Established three years ago by Basketball Australia to get retired people moving more after covid, the free program is now run by the council at the Bruins Basketball Centre in Condell Park on Tuesdays, 10.15-11.45am (afterwards they head to lunch at Club Condell Park).
Last month they travelled to Castle Hill to take part in the second annual knockout with the Hills Association, joining teams from the Central Coast and the Illawarra, but were knocked out after three games.
Organiser Karen Armin-Grimm said they did well and their driver, who drove the free community bus, even acted as their scorer and plans to join the group when he retires soon.
A low-impact way to improve physical activity, Walking Basketball helps to maintain and improve health and decrease risk factors associated with sedentary behaviour.
Karen, 74, said some of the group have also joined Walking Football at Graf Park, Yagoona, on Fridays, 10-11.30am.
“Whether you played years ago, have never touched a ball or want to give something less strenuous a go, Walking Basketball could be for you,” she said.
“Our group has become very social and most weeks, we even meet up at Revesby Workers’ Club or Club Rivers for the trivia.”
Two other members Diane Noble and Norm Penman also can’t speak highly enough of the sport.
“I’ve got back and hip issues but it helps keep me mobile and supple, I can’t recommend it enough,” Diane said.
After suffering a stroke in 2021, Norm says Walking Basketball has been wonderful for his recovery.
“You get that movement back and we’ve all got aches and pains but we do what we can, it’s very easy yet worthwhile,” he said.
For further info, call Karen on 0408 262 238.
Seniors walk way in game of basketball
THEY’RE aged between 65 and 80 but a group of Walking Basketballers have plenty of bounce in their step thanks to their weekly practise sessions.
