The Search for Movement and Meaning
Ann Moritmor first joined MOVEability’s online classes during lockdown, seeking two things: a chance to exercise and some much-needed social connection. When she saw the classes advertised, she immediately jumped at the opportunity to try them.
She was instantly drawn to the flexibility MOVEability offers, particularly the fact that she could pay only for the classes she used. She now loves that she can easily switch between the Monday and Wednesday sessions to fit her schedule.
While Ann was fortunate that her husband, a retired computer engineer, could easily help her access the Zoom sessions, she knows others in her generation often struggle with the technology, particularly many in her village. Despite the initial hurdle and the lack of a local in-person MOVEability class – something she still hopes will change – she happily remains a regular online participant.
Ann believes her generation has “so much to offer in terms of life experience and wisdom“
Debbie leading an online exercise class
Ann enjoying a class favourite, the Hand Jive, during a Wednesday morning class.
The Missing Piece: Why Big Gyms Fail
Ann’s experience perfectly highlights the valuable service MOVEability provides for people like her. She contrasts her enjoyment with an attempt to use a well-known chain gym where a relative works. Ann recalls:
“I felt completely invisible. There was no one to help explain the equipment, and I didn’t feel that sense of connection or belonging that I get in Debbie’s classes. Not only that, but there was no music.”
Ann feels these large chains are missing a trick. Many people in her generation are motivated to stay active and age healthily due to increasing strains on health services, but traditional gyms often don’t make it easy. MOVEability, on the other hand, meets a crucial need.
The MOVEability Difference
Ann loves the online class environment and points to Debbie’s style of running the class as the central reason for her loyalty:
A Fun, Welcoming Atmosphere
The classes are known for their fun and welcoming atmosphere and a complete lack of judgement. Ann feels fully encouraged to go at her own pace and listen to her body. She also praises the uplifting music and the fact that “no one takes themselves too seriously – Debbie especially!”
This short video clip illustrates Ann’s points wonderfully.
Clarity, Authenticity, and Structure
Ann finds great comfort in the set structure of the exercises each week (a core element of The MOVEability Way), where the class is taken on a “journey up and down a hill”.
This clear progression helps her know what to expect and what she should be feeling, aided by Debbie’s regular check-ins.
Ann especially values Debbie’s authentic, down-to-earth approach.
“Debbie is so relatable. She’s authentic, and will make light when she slips up, as we all do. It’s a great reminder that we are all human.”
The Power of Mixed Communities
For Ann, the classes are about more than just physical movement; they are about community. She doesn’t want to be “type-cast” and loves that MOVEability classes are genuinely for all ages and abilities.
Ann demonstrates this passion for mixed generations in her own life by volunteering at her local Prospect Hospice charity shop, where she loves mixing with people of all ages and walks of life. She believes her generation has “so much to offer in terms of life experience and wisdom” and that multi-generational activity is key to healthy ageing.
The Vital Role of Self-Care Today
Ann’s perspective is deeply informed by her past career: she worked for many years as a an assistant social worker in a busy hospital.
She is acutely aware of how much things have changed regarding the availability of care offered to older people and those with long-term health conditions. This professional experience underpins a clear realisation: in today’s financially straightened times, we need to do more to preserve our own health.
This is precisely why classes like MOVEability’s are so valuable. The consistent, gentle movement is improving Ann’s flexibility, supporting her physical, mental, and emotional health, and ensuring she maintains both her mobility and her strong connection to the community – all essential measures for staying well and independent.
Thank You and Try Out a Class
Thank you, Ann, for sharing your experiences of our online classes.
Inspired by Ann? Why not try out one of our online classes. Sign up and BOOK here. First class is FREE!
If you have any questions or would like help signing up, please call Debbie on 0330 133 1488 or email info@moveability.org.uk. She will be more than happy to help.
If you represent a care home, we invite you to join our classes as a group. Find out more on our Care Homes page.
