SHEILA GILROY – CLUB MEMBER PROFILE
Sheila has been a member of the Rainbow Leisure Centre for nearly 20 years. She started as a gym member before joining our CLUB program 12 years ago through which she now enjoys a wide range of fitness and dance classes as well as a thriving social scene.
“I have always done some kind of exercise,” says Sheila, “and I definitely prefer something dance based as I like to move to music – it’s fun and you don’t have to be really brilliant to join in!” Luckily, Rainbow offers lots of different dance led classes, including two of Sheila’s favourites Tap and Dance Moves.
It’s Sheila’s can-do attitude that has kept her coming back. “I don’t worry if I can’t do it – I know I’ll get there in the end, I love the challenge of it.” And a large portion of our CLUB members agree. Currently there are 659 CLUB members participating in Walking Netball, Walking Football, Badminton, Short Mat Bowls, 55+ Water Workout, Tai Chi and much more with something for everyone every week day.
“Some people say they can’t do it and I encourage them to keep going. We also do a lot of laughing. Another draw to these classes is the people and instructors and as an ex-teacher, I know a good instructor when I see one. Charley is very good as she really cares about what she’s doing and Nancy from Dance Moves shows us what to do without any pressure – I don’t need any pressure at this stage in my life!”
The recently launched Dance Moves combines ballroom and latin steps, taking the lead from Strictly Come Dancing. Teacher Nancy ensures no one is rushed enabling participants to take their time in picking up the steps. “She’s so observant and sees if anyone is struggling and at the end of the class she’ll make sure she goes over that move and shows us again.” says Sheila. Along with having lots of fun, Sheila has also seen a great improvement in her overall health and fitness levels. “We definitely get a work out in this class. Every part of your body is working and you have to try and concentrate on your feet but I find it quite amusing trying to do the arms and legs together, Nancy is definitely someone to aspire to. The class is also good for concentration, memory and observation. I like that my brain is also being challenged and I think that what older people need to do is challenge their brain, try new things and don’t give up on it if you don’t get it right the first time.”
Sheila has also harboured a desire to learn tap dancing but due to the day-to-day pressures of life she didn’t manage to take it up until she retired. “I have been tap dancing for 12 years now and Gill is a fabulous teacher. She is committed and works us hard and it doesn’t matter if you don’t get it the first time, you’ll get there in the end.”
In addition to the classes and access to the gym, CLUB Lead Alison ensures there is a lively social side at the centre. With a dedicated area on the gym floor, CLUB members are able to grab a complimentary tea or coffee, relax and read a newspaper or catch up with friends before or after a class. “Alison is really lovely, she always addresses me by my name and she knows everyone else’s names too. If there are any problems she sorts them out immediately and she’s so friendly and genuine – she’s just the sort of person you need at the centre, she just cares.”
For Sheila, being a CLUB member is a way of life, “My motivation is to keep my brain active with classes and keep concentrating. I want to be fit for as long as I possibly can be. When I exercise my heart rate goes up, I’m using every part of my body along with weight bearing, memory, laughing and most importantly – having fun!”
To join our thriving CLUB at Rainbow Leisure Centre, speak to a member of our team in centre who will be happy to show you the facilities and talk through the membership or call us on 01372 727 277 to book an appointment that suits you. For more information visit CLUB at Rainbow