A Southampton charity shop is helping people rediscover the joy of movement.
The Age UK shop in Portswood is supporting the charity’s national Act Now, Age Better campaign, which encourages those in midlife to get active and embrace a healthier lifestyle as they grow older.
These efforts come in response to research from Age UK showing that negative experiences in PE classes have deterred millions of people aged 50 to 65 from being active in adulthood.
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The Age UK shop in Portswood. (Image: Google Street View)
Nikki, manager at the Age UK shop in Portswood, said: “Physical activity is one of the most impactful steps individuals can take to ensure a healthier future and a chance to maintain independence in later life – and we’re here to help people get started.
“From walking jackets and trainers, to comfortable leggings and leisurewear, weights or backpacks, our shop has a range of pre-loved items that can help people create stylish and functional fitness wardrobes.
“Not only will you be saving money and reducing waste, you’ll be helping raise vital funds for Age UK so that it can continue supporting older people across the country.”
Age UK’s network of more than 270 charity shops across the country offers affordable sportswear, fitness DVDs, books and accessories for those looking to begin their fitness journey or get back into exercise.
Funds raised support the charity’s services, including its telephone friendship service and The Silver Line Helpline.
Double Olympic champion Dame Kelly Holmes has thrown her support behind the campaign.
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Dame Kelly said: “The benefits of sport and exercise are endless.
“It’s about self-care, making new connections, feeling team spirit, supporting mental health, getting outside and feeling strong and capable for as long as possible.
“Age UK’s Act Now, Age Better campaign is a fantastic reminder of all those things and how important they can be for someone in midlife who is looking to increase their chances of living a better later life.”
The Portswood shop is also appealing for donations of good-quality sports and fitness gear.
Age UK shops promote reuse and recycling, with donations this year already saving 492,552 kilograms from landfill.