Hong Kong’s first Community Fitness Centre adopts a full set of HUR equipment
Article by the SMART Centre with modifications
Hong Kong population has the longest lifespan in the world with the life expectancy of aged 81 for male and aged 87 for female. However, the incidence of degenerative diseases such as stroke, cardiovascular disease and arthritis was also significantly growing in the last decade. According to studies from American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the degeneration of health and functional abilities is mainly related to sedentary lifestyles and lack of physical training activities (ACSM Position Stands, 2009 & 2011).
Hence, Tung Wah Group of Hospitals, one of the largest NGOs in Hong Kong, has started the operation of the SMART Centre (Special Multi-functional and Advanced Rehabilitation Training Centre) from 1 April 2014 with the aim of promoting and enhancing the concepts of “Exercise is Medicine” and “Lifelong Investment in Health” to the community, especially for the target group who reaching or above middle-age.
This is the first rehabilitative training centre in Hong Kong which has 11 sets of HUR professional equipment for exercise and rehabilitation. The HUR machines adapt the natural transmission resistance system, which provides optimal loading of muscles and reduces the joint pressure and muscle soreness after training. The incremental resistance adjustment can be set as low as 0.1 kg which is mostly suitable for the population with special needs, low initial fitness level and seniors. Besides, the computerized equipment has the capacity to assess the exercise heart rate, isometric muscle strength and functional balance. The smart system is able to record and control the exercise frequency as well as intensity which is ideal for exercise training and progression. Detailed physical assessment by physiotherapist will be done prior to exercise training for every members and training program will be implemented based on individual needs. The fitness instructor will guide the members and monitor the progress during exercise training sessions.
Apart from individual training, SMART Centre also provides physiotherapy services with advanced treatment equipments, health talks and variety of exercise classes which helps to develop the healthy community.
Quotes from members:
I am so happy to have such fitness centre which really fits for my needs and physical condition. (female service user, aged 45)After stroke, I was so frustrated and hopeless, now my affected limbs regains some control and my quality of life improves after training.（male service user, aged 65）
Location of SMART Centre: 9/F, Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Tai Tung Pui Social Service Building, 32 Tsing Sin Street, Tuen Mun, N.T., Hong Kong. Email：smartcentre@tungwah.org.hk
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/hksmartcentre
