Classes in spinal health will be available to participants of all ages, while classes in strength and balance will be aimed at seniors.

Held at CSU’s Community Engagement and Wellness Centre, the classes will run for one hour by a fourth-year physiotherapy student under the supervision of a clinical educator.  

Program coordinator Rebecca Piazza said the Smiling Spine classes were designed to address all the exercises one should do to maintain a healthy back.

“It is a stretching program improving your core strength with the use of floor-based Pilates exercises and Swiss balls,” she said.

Ms Piazza said the class would appeal to those from all walks of life and ages.

“People often assume that labourers are at the highest risk of back pain but office workers and more sedentary professions are just as likely,” she said. “It fits in well with students as well, who are studying and sitting a lot.”

Students will also help seniors who have previously fallen or suffer from muscle weakness, walking problems, or poor balance, in the Falls Prevention class.

Ms Piazza added the classes would provide practical experience for final year students as they prepared to embark on their careers.

“Many of our students are from rural backgrounds, and are likely to continue to care for those living in regional Australia,” she said.

“These community exercise groups are one way we educate and nurture these students in their role as health ambassadors.”

CSU school of community health head Megan Smith said students needed the experience of working with people in the community. “They need to know what to expect when they get out there and are actually working,” she said.

The classes will run from 11am to noon each Monday and cost $10 each.

To book contact the Community and Engagement Wellness Centre on 02 6051 9299 or email ahrecep@csu.edu.au