Chair Exercise Programme Boosts Health and Community Wellbeing

A group of 6 ladies from a chair based exercise class. 3 are standing, 3 are sitting. They are smiling at the camera

December 9, 2025

The Chair Exercise Programme at St Mark’s Church, Barrow is an 8-week initiative designed to improve strength, mobility, and overall wellbeing among participants through low-impact, accessible movement. Delivered in a supportive community setting, the programme combines physical activity with social connection, contributing to both physical health and emotional wellbeing.

To ensure sustainability, two staff members from St Mark’s Church are undertaking a CIMSPA-accredited training course, funding from the reconditioning fund has enabled them to continue delivering the sessions independently beyond the initial funded period.

Programme Objectives

  • Improve strength, flexibility, and mobility through chair-based exercises.
  • Promote mental wellbeing through mindfulness and relaxation.
  • Foster social connection and reduce isolation.
  • Build local capacity by training staff to deliver sessions long-term.

Participant Feedback

The programme has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees, with many reporting both physical and emotional benefits:

  • Improved Body Awareness
    “I’ve started to feel muscles I didn’t know I had when we were doing quadricep extensions.”
  • Mental Wellbeing
    “I really loved the music at the end during the wellness part—it was so calming. This is the only time in the week I have an hour for myself to really concentrate on me. The five minutes at the end are especially beneficial.”
  • Functional Benefits
    “I’ve been practising the moves at home and it’s helping with my sciatica. I even incorporate calf raises while I’m washing the dishes.”
  • Accessibility and Familiarity
    “I like it because it’s similar to Tai Chi, but without having to remember all the different moves and routines.”
  • Social Connection
    “It’s a really nice social group. I like that the exercise is only 25–30 minutes and then we can have a cup of tea and a chat afterwards.”

Social Impact

Beyond physical health improvements, the programme has had a significant social impact:

  • Reduced Isolation: Participants report that the sessions are often the only dedicated time they have for themselves each week.
  • Community Building: The post-session social time fosters friendships and a sense of belonging.
  • Empowerment: The training of local staff ensures the programme is embedded within the community, empowering St Mark’s Church to continue supporting residents independently.

Sustainability

By investing in CIMSPA training for two staff members, the programme is building local capacity to deliver ongoing sessions. This approach ensures long-term impact and aligns with Active Cumbria’s goals of creating sustainable, community-led physical activity opportunities.