FROM 50 onwards, quality of life can become more and more dependent on mobility and strength.

The days of being a couch potato in older age are a thing of the past for many people.

In Warrington, fitness for this age group is taken very seriously, with a wide range of classes provided by the Borough Council.

Lynne Briggs, health and fitness manager with Golden Gates Leisure, said "The fitter you are, the better the quality of your life as you get older. Life expectancy is longer than it used to be. Older people want to be able to get on a plane and go abroad, play golf and bowls or go for walks. They want to be independent and live in their own houses. They will be able to do all these things for longer, the fitter they are."

The range of exercise classes specially designated for over 50s includes opportunities for swimming and dancing, and many of the classes which are not specially for older people still attract them, including yoga.

The age range of people attending many of the classes is 50 to 75. Said Lynne : "The government has recognised the impact the fitness industry can have in relieving the pressure on the health service and social services in helping to keep people independent for longer."

Classes for over 50s include : Warrington Baths, swimming, Mon and Fr, 12 to 1pm, Wed, 3 to 4pm, exercise class, Fri, 10 to 11pm; Woolston Leisure Centre, Exercise Club, Mon, 10 to 12 noon, Thurs, 9.30 to 11.30 am, swimming, Thurs, 10.30 to 12 noon; Birchwood Leisure and Tennis Complex, exercise class, Wed, 11 to 12 noon; Fordton Leisure Centre, squence dancing, Mon, 1.30 to 3.30pm; exercise class, Tues, 2 to 3pm, Fri, 9.45 to 10.45am; Sankey Leisure Centre, exercise class, Wed, 2 to 3pm. More information on 442043.