As a longtime member of Westway Portobello Fitness Club, Patrick, a cancer survivor and advocate for active aging, demonstrates the profound mental and physical benefits of staying active well into one’s later years.
Everyone Active, which manages Westway Portobello Fitness Club in partnership with Westway Trust, is featuring Patrick's story as part of its ‘Age is Just a Number’ campaign. Running from October to November, the initiative aims to promote active lifestyles among seniors and challenge age-related stereotypes.
Patrick, who visits the gym three to four times each week, incorporates a blend of cardio and strength training to support his balance, mobility and overall fitness.
After a period away from the gym to care for his wife when she became ill, he reconnected with his fitness routine this year, finding it a vital source of resilience and peace amid personal loss.
“Exercise helps me both mentally and physically," says Patrick. "It gives me a sense of peace and purpose that I didn't have for a long time. Sometimes it's hard to get here, but once I arrive, I always leave feeling great."
The positive impact of exercise has also been felt physically, with Patrick noting a significant improvement in his longstanding knee issues. "My doctor said if the gym is helping, I don't need the knee replacement I had been considering.”
Beyond the physical benefits, the sense of community at Westway Portobello has been a vital source of support for Patrick. "The staff have been tremendously helpful, and I really enjoy the diverse community and interacting with people from all walks of life," he says.
Koroush Nikpour-Valiseh, Fitness Manager at Westway Portobello Fitness Club, said: "It has been a privilege for me to be part of Patrick’s journey as a member of the fitness team. He has courageously broken through various myths and faced numerous barriers to achieve his goals.
“Patrick has navigated many emotional and physical challenges along the way, which makes him an incredible role model for other senior members of our club. It’s a joy to be inspired by him and to support others who look up to him. His journey reminds us all what is possible with perseverance and determination."
Ian Ling, Everyone Active's contract manager, said: "Maintaining physical activity and keeping socially active is vitally important for older people in the local community. This campaign aims to inspire people to try a new activity or engage in simple exercises each week at home, helping people of all abilities discover the different ways they can enjoy exercise.
“Patrick's inspiring story serves as a shining example of how fitness can help older adults defy age-related stereotypes and unlock the physical, mental and social benefits of an active lifestyle.”
Local older people are encouraged to follow in Patrick's footsteps and explore the fitness opportunities available at Westway Portobello Fitness Club and other community facilities managed by Everyone Active.
By maintaining an active lifestyle, older adults can regain their strength, resilience, and sense of purpose, just as Patrick has.