Bringing a dynamic rhythm to active ageing with Exercise Ball Drumming!
A dark overcast did not stop a group of 12 volunteers from coming together under the Age Well Alumni Network Programme for our first hands-on experience of “Exercise Ball Drumming.”
Partnering with Aspire55, we gained valuable insights on active ageing and its growing importance among Singapore’s ageing population, which is estimated to peak in 2028.
Following an informative session, Mr Kelvin Tan, Head of Programme in Gerontology and a partner in this initiative, led us through some introductory moves in Exercise Ball Drumming. He then guided us through a practice session set to various songs.
As everyone synchronised their drumming with the song “Rasa Sayang,” the heartbeats and enthusiasm of all participants warmed the air-conditioned room, despite the heavy rain outside. The harmonious drumming of exercise balls proved to be both soothing and fun. Moreover, this activity can be easily set up at home with just a chair, two sticks, and an exercise ball.
The one-hour session ended quickly, leaving everyone energised and satisfied after creating music together through drumming.
Ms Felicia Ong, an alumna with a Bachelor’s in Logistics and Supply Chain, Class of 2020, said she thoroughly enjoyed the session. She initially thought Exercise Ball Drumming would be easy but found it challenging to keep up with the rhythm while following the moves. Felicia added that she would like to practise more and eventually introduce it to her mother as a bonding activity and a way to stay active while ageing.
Another volunteer, Ms Alison Law, an alumna with a Bachelor’s in Business Studies, shared that this initiative is excellent for the ageing population. It encourages not only physical activity but also cognitive stimulation, as participants need to remember the moves and follow the music. She found the drumming exercise quite tiring due to the constant hitting of the exercise ball. Additionally, as this was the first practice session, she felt the duration was perfect for familiarising herself with the moves without becoming overwhelmed.
We also spoke with Mr Jack Lim, an alumnus with a Bachelor’s in Law, Class of 2020. He remarked, “The whole experience of this practice session was very positive and upbeat, as everyone was drumming together.” He also found the information on the ageing population extremely insightful, learning the importance of independence and the need to stay strong to enjoy life as we age.
The Age Well Alumni Network Programme and Aspire55’s collaboration provided an enriching experience for all participants. This initiative not only highlighted the benefits of staying active but also fostered a sense of community and support among the volunteers.
As Singapore’s population continues to age, initiatives like these will play a crucial role in ensuring that our seniors remain healthy, active, and engaged. The enthusiasm and positive feedback from participants underscore the importance of such initiatives in fostering a healthy, active ageing population. The success of this session has inspired many participants to continue practising Exercise Ball Drumming and to share this enjoyable activity with their loved ones.
