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In collaboration with the University of Hertfordshire and Anglia Ruskin University, British Judo presents “Finding Your Feet”, a program designed to revolutionise how we approach falls among older adults.
Separate figures also show that falls are the number one reason older people are taken to A&E, with unaddressed fall hazards in homes costing the NHS in England an estimated £435 million, according to the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID); as one in three adults over 65 and half of people over 80 will have at least one fall a year according to the NHS.
Fragility fractures – which can occur from falling – also cost the UK an estimated £4.4 billion a year, according to the OHID.
The fear of falling breeds a vicious cycle—avoidance of activity leading to muscle deterioration, a decline in balance, and subsequently an increased likelihood of falls. This fear isn’t merely physical; it spirals into isolation and loneliness, impacting mental and physical well-being. It’s a poignant reality: the fear of falling directly correlates with the likelihood of falling.
Enter judo—the solution lying within the core of our sport. The essence of judo involves mastering the art of falling safely, an integral skill ingrained in its practice. “Finding Your Feet” leverages this fundamental aspect of judo to not only teach safer falling techniques but also to eradicate the fear associated with falls. Imagine a 45-minute session where participants embrace controlled falls 20-30 times—a transformational journey from fear to confidence.
But this isn’t just about teaching falls; it’s about weaving a tapestry of belongingness and community. Engaging in a “Finding Your Feet” class offers more than physical training—it fosters a sense of camaraderie, combating the pangs of loneliness often felt by older individuals. It’s a gateway to a better quality of life—one where fear dissipates, and living life to the fullest becomes the norm.
“Finding Your Feet” isn’t merely about teaching judo; it’s about imparting resilience, confidence, and vitality. It’s about reshaping the narrative around falls and empowering individuals to embrace life without fear.
Join us in this journey
A journey where coaching transcends sport and becomes a beacon of hope and transformation in the lives of our older community members. Become an accredited “Finding Your Feet” coach and pave the way for a future where falling isn’t a fear but an opportunity to rise stronger.
Together, let’s empower, let’s transform, and let’s help everyone find their feet, and stand tall with confidence.