Balwyn Evergreen champions men’s health through mateship, movement and meaning

The Men's Exercise Class at Balwyn Evergreen is an important social outlet for the attendees.

MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate release

Date: June 2025

Balwyn Evergreen Centre, a community centre dedicated to ensuring that older individuals stay active, healthy, and socially connected, as well as championing men’s health, is highlighting its thriving men’s exercise group - a program designed to improve fitness, foster friendship and continued independence during Men’s Health Week (June 9-15).

Founded 13 years ago, the group was created in response to male clients dropping out of mixed exercise classes after just a few weeks. Since then, the dedicated men-only program has grown from four to more than 25 regular attendees.

For foundation member Barrie Dempster, now in his 80s, the class has delivered exactly what he hoped for when he joined: fitness, friendship and a sense of purpose in retirement.

“Exercising alone can be boring. However here, we work through all the major muscles with a professional trainer, including the legs, which are vital for getting out of a chair with ease,” Barrie said.

“Just as important as physical fitness is the companionship. Research shows friends have a stronger impact on mental alertness than family. After retirement, we need ways to stay connected and mentally sharp.”

Barrie, who lives in the Balwyn home he and his wife Jenny moved into 55 years ago, balances his exercise sessions with U3A classes, golf and crisis counselling - a role he finds “deeply satisfying”.

“I have come to believe that satisfaction in life is even more important than happiness,” he said.

“Helping someone through their darkest moment and hearing them laugh again by the end of a call is powerful.”

The men's group is coordinated by Raymond Kolesnikoff and led by a qualified fitness instructor, Tom Scott, where the exercises can be modified to individual capabilities.

Participants use resistance bands, hand weights and chi balls, in a guided routine that strengthens the whole body. However, the class’s real strength is what happens after the cooldown - morning tea!

“The social side is just as important as the workout,” said Raymond.

“It helps reduce isolation and builds friendships that keep the men coming back. We know physical health supports independence, but it also feeds mental wellbeing. If we can help older men stay confident, mobile and connected, we are enhancing their quality of life.”

Balwyn Evergreen Centre CEO Tina Hogarth-Clarke agrees, adding that targeted programs, such as the men’s exercise group, are critical for supporting longevity and resilience in older Australians.

“Our men’s exercise group is a brilliant example of maintaining connection, motivation and joy. It’s a weekly commitment that builds both strength and community.

"This Men’s Health Week, we want to remind older men that looking after your health can be as simple as showing up and sharing a cuppa after a few squats.”

The one-hour class is held every Thursday at 9:30am and welcomes newcomers of all fitness levels. To find out more about the exercise program, or Balwyn Evergreen in general, please contact the office on 9836 9681 or office@balwynevergreen.org.au.