Staying active in our golden years is important for better health and mobility but it needn't be anything too complex or strenuous. - Pexels
We hear it all the time from doctors and health and well-being experts: Physical activity is vital for our overall health. But this doesn’t need to be complex or intense. Walking has been found to offer numerous health benefits for older adults, both physically and mentally.
Studies show that regular walking can improve mobility, muscle strength, and balance, while also lowering the risk of chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain types of joint pain. Walking is especially beneficial for maintaining physical health without putting excessive strain on the body, making it a suitable exercise for older adults.
It is with this in mind that Amazing Seniors, an online platform form seniors, is organising it's inaugural "Walk-A-Breakfasthon": a 3KM and 5KM walk tailored for seniors, complemented by food stations providing healthy snacks along the route."The event is designed to address the growing demographic of seniors in Malaysia, who are projected to constitute 14% of the population by 2044. By encouraging physical activity and providing nutritional education, the Walk-A-Breakfasthon aims to mitigate the healthcare costs associated with an ageing population, while fostering a sense of community and inclusivity," explains Datin Jasmin Amirul Ghani, of the platform.
"We envisioned an event that would stand out from traditional walkathons, aiming to attract seniors who might not usually participate in sporting or fitness events," says Penny Low, who co-founded Amazing Seniors with Jasmin about three years ago to introduce a range of health and leisure activities and solutions for seniors. The Walk-A-Breakfasthon even will be part of the annual Amazing Seniors Festival (from 27-29th Sept) which has been ongoing for three years now."To make it more inviting, we introduced the concept of a 'breakfast' walkathon, where participants can enjoy breakfast snacks at various checkpoints along the route. We drew inspiration from the well-known Malaysian love for food, believing that offering food is a great motivator to get people out of the house. By incorporating this into the walkathon, we not only encourage participants to walk but also to enjoy socializing with others along the way," says Low.
There will also to prizes for the 'most creatively dressed' participants. - Pexels
Jasmin explains that the event is aimed at the growing demographic of seniors in Malaysia, who are projected to constitute 14% of the population by 2044. "By encouraging physical activity and providing nutritional education, we hope the walk can contribute to mitigating the healthcare costs associated with an aging population, while fostering a sense of community and inclusivity," she says.
"We hope this event will inspire seniors and their families to embrace a more active lifestyle and see the joy in staying fit and engaged with the community. By combining the walkathon with a fun and social atmosphere, we aim to break the stereotype that fitness events are only for the young or already active individuals. We want to create a welcoming environment that encourages everyone, especially seniors who may not typically participate in such activities, to take that first step towards better health and meaningful connections with others," says Jasmin. "Ultimately, we hope this event will spark a movement towards healthier, more connected communities," adds Low.The event has caught the attention of the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) who have given the event it's endorsement."We are proud to have the full support of the Ministry for this event, as they recognise the importance of promoting healthier and more active lifestyles among seniors. KBS shares our vision of encouraging older adults to engage in physical activities that not only improve their fitness but also enhance their overall well-being. Their endorsement underscores the significance of this initiative, and together, we aim to create an inclusive environment that empowers seniors to embrace healthy living, stay socially connected, and enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle at any age," says Jasmin.
About the event
Participants can choose to walk either 3km or 5km. The route starts and ends at Tropicana Gardens Mall in Petaling Jaya. "Participants need to be at the venue by 8am. There will be a warm-up session before we flag them off at 8.30am. They will follow the route – there would be numerous checkpoints along the way where they can grab snacks and drinks. There will be clear signs for the 3km route and also for the full 5km route (with added checkpoints for food/drinks)," says Low.
Participants will receive a goodie bag valued at RM100, along with an exclusive T-shirt, medal for their keepsake, and an e-certificate.
Although targetted at seniors, the Walk-A-Breakfasthon is open to people of all ages. However, adults aged 50 and above are entitled to a 50% discount off the “young adult” price. Groups of five or more are entitled to a 10% discount.To register, go to: https://cps4.me/walk-a-breakfasthon-2024.
Participants can collect their race kits (containing their t-shirt and bib) on Sept 27 and 28 at the Life Begins at 50 Seniors Festival Info Counter, located on the Concourse level at Tropicana Gardens Mall.
"Additionally, we are encouraging participants to come 'creatively dressed', as we will be awarding prizes for the most creatively dressed male and female and group too. We’re excited to see participants show off their fun, humorous, and interesting costumes, adding a playful and festive spirit to the event!" says Loh.For more information:
