme to enable students to develop and deepen their practise. 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 18 for dates.
* There is an additional fee of £32 to pay for the tutor, payable on application.

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FIT 21: Walking - Easy Rambling

Organisers: Keith Dixon & John Bebbington & David Evans
Day and time: Alternate Thursdays 10.00 - 1.00
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.
Number of places: 56
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 2 ½ 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 30th 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 22:Walking - Gentle Walking Group

Co-ordinators: Penny Ainsworth & Ken Smith & Mark Moss
Day and time: Alternate Wednesdays 10.00 - 12.30
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.
Number of places: 18
These walks are designed for those who enjoy walking gently in the countryside for 3-4 miles. As far as possible walks will avoid stiles and paths difficult to negotiate. Walks will start within 15 miles of Cambridge at a village pub where lunch can be taken after the walk. Members are encouraged to lead a walk or be deputy leader of a walk and do a recce of the walk to be done the following week.

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FIT 23: Walking - Rambling

Organiser: Philip Shaw
Day and time: Thursday All Day
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer (all year)
Number of places: 100
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

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FIT 24: Walking - Very Short Walks Group

Co-ordinators: Judy Wilson & Barbara Tregear
Day and time: Alternate Thursdays 10.30 - 1.00
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.
Number of places: 25
This friendly 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 walks for 2½-3 miles, on routes within 10 miles of Cambridge as much as possible. We take it in turns in the year, singly or in pairs, to be leaders or deputies, who also do a recce the previous week, (with other members welcome to join them). People leading for the first time are offered suggestions on walk routes and as much or as little help as they feel they want from experienced leaders. Use of sticks, rainwear and strong footwear are recommended.
An optional pub lunch is normally arranged for the end of the walk. We exchange contact details so people can arrange to share transport with other members if they would like to. A £3 admin fee is payable at the beginning of the year.
A briefing meeting will be held on Thursday 7th October at 10.30 in Room 1, 27-28 Bridge Street - everyone is asked to attend. The first walk will be held on 14th October.

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FIT 25: Walking - 6 miles

Co-ordinator: Robin Turner
Day and time: Monday 9.50 - 12.40
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.
Number of places: 34
Walks will average 6 miles lasting about 2½ hours. We meet at a village pub within about 15 miles of Cambridge, where lunch can be taken. Additional walks outside official terms may be arranged, according to demand.
To enable car-sharing, addresses and contact details will be circulated. If you do not wish your address to be released to other members, please state this on your application form.

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FIT 26: Walking for Pleasure

Organiser: Philip Shaw
Day and time: Tuesday 10.00 - 2.00
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer (all year).
Number of places: 100
There will be a walk each week throughout the year. Walks will be between 5½ & 7 miles. Members can walk weekly or fortnightly. If numbers warrant it the group will be divided into two, a weekly group and a fortnightly group, providing I can find leader support. Appropriate clothing is sensible and a stick helpful. Walks start and end at a pub where lunch is available.
There will be a meeting on 7th September at 11.00 in Room 1, 27-28 Bridge Street to finalise organisation for the year. If you join please come. If you have email let the office know, it is most useful for organising the group.

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FIT 27: Yoga

Tutor: Pam Newman
Day and time: Thursday 11.00 - 12.30
Venue: Cottenham Community Centre
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.
Number of places: 12
Yoga is an ancient practice which helps the mind and body. We will practice a range of postures following the methods of B K S Iyengar, which lay emphasis on correct alignment, using props where necessary. This enables the practitioner to gain the maximum benefit while minimising the risk of injury. Each class will finish with relaxation.
Please wear loose, stretchy clothing and bare feet. Please bring a blanket and any yoga equipment you have.
N.B. This class is not suitable for people with certain medical conditions, including high blood pressure. Please contact the tutor before enrolling if in doubt. Also check with your doctor first if in doubt.

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FIT 28: 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 29: 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 30: Yoga: Thursday

Tutor: Julia Dale
Day and time: Thursday 10.30 - 12.00
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 31:Yoga and Relaxation 1

Tutor: Richard M Parker
Day and time: Wednesday 9.45 - 11.00
Venue: The Centre at St Paul's, Hills Road
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.
Number of places: 24
The word Yoga means 'union' or 'joining', thus the practices aim to integrate all the various aspects of one's being (the spiritual, mental and physical). The Yoga methods are a multi-dimensional approach, incorporating physical exercises, breathing techniques, diet, massage, relaxation, meditation and philosophy. The effects of Yoga practice are both curative and preventative and will be reflected not only in the body but also in the spirit and mind. There is no competition and Yoga acknowledges all differences in religion, culture and mental and physical health.

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FIT 32:Yoga and Relaxation 2

Tutor: Kate Grillet
Day and time: Wednesday 11.15 - 12.45 (arrive at 11am)
Venue: The Centre at St Paul's, Hills Road
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.
Number of places: 20
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 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 a thin blanket. Designed for all abilities but consult your doctor before you apply, and call Kate to discuss the class if you are new to Yoga.

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FIT 33: Dance - Gentle Ballet Movement

Secretary: Sheila Farrant
Day and time: Wednesday 11.00 - 12.00
Venue: St Columba's Church, Downing Place
Terms: Autumn
Number of places:12
Re: FIT 04. A second Gentle Ballet Movement class is being offered. This course will be open to members who have not previously attended the ballet class.

Cycling Club

Co-ordinator: Dick Wilson
Asst Co-ordinators: Peter Allen & Beth Morgan
Terms: Autumn, spring, summer.
The Cycling Club will be organised into riding groups ranging from 5 or 6 riders to considerably larger groups. All who sign up for this group will receive in August a list of groups, indicating their size, distances planned (some up to 15 miles or so and some longer, up to 25 miles or more), routes, days, times and frequency, start points, and whether they expect slow or fast cycling, and members can make their choice. Most will be round Cambridge but there will be suggestions about some further afield. There will be different programmes for people who prefer shorter, medium or long rides. If you would like to lead a group, or act as assistant leader, please let one of the coordinators know now. There is no limit on the total membership of the Club; some riding groups will have limits. Prospective members please notify the U3AC office, by email if possible.
Note: The Cycling Club does not need to be included as one of your choices on the application form.

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Swimming at the Leys School
Organiser: Greg Wren
At the date of printing (May) it has not been possible to finalise the booking arrangements for the Leys pool. Please see the Newsletter.

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