Residents at Amberley Hall in King’s Lynn look forward to their regular chair-based exercise classes, led by Ben from Just4You Fitness. These engaging and fun sessions have become a highlight for many residents, offering a chance to stay active, socialise, and improve their wellbeing, all from the comfort of their chairs.
The beauty of the chair exercise sessions at Amberley Hall is their inclusivity. Whatever level of fitness or mobility residents may have, everyone can participate and enjoy the activities.
Ben’s approach is to make each session adaptable, ensuring that everyone can engage at their own pace and ability. For some, it may be a gentle introduction to regular movement, while for others, it could be a way to maintain their existing fitness levels.
These exercise routines are primarily based on Pilates, focusing on improving core strength, flexibility, motor skills and balance. Pilates exercises are known for their controlled, gentle movements, making them perfect for older adults who want to build strength without putting too much strain on their joints. Chair-based pilates is an excellent option for those who may have difficulty standing for long periods, as it offers the same benefits without the need for strenuous activity.
Amberley Hall hosts these chair exercise sessions every other week, giving residents the opportunity to exercise and maintain fitness all year round. The group setting not only promotes physical health but also fosters a sense of community and friends and family are always welcome to come along and join in.
Sharing the experience of a fun, interactive exercise class helps residents connect with one another, boosting their mood and encouraging social interaction.
During the sessions, Ben incorporates simple exercise tools like resistance bands and small exercise balls. These tools help residents engage different muscle groups, enhancing strength and flexibility. Resistance bands are particularly beneficial for building muscle strength in a safe and controlled manner, while the balls help improve coordination and dexterity. Together, they offer a great workout that is both gentle and effective.
Benefits of simple chair exercises for our residents:
1. Improved mobility and flexibility: Regular movement helps keep joints flexible, reducing stiffness and making daily activities easier to perform. Chair exercises can gently stretch and strengthen muscles, leading to better overall mobility.
2. Enhanced strength and balance: Strengthening exercises, even those performed while sitting, can build muscle and improve balance, which helps reduce the risk of falls.
3. Better circulation: Movement promotes good blood circulation, which is essential for maintaining overall health. Simple exercises can stimulate circulation, which can be particularly beneficial for those who spend much of their day seated.
4. Mental health and wellbeing: Physical activity releases endorphins, which can improve mood and reduce feelings of stress or anxiety.
5. Increased independence: Regular exercise helps older adults maintain the strength and flexibility needed to perform everyday tasks independently.
Incorporating chair exercises into daily or weekly routines offers a safe, effective, and enjoyable way for older adults to stay active. For the residents at Amberley Hall, the bi-weekly sessions with Ben have become part of their lives, bringing physical, mental, and social benefits.
