Build Strength, Improve Balance and Stay Active for Life

Lift & Laugh® is a unique functional fitness class created by Jo Gibson to help women build strength, improve balance and maintain confidence as they age.

Designed specifically for women aged 50+, these friendly small-group classes focus on real-life movement patterns that help make everyday activities easier, safer and more enjoyable.

Whether you're carrying shopping, climbing stairs, lifting grandchildren or simply wanting to stay independent and active,

Lift & Laugh® helps you move with confidence. Small classes. Expert guidance. Plenty of laughter.

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What Is Lift & Laugh®?

Lift & Laugh® is a functional fitness programme designed to help women develop the strength, balance, mobility and confidence needed for everyday life.

Unlike traditional gym workouts, functional fitness focuses on movements that support the activities we perform every day.

Each class includes exercises designed to improve:

✓ Strength

✓ Balance

✓ Coordination

✓ Mobility

✓ Flexibility

✓ Core stability

✓ Confidence

Classes are suitable for a wide range of fitness levels and exercises can be adapted where needed.

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Why Functional Fitness Matters After 50

As we get older, maintaining muscle strength and balance becomes increasingly important.

Regular functional fitness training can help support:

Strength for Everyday Tasks

From lifting shopping bags to gardening and household chores.

Better Balance

Helping reduce the risk of trips and falls.

Improved Mobility

Making movement feel easier and more comfortable.

Greater Independence

Supporting an active lifestyle for years to come.

Confidence

Helping you feel stronger, more capable and more resilient.

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Who Is Lift & Laugh® Suitable For? Lift & Laugh® is ideal for:

✓ Women aged 50+

✓ Beginners

✓ Women returning to exercise

✓ Active retirees

✓ Women wanting to improve strength and balance

✓ Those who dislike busy gyms

✓ Anyone looking for a supportive and welcoming fitness environment

No previous gym experience is required.

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Why Women Love Lift & Laugh®

Unlike large fitness classes, Lift & Laugh® is intentionally kept small.

Class sizes are limited to allow more individual support, encouragement and guidance.

Women often tell us they enjoy:

✓ Friendly atmosphere

✓ Supportive community

✓ Increased confidence

✓ Improved strength

✓ Better balance

✓ Greater energy levels

✓ Fun and laughter along the way

Many participants find that improvements made in class translate directly into everyday life.

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Created by Jo Gibson

Lift & Laugh® was created by Jo Gibson after seeing the growing need for fitness classes specifically designed

to support women as they age.

As a:

✓ NHS GP Exercise Referral Instructor

✓ Active IQ Level 2 Gym Instructor

✓ Older Adult Exercise Specialist

✓ Licensed Fitness Professional

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Jo understands the importance of safe, effective exercise that supports healthy ageing. Her mission is simple:

To help women stay strong, active and independent for as long as possible.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Lift & Laugh®

What is functional fitness?

Functional fitness focuses on exercises that improve the movements we use in everyday life.

Is Lift & Laugh® suitable for beginners?

Yes. Exercises can be adapted to suit different fitness levels.

Do I need to be fit before I start?

No. Many women join specifically because they want to improve their fitness.

Will I need to lift heavy weights?

No. Classes use a variety of equipment and exercises designed to build strength safely and progressively.

How many people are in each class?

Class sizes are deliberately kept small to allow more personalised support. Expect 10 lovely ladies.

Is Lift & Laugh® only for women over 50?

The programme is designed for women 50+, but younger women are also welcome.

Can functional fitness improve balance?

Yes. Improving balance is one of the key aims of the programme.

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Where are classes?

Classes currently take place in community spaces in Sussex:

Burgess Hill

Henfield

Southwick

Places are limited due to small class sizes.

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What Members Say...see more reviews on Google

"A wonderful well supervised small class where it's safe to exercise in fun company." - June Jenkins

"Functional Fitness, thoroughly enjoyed my sessions with Jo, they were very practical & fun. She’s a great fitness instructor. Highly recommend 🤩" - Julie Harding

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Ready to Feel Stronger?

Lift & Laugh® isn't about chasing perfection.

It's about building the strength, confidence and resilience to enjoy life to the fullest.

Join a welcoming community of women who are investing in their future health and wellbeing — one lift and one laugh at a time.