We know it’s important to be active as we get older, but it’s also vital to be social – to have community, people we look forward to seeing and connecting with over a shared activity or conversation.
For many in Saanich, those connections often come through the diverse array of programs at their community recreation centres.
Pickleball, for example, is a very social activity, and with a variety of sessions available at Commonwealth Place alone, not to mention those at Cedar Hill and Pearkes recreation centres, there’s a lot of fun and fitness to be had, notes Chris Filler, recreation programmer at Saanich Commonwealth Place.
“The players seem to leave a lot of time for ‘après pickleball,’” Chris says, with a smile, noting that at Commonwealth Place, Kattia’s Kitchen opens early to accommodate the players for their coffee time.
The inclusivity of the activity also makes it a popular option, especially with those who may not have had a lot of previous exposure to a group sport, Chris says, noting that a game typically features four players – two a-side – but during drop-in play, players sub in and out for different games, allowing for breaks as needed.
“There’s also an acceptance that lets people of different levels of experience and physical activity feel welcome. There doesn’t seem to be a hard line between beginner, intermediate and experienced players.”
That same adaptability and acceptance is also found in many of Saanich’s fitness programs, with instructors keen to demonstrate adaptations for those wanting an easier option or something more challenging. And with classes ranging from traditional low-impact and step aerobics classes to cycle classes and basic yoga, there’s lots to choose from!
Undertaken safely and following all health protocols, these programs have been key for many older adults looking to build connections in the community, perhaps after retirement or when other social connections have become more limited.
“This group is looking for an opportunity to get together – to be social, make friends and learn new activities,” Chris says, noting that right away you have a group of people with a common interest and shared experience you look forward to seeing.
And, with drop-in sports and fitness activities included in Saanich’s Continuous Access Pass, getting active and social is also very economical. Passes for adults up to age 59 are just $40 per month, while those age 60+ pay just $30 per month.
Beyond pickleball and fitness classes, the passes open the door to drop-in skating, swimming and waterfit, additional drop-in sports, the weight room and more. Valid at all four Saanich Recreation Centres, the pass auto-renews monthly, but can be stopped quickly and easily at any time.
“We’re excited to be able to find these opportunities for people to be active and to be social,” Chris says.
Click here to learn more about the Saanich Recreation Continuous Access Pass, or call or stop by any of Saanich’s four recreation centres.
