Seated Chair Exercise
As we all know we are in such strange and difficult times at the moment. Some stranger and even more difficult for some more than others. But isn’t it great though that even in difficult times there are some who are constantly looking for ways to make some improvements to our current lifestyle. In many cases this involves thinking outside the box. And, of course, the really impressive thing is that some of these ideas are not just innovative, they are so helpful and beneficial to us all. Fair do’s, you have to take your hat off to those that take the time to come up with these great ideas. One such idea I have recently been taking a look at is online seated chair exercise sessions.
What’s that all about you may be saying? Well, worry not. All will be revealed below.
Seated Chair Exercise
I recently saw a post in a local forum that caught my eye. It mentioned a local (box ticked) service and it offers a way to get involved, get fit (or fitter!!), interact with others and have fun. In other words, something to help our lifestyle’s (another box ticked).
It involves taking part in something that is called “Seated Chair Exercise.” A local lady, Emma Fisher, is organising regular Friday sessions for you to get involved in. The sessions are run every Friday between 11am and 11.45am. And the great thing is, you can take part even during lockdown. So, no excuses. And to really put the cherry on the top, the sessions are FREE!!
Anyway, more details here below.
Seated Chair Exercise-Strengthening the Community Online
“Are you keen to move more and stay strong yet struggle with your mobility, or perhaps can’t get out of the house very easily? If so, a new format of chair-based exercise called Chatter Chairs may offer the perfect solution.
This innovative offering was originally started up by Emma Fisher, a Chester-based Personal Trainer who won a National Lottery Community grant in 2018 to fund the purchase of hand weights and resistance equipment. The aim is to offer exercises to improve strength, flexibility and coordination.
Emma’s focus on bringing together people in the community through offering a social form of group exercise was recognised by BrightLife who have supported Emma to expand across three different communities in Chester (Handbridge, Hoole and Vicars Cross).
Seated Chair Exercise For Both Men and Women
The sessions, which appeal to both men and women, have been a great success as they offer a friendly place to catch up and meet other local people keen to improve their physical health and wellbeing.
In addition to hand weights, Therabands and ankle weights are also used. This is to offset the natural decline of muscle mass as we age and as a results of a more sedentary lifestyle. Both these factors lead to an increase in falls, frailty and fractures in later life.
Her friendly and welcoming nature forms an important reason behind the growth of her classes. Also, the regular weekly participation has resulted in many new friendships being formed. With a help of a volunteer, she even offers a free cuppa at the end of the sessions!
The social and wellbeing aspect of her classes was recognised last October 2020 where she was awarded Winner of the Social Impact Award by the National Community Fitness Association and gained Runner-up status in the Community Impact project category, which recognises an instructor who has devised a project for community benefit using physical based activities.
Since Lockdown Last March
Since last March when lockdown began, Emma has successfully taken her classes online offering her regular weekly session via Zoom.
Unfortunately, due to technology limitations, many regulars have not been able to continue but many others have discovered the benefits of working out from home.
Great news too….a local mobility equipment supplier, Ross Care Ltd based in Ellesmere Port, were so keen to support such a community initiative that they have offered funding so all online sessions online can now be offered for FREE!
Sessions take place every Friday 11.00-11.45am and you can reserve your place at www.bookwhen.com/divafitness . Weights are optional but if you don’t have them, simply use a tin or water bottle instead.
Don’t be shy, do please come and try out a session! During times like these, its so important to improve your social connections and rebuild your strength.
Seated Chair Exercise-What A Great Idea
I don’t know about you folks, but I think this is a great idea. And, if you have access to **Zoom**, so easy to participate in. It certainly sounds easy enough. Simply moving from your sofa at 10.55am ish and merely stepping over to your dining room chair in readiness for 11am. If I had a leotard I might even try it myself. Joking apart, why not. It is for both men and women. And as I am creaking a bit at the seams, then something well worth considering.
Thanks for the heads up Emma. Let’s hope this really take off. And don’t forget that you can all be taking part as well after lockdown. So, an even better opportunity maybe. Take part in the comfort of your own home then when you are well used to the sessions, pop along to one of the venues after lockdown.
**Zoom** – in case you are wondering how to join a Zoom meeting, have a look at this simple guideline HERE.
Health and Wellbeing Blog Posts
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