Telmay Dodd

U3A Manningham has six strength training courses. They are all extremely popular.

My name is Telmay Dodd and I am the Tutor for Strength Training Group F. I commenced U3A strength training classes over 20 years ago with Moira Axten as my tutor. Moira set up the strength training program at U3A Manningham and was a wonderful mentor. She trained me as one of her leaders (now called associate tutors). About 11 years ago, I was asked to take on the role of tutor at an additional venue. Ably supported by my reliable and well-trained associate tutors, I have been doing it ever since.

All the strength training tutors and associate tutors attend a workshop four times a year to review our programs and to ensure that we are providing classes that meet the needs of our participants.

Classes for Group F are held at the Scout Hall, Ted Ajani Centre. Unfortunately, we do not have the luxury of a temperature-controlled venue. At times we ‘swelter’ or ‘freeze’. On rare occasions, such as the first day back this year, we have had to cancel the class due to extreme temperatures.

We have a set program and follow stringent guidelines. We begin our session with an aerobic dance routine to warm up, followed by three arm exercises using weights. Then we continue with two leg exercises, also with weights, and follow with floor exercises targeting our abdominal muscles and backs. We always finish with a cool-down session. Every exercise incorporates a balance component, and I always remind the class of the importance of breathing and paying attention to the ‘core’ muscles.

In our class, we work in one group and instruct in unison. Working in one large circle, with the tutor and associate tutors forming an inner circle facing the participants, has proven to be successful for our class. This way we can provide adequate supervision and eliminate time wasting during changeovers. At times, when we have a full class, we work in two groups because of limited equipment.

At the end of each session, we relax and enjoy a chat and coffee at the Hub Cafe, which also supports the Ajani Community Centre.

Strength training class Group F, 2024

At the end of every year, and with the permission of the class, we have a group photo session. This is a lovely token for our members. The whole class enthusiastically enjoys our end-of-year luncheon at a nominated venue on the last class day of Term 4.

As with many of the physical classes at U3A, our strength training class improves our physical fitness and provides an opportunity for social interaction and bonding. Thank you to my leadership team and all the participants who front up twice a week and make our class such a rewarding experience.

Telmay Dodd
Tutor, Strength Training Group F